Find out how The Fire Fighters Charity has supported beneficiaries across the UK and how you can share your story with the fire community. Click categories or regions below to filter the list of stories.
Colin Speight tragically died by suicide in December 2021, at the age of 47. Now, two of his closest friends and colleagues join his mum and step-dad in remembering him – and share their separate coping mechanisms after his death. Alan Simcox was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in February 2023 following years of symptoms he couldn’t explain – to the point his mental health was impacted. Here, he shares his story… Scottish firefighter David Gartland began struggling with his mental health following a relationship breakdown, resulting in him heavily drinking and gambling. He says getting in touch with us as soon as he realised he needed help was the best thing he could have done. Firefighter Rachel Streeting, from Warwickshire FRS, received our support following a back injury which she feared could end her career on operational duty – and she says we helped her mental health, as well as physical. Paul Yates is taking on the 2023 London Marathon in memory of his partner Cathy’s brother, Andy Moore, who passed away in 2020. Paul now hopes to raise awareness of the mental health support we offer.
Gordon & John: “Our friend took his own life – now we’re determined to continue his legacy”
Alan: “I climbed Scafell Pike after I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s as a thank you for your support”
David: “I was hiding from the world and isolating myself – the Charity was a lifeline”
Rachel: “You helped me gain the mental confidence to carry my job out after recovery”
Cathy and Paul: “My firefighter brother took his own life – this challenge is a tribute to him”
