In this episode, we celebrate the incredible achievements of firefighters who balance their demanding roles with extraordinary sporting challenges.

Join us as we hear from Mark Peart, who ran the London Marathon in full fire kit and breathing apparatus – setting a world record in the process - and Teresa Waplington, who shares her journey as a firefighter and athlete.

We also hear from firefighter Andy Mitchell, a contestant on TV show Gladiators, and Chief Fire Officer Mark Baxter who's truly leading by example with a personal challenge of his own.

Discover the motivations behind their fundraising efforts and how they inspire others in the fire services community.

Chapters:

(00:00) Intro

(03:07) Mark discusses appearing on SAS Who Dares Wins in 2018

(08:25) Mark discusses completing the London Marathon in full fire kit and under air

(16:46) Teresa Wapllington from Gloucestershire Fire Service discusses her fundraising and firefighter challenges

(19:51) Teresa has seen the difference the charity makes to her colleagues

(26:37) Teresa discusses completing a Burpees challenge in memory of Martyn Sadler and Jennie Logan

(33:07) Mark Baxter, Chief Fire Officer at Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue Service shares his fundraising and sporting achievements

(40:55) Mark talks through his training plan for the run

(46:38) Andy Mitchell shares how he has been in the fire service for 18 years

(49:47) Andy finds mental wellbeing benefits from regular exercise outside of the job

(51:30) Andy’s incredible appearance in the TV show Gladiators

Important links:

• Find out more about Fire Fighters Charity: www.firefighterscharity.org.uk.
• Seek support from Fire Fighters Charity: www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/need-help or call the Support Line directly on: 0800 3898820.
• Find out more about getting involved and fundraising opportunities: Get involved - Fire Fighters Charity
• Read Mark’s story: Firefighter’s record-breaking marathon in full breathing apparatus - Fire Fighters Charity
• Get in touch with the show by emailing: marketing@firefighterscharity.org.uk

Support the show

We’re back with another packed episode of our Shout! Podcast and this month we’re taking a closer look at some of our online support services, available to all of our fire family.

Our host, Rebecca, chats to some of our service users who have taken part in our HOPE (Help Overcome Problems Effectively) Programme, online counselling and digital physiotherapy sessions, while discussing the benefits of taking care of your wellbeing at every stage of your life.

Featuring heartfelt stories from Luke, Keith, and Ewan, we explore how online support pathways have made significant impacts on their wellbeing.

If these interviews resonate with you, remember our Support Line is always available: 0800 3898820. Be sure to follow or subscribe to the Shout!Podcast to stay updated with our latest episodes.

Chapters:

(00:00) We dive into the wide range of online support available to fire service personnel and their families

(01:10) Luke says he sought support after feeling low in the fire service

(16:26) Keith Shields shares how he was diagnosed with unstable angina after suffering from severe Covid

(25:41) Keith explains how the HOPE programme is aimed at improving mental wellbeing and reducing stress

(29:18) Ewan accessed physiotherapy sessions over video after suffering a back injury

(41:31) How he did a Reset Programme at Harcombe House

(44:12) How Ewan planned an epic fundraiser to raise money for us, through cold water therapy

Important links:

• Find out more about Fire Fighters Charity: www.firefighterscharity.org.uk.
• Seek support from Fire Fighters Charity: www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/need-help or call the Support Line directly on: 0800 3898820.
• Find out more about our mental health support: www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/how-we-can-help/mental-health
• Find out more about our HOPE Programme: www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/how-we-can-help/mental-health/hope-programme
• Watch Luke’s video: www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/case_study/luke-kavanagh
• Keith’s story: www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/case_study/keith-shields
• Ewan’s story: www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/case_study/ewan-diven
• Get in touch with the show by emailing: marketing@firefighterscharity.org.uk

Support the show

Support the show

In this month's episode of the Shout! Podcast, we're celebrating the incredible volunteers who are the heart of Fire Fighters Charity.

Join Rebecca as she shines a light on the wide range of volunteering opportunities available and explores the profound impact volunteering has – not just on our charity and its service users, but on the volunteers themselves.

Hear inspiring stories from volunteers and supporters who share their experiences of giving back and making a real difference.

🔗 Interested in volunteering? Find out more and apply today
🔗 Access support: Apply for our services

Episode Chapters

00:00 – Introduction
Rebecca welcomes listeners and introduces this month's focus on the power of volunteering.

01:15 – Exploring Volunteering Opportunities
Rebecca Webster, Organisational Development and People Partner, discusses the wide range of volunteering roles available, including visitor services and gardening support.

11:30 – Gardening for Wellbeing: Jonny Hincks' Story
Firefighter Jonny Hincks shares how gardening improved his mental wellbeing – and why he encourages others to volunteer outdoors.

20:10 – Visitor Services Volunteering at Jubilee House: Mike Harris' Experience
Retired firefighter Mike Harris reflects on his rewarding experience as a Visitor Services volunteer and the vital role volunteers play in welcoming service users.

27:00 – Fundraising and Volunteering in Scotland: Kayleigh McInnes' Journey
Watch Commander and Company Member, Kayleigh McInnes, talks about her fundraising efforts, volunteering roles and the community spirit she’s helped foster through her work.

31:00 – Final Thoughts and How to Get Involved
Rebecca rounds up the episode and shares how you can find out more about volunteering or tell your own story.

Key Takeaways

• Volunteering makes a real difference to the lives of fire and rescue service personnel and their families.
• Roles include visitor services, gardening, telephone befriending, and more.
• Volunteering can help you gain new skills, meet new people, and support your own wellbeing.
• Every volunteer contribution – big or small – is valued and celebrated.

Get Involved

Whether you have a few hours to spare or want to take on a regular role, your support means the world to us.
👉 Find your perfect volunteer role

Already volunteering or fundraising? We'd love to hear from you!
👉 Share your story

Need support for yourself or someone you know?
👉 Access our services

🎧 Don't miss an episode: Remember to rate, follow or subscribe on your usual podcast platform to stay up to date with the latest from Shout!

Support the show