A group of people referred by Truro Jobcentre Plus will be celebrating their achievements after completing a course run by Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service’s Phoenix Works team.

The course, which was developed by Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service (CFRS) and funded by Jobcentre Plus, aims to provide support and training to increase the employment opportunities of those who take part.

Referred by the local job centre, all participants were given the opportunity to gain an ASDAN level one qualification in Improving Own Learning and Performance together with the HeartStart accreditation in emergency life support techniques. The group also took part in a range of fire service activities to promote teamwork, communication skills, raise confidence and aspirations. Alongside this, the course includes fire and road safety advice, as well as train the trainer and presentation skills.

Throughout the course participants get the opportunity to learn and develop transferable skills through participating in fire and rescue service drills and activities. These skills can then be taken forward and put into practice when the group members meet local employers, support agencies and community groups to help the individuals to identify future employment, training or voluntary opportunities.

The group will attend a presentation event at Perranporth Community Fire Station at 1.45 pm on Friday, August 15.

CFRS Chief Fire Officer Des Tidbury said: “I am encouraged to see how Phoenix Works team has been able to use the work and reputation of the fire and rescue service to help this group of people develop useful new skills.”