Date: 16th September, 2026
A group of Bournemouth-based firefighters have been recognised for the work they have been doing to support young people.
White Watch at Redhill Park fire station were presented with the Fire and Rescue Authority Making a Difference Award at the Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service annual awards ceremony held in Salisbury on 12 September.
Watch Manager Liam Diffey originally came up with the idea of holding interventions with young teenagers who may need additional guidance when choosing their direction in life.
Wanting to make a difference to young people in local deprived areas, he used the positive reputation of the fire and rescue service to speak with special educational needs workers and school career advisors to offer his support in providing positive role models to these children.
Supported by his watch, this started with a fire station visit for twelve teenagers who had not been able to secure work experience through their schools. This was not solely about highlighting the Fire Service as a career path but also instilling key attributes that can be taken into any workplace, such as presentation, positivity, hard work and self-reflection.
This was then followed with a visit to a second school, presenting to a cohort of 15 different children, all with struggles in the school environment, and most with troubles from a difficult upbringing.
The overwhelmingly positive feeling during each session, and the feedback received since, demonstrated an incredibly positive impact on two groups of impressionable young people.
This proactive work with local schools by White Watch Redhill Park continues to support pupils whose personal circumstances are influencing their ability to make positive life choices.
Assistant Chief Fire Officer Dave Waters said: “An example would be the visit of two small groups of 14-year-old boys, identified as vulnerable to harmful misogynistic influences, who came to the station for a structured morning of engagement. This was not a routine school visit, it was thoughtful, targeted early intervention.
“Using realistic, hands-on activities, the Watch demonstrated the realities of firefighting, teamwork, accountability, respect and trust under pressure. They modelled professionalism and positive masculinity without preaching. They challenged attitudes calmly and confidently, creating space for reflection rather than confrontation.”
Cllr Clare Weight, Chair of the Fire and Rescue Authority; Cllr Paul Oatway, Vice-Chair; and Brett Skelton, National Account Manager at award sponsor Fireblitz, presented certificates to Liam Diffey, Jason Bethell, James Everett, Chris Alcott, Paul Curran, John Pittwood, Alex Thompson and Ethan Tucker.
Cllr Weight said: “It was an honour to present this award on behalf of the Fire and Rescue Authority. White Watch at Redhill Park fire station have made a tangible difference to young people in their community. Just as importantly, they have strengthened trust in the Service and demonstrated our values in a way that feels authentic, visible and lasting.
“Their sustained engagement has opened doors for further collaboration and improved communication around prevention and safeguarding opportunities. Pupils, families and school staff benefit from seeing firefighters as accessible role models who genuinely care about their future.”
Brett Skelton said: “It was a pleasure to attend and sponsor the Dorset & Wiltshire annual Service awards, the afternoon and atmosphere was excellent and vibrant, and it was great seeing the dedication and courage shown by those who had received their awards. They are a great credit to the Service.”