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.
Dougie Naismith was injured in the Clutha Vaults helicopter crash in 2013 and his daughter, Eilidh, says the mental impact it had on him never left him before his tragic suicide. Here, she shares their story… Susan Currie has visited Jubilee House twice, firstly with her firefighter husband, Hugh, and their children and again with her family while her mother-in-law received nursing support. 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. Scottish Crew Commander Ewan Diven took on a huge challenge in 2023 of 365 cold water therapy dips, to raise funds for us and spread the word about how our support helped him. They’re there for us at the end of the phone when we need them, but many may not be aware of the mental toll working in Control Rooms can have. Here, Melanie Gibb shares why having our support available is essential for her and her colleagues.
Eilidh: “My firefighter dad took his own life – having support available for families is vital”
Susan: “We were privileged to use this outstanding facility at a time when we really needed it”
Gordon & John: “Our friend took his own life – now we’re determined to continue his legacy”
Ewan: “I wish I’d got in touch sooner than I did, it’s never too early… it changed my life”
Melanie: “Control has exceptionally high stress levels – the Charity is more important than ever”
