THE highly popular and successful Fire Cadet Scheme in Stanhope is to end in a few weeks’ time with the young people and their parents very upset at the news.
The scheme, introduced in 2017, provides fire service training for 13-17 year-olds and is in operation around the county. Many boys and girls have taken up the challenge over the years and enjoyed all that the opportunity involved, working alongside fire-fighters and learning the basics and more.
One of the parents in Stanhope said, “We were told that the Fire Cadets programme has been defunded and will end in July. We are devastated, as is our son who really enjoys being a part of it.
“While I accept that money in Local Government is tight, it has always been tight and this is another cut to rural opportunities for young people who will now lose this chance to experience the world of work close to home.
“He has developed skills and being a Cadet has built his confidence. This is the perfect example of death by a thousand cuts, especially in rural areas like Stanhope.”
The Gazette contacted the Fire Brigade and received the following statement:
A spokesperson for County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) said: “Following a comprehensive review, we have made the difficult decision to bring the Fire Cadets programme to a close, with activities continuing until the start of the school summer holidays in July.
“Our focus, and the expectation of our communities, is to prioritise our limited resources and funding towards keeping fire engines available to respond to emergencies and meet our legal duties.
“We recognise the young people involved value the Fire Cadet programme and we understand this news is disappointing.
“We are working with those affected to offer support.”
