Nearly 40 people came to our last meeting (as guests of Westminster Cathedral Inter Faith Group – thank you John Woodhouse & friends), representing nearly as many organisations from across the capital.  A discussion on the August riots and looting gave us much food for thought.

Dave Martin from the London Fire Brigade spoke of the service’s experiences during the disturbances.  The LFB is keen to get to know the communities it serves at local level.  Dave is working with local fire stations to offer local faith forums a chance to find out how the fire service works and the opportunities on offer.  Tea and cake at the station, and a chance to meet local firefighters, is on the menu.

There have been some distressing reports in the news recently of fires in family homes – knowing the local community is essential.

There are also employment opportunities (and it’s not all ladders and hosepipes – working with schools and visiting people at home is all part of the mix).  The LFB is keen to recruit from across our diverse communities.

At LBFN we have discussed the difficulties presented by the current design of breathing equipment – it doesn’t accommodate beards.  Working more closely with the LFB will bring home the importance of procuring more appropriate equipment.

Haringey and Lewisham faith forums are in touch with Dave about arranging visits to their local fire station.  If you would also like to explore how it might work in your borough, please get in touch.