Salamander
Salamander is a tailored development programme designed to promote empowerment in a positive environment whilst also encouraging team work and the supporting of others.
The primary aim of Salamander is to work with young people in Swindon and Wiltshire and provide them with experiences that will help them to learn new life skills and gain confidence. However, in recent years, we have expanded our remit and now work with a variety of organisations across the public, voluntary and private sectors to deliver courses to adults too.
Our key objectives are to:
- Establish links with the community and partner organisations.
- Deliver a series of messages regarding fire, road and water safety.
- Enhance the image of the Fire and Rescue Service within the community.
- Encourage a more diverse range of people from disadvantaged backgrounds to develop self-esteem and confidence in their ability to achieve more than they thought they could.
Who is Salamander for?
We work with a number of partner organisations to ensure we are targeting those individuals who will benefit most from this unique experience. In recent years we have worked with several organisations, including local Schools, Job Centre Plus, Young Carers, Swindon Borough Council and the Swindon Down’s Syndrome Group.
What can I expect from a Salamander course?
The course can vary in length, depending on the requirements of the client. Courses can also include nationally recognised certificates in first aid, health & safety and food safety.
Below are examples of the activities available:
- Hydrants and pumping water
- Safe use of ladders
- Rope rescue (abseiling)
- Road traffic collision extrication
- Search and rescue
- Casualty and trauma care
- Water rescue
- Road safety
Where is Salamander held?
Salamander is held at designated fire stations and courses are run by fully trained, operational firefighters who work hard to share their knowledge and skills with the young people and provide positive role models for them. Our primary Salamander stations are Trowbridge, Chippenham, Salisbury and Swindon.
What are the benefits of the programme?
The benefits of Salamander differ depending on the client group. However, the primary aim is to provide an experience based on the core ethics of the Fire and Rescue Service, as this encourages self-confidence and improved teamwork.
The programme is designed to change each participant’s attitude and behaviour by challenging them to:
- Adopt a new set of values;
- Address consequences of anti-social behaviour and fire setting;
- Co-operate with others;
- See the advantage of improving their own learning and performance;
- Gain self-esteem and self-confidence; and
- Improve their communication skills.
For more information on Salamander courses, please contact our Youth Intervention Coordinator’s:
Wiltshire – Christine Sharma – [email protected] or call 07771 594981
Swindon – Nicky Parker – [email protected] or call 07771 773725
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