How an unexpected turn led to a rewarding career as an on-call firefighter

A chef has shared how an unexpected turn in his life led him to joining the service as an on-call firefighter, something which he describes as ‘one of the most rewarding things’ he’s ever experienced.

We are currently recruiting new on-call firefighters across Staffordshire, and we've spoken to Ben Watson, who juggles working as a chef with on-call shifts at Hanley Fire and Police Station.

Ben first joined the service around three years ago, after he graduated university with a degree in animation.

He said: “When I graduated, I was really struggling to break into the animation industry as the job market was really poor at the time.

“My bus into my part-time job as a chef was cancelled one day, so I walked past the station and noticed that they were hiring on-call firefighters.

“I felt like I had nothing to lose, so I took a chance on it, and it’s turned out to be one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done.

“I’ve now got a great career in the fire service alongside my job as a head chef in a restaurant, so everything’s worked out great despite the initial setback.”

Speaking about his experience of on-call so far, Ben says one of the best things about the role is being able to give back to the community.

Ben said: “For me personally, I’ve always wanted to make a positive impact on my surroundings and for me, helping my community is the most I can achieve on the scope of things.

“I’ve not been on-call for very long, but being able to be in the community and help people out is one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done, and it’s given me so much gratification.

“Sometimes young children come out and wave at the appliance as you go past and it’s so heartwarming, it’s just a great feeling.”

For Ben, another benefit of working on-call at Hanley is having access to the on-site gym, as he enjoys exercise and keeping fit.

Ben said: “I enjoy the fitness side of the role, but some people might not think they’re fit enough for the role.

“If people are finding it difficult I’ll come down to the station and help out with the bleep test, and if there’s something in particular that people are struggling with, we’re willing to practice with them.”

Anyone over the age of 18, who lives or works close to an on-call station can apply to become an on-call firefighter, and all applicants will go through the same recruitment and training process.

Hanley Fire and Police station is one location currently accepting applications for new on-call firefighters to join the crew. Speaking about this, Ben said: "I would encourage anyone considering on-call to just take a chance.

“The support you get through your training and in the role is amazing and I have great role-models at Hanley.

“It’s a great way to give back to your community, get to know new people and work as part of a team.

“It can be challenging, but we’re here to support people and it’s one of the most rewarding things you could ever commit to.”

Anyone that is interested in becoming an on-call firefighter at Hanley Police and Fire Station can also pop down to the station between 5pm and 7pm every Wednesday to meet the crew and find out more.

To apply, visit On-call firefighter recruitment.

Applications close on Wednesday 11 February.