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SkillZONE celebrates community organisation award for staff and volunteers

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SkillZONE’s early intervention work has been recognised with an award at The Forest Volunteer Awards.
Chief Fire Officer, Mark Preece, SkillZONE Manager, Madeleine Jarrett and volunteers Keith, Mike and Sue holding award at The Forest Volunteer Awards.

The Forest Volunteer Awards, celebrating the outstanding contributions of volunteers in the Forest of Dean, took place on October 3. SkillZONE came home with the "Community Organisation of the Year" award. Chief Fire Officer, Mark Preece, SkillZONE Manager, Madeleine Jarrett and volunteers Keith, Mike and Sue were in attendance.

This award recognises the outstanding contribution of organisations in the Forest of Dean who have made a positive change through delivering community projects in the district.

SkillZONE, a safety centre under Gloucestershire Fire & Rescue Service based in Tuffley, Gloucester, offers an interactive, life-sized indoor village with distinct zones designed to empower individuals in recognising and navigating potentially dangerous scenarios. SkillZONE's prevention messages provide visitors with the knowledge and skills needed to prioritise safety. You can find out more about the facility here.

The dedicated team of staff and volunteers at SkillZONE work proactively to address youth violence and anti-social behaviour in the Forest of Dean. This work includes an early intervention programme, ‘FiredUP!’, designed to empower young individuals aged eight to 18. It offers lifelong learning opportunities, community engagement, and strives to create lasting impressions that empower young individuals to create positive change in their neighbourhoods.

They also ran "Choices and Consequences" school assemblies addressing issues like arson and hoax calls. These early interventions, led by SkillZONE staff and volunteers, have made a positive impact on behavioural change and a reduction of arson related incidents.

Photo: Chief Fire Officer, Mark Preece, SkillZONE Manager, Madeleine Jarrett and volunteers Keith, Mike and Sue holding award at The Forest Volunteer Awards.