Five new apprentices join Essex fire service in landmark prevention roles

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service (ECFRS) has welcomed its first ever apprentice prevention officers – five recruits who are already making a tangible impact in communities across the county.

Based in Southend, Basildon, Harlow, Colchester and Clacton, the new officers are carrying out home safety visits, fitting smoke alarms, and signposting residents to essential health and wellbeing services. The roles are part of a pioneering 18-month apprenticeship scheme that blends on-the-job training with a Level 3 qualification in Community Health and Wellbeing.

The initiative is designed not only to strengthen the service’s prevention work but also to open up a new pathway into the fire and rescue profession. Apprentices are being trained to tackle wider health challenges – from smoking and falls to social isolation – linking fire safety with public health outcomes.

Two of the posts have been part-funded through the NHS North East Essex Health and Wellbeing Alliance Age Well fund, underlining a shared commitment to helping older residents live independently and safely at home.

In their own words

The recruits have spoken of their pride in being the first to take on these trail-blazing roles.

• Evie Wilson, Colchester, said she finds the work “rewarding” and values the opportunity to learn while making people safer in their homes.
• Penny Thompson, Clacton, highlighted the practical training, adding that being out in the community from day one had been “the best way to learn.”
• Jade O’Neill, Southend, said she is proud to be part of a role that not only involves fitting smoke alarms but also connecting people with vital support services, from occupational therapy to social care.
• Ashley Adams, Harlow, whose family has a long history in the fire service, described the apprenticeship as a chance to “follow in their footsteps” and make a positive impact.
• Elliot Rogers, Basildon, said he was honoured to be trusted with responsibility early on and described the scheme as “a fantastic first step” towards a career in the fire service.

Investing in people and partnerships

Andrea MacAlister, Head of Prevention at ECFRS, described the scheme as a “landmark moment” for both the service and the communities it serves.

“Our apprentice prevention officers are already supporting residents to live more safely and independently at home, while gaining the skills and qualifications to build a fantastic career for themselves in the future,” she said. “This scheme is about investing in local people, opening doors to future careers, and keeping Essex safe for generations to come.”

Over the next 18 months, the apprentices will work alongside operational crews, Safe and Well officers, and partner organisations to gain experience in collaborative and multi-agency prevention work. The service hopes the initiative will set a precedent for how prevention and health partnerships can be delivered in the years ahead.

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