When he describes what it’s like working in the fire service, Paddy Quinn says it truly is a vocation: “It’s in your heart – you just want to help people, whether it’s their worst day or not. It’s not about ego or gratification, just kindness and respect.”
He has done so for many years in Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, initially as an on-call firefighter before moving to wholetime and then becoming a temporary Group Commander.
However, while Paddy says the job brings incredible pride and enjoyment, it’s not without its challenges. And for many, noticing the impact of difficult shouts or the pressures of the job can be hard.
“I work a lot with trainees around stress management, and how different shouts can affect people in different ways,” says Paddy. “One incident might remind someone of their childhood, another might spark deep empathy, or even a sense of survivor’s guilt – feeling thankful it’s not someone they know.
“I’ve had many incidents like that myself, and that’s what led me to Fire Fighters Charity’s HOPE Programme.”
Our HOPE Programme is an online mental wellbeing programme designed to help anyone who feels they’d benefit from a boost to their wellbeing during a time of change or uncertainty, however big or small.
“I wanted to try it to see if it was something I’d recommend to others,” Paddy says. “I didn’t think I needed it – but I was curious.
“There are people who know they need help, and a lot of people who don’t. I was one of them. Even if you’re unsure or don’t think it’s for you, I can guarantee you’ll find something beneficial in it.
“Learning about positive stress and mindfulness was really interesting, but what I valued most was the social side – talking to people and sharing experiences.”
Paddy says he’s spent his career trying to help other people, and it wasn’t until he did the programme that he realised he’d also benefit from support himself.
“In Northern Ireland, we’ve seen a lot of difficult things, and in a rural community it can feel very close to home,” he adds. “You can never predict which shout will stay with you.”
Paddy has since become a volunteer facilitator on it, to help others taking part.
“I was one of the first volunteers to take on the role and it’s brilliant. I can empathise with a lot of people doing the programme, and I find myself opening up to them too,” he says. “If you’re having a bad day and feeling on your own, seeing that others feel the same can really help. That’s not shameful – it’s just life. And if you’re open about it, others will be too.”
If you feel you’d benefit from our health and wellbeing support, you can call our Support Line on 0800 389 8820, make an enquiry online or click below: