Ever dreamed of a career as a firefighter?
Now is your chance, as Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS) embarks on its biggest recruitment campaign to date.
Anyone over the age of 18 is being urged to apply as the service searches for new recruits from a diverse range of backgrounds.
TWFRS Assistant Chief Fire Officer Lynsey McVay said being a firefighter is a "fantastic career" as she announced that applications are now open.
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"We are looking for the broadest, most diverse, range of people that we can get," Lynsey, 43, said.
"We absolutely want the best people for the job and will never compromise on standards, but we absolutely recognise the value that diversity brings.
"It is not about quotas but we don't want anyone to think there is any barrier because of their gender, race, sexuality, or religion.
"We want everyone to consider a career in the fire and rescue service.
"We are looking for people who have had some life experience, who come from different backgrounds and are really committed to helping their community.
"We want people who are real team players, as a massive part of being a firefighter is working as part of a team."
New firefighters could be based at any of the 16 fire stations across TWFRS including Newcastle, Sunderland, North Tyneside and South Tyneside.
They will work a shift pattern of two days, two nights and four days off, earning £24,191, rising to £32,244 after three years.
"That ability to influence the outcome when people are in their darkest hour, being able to help them and hopefully, provide the support they need [is the best part of the job]," Lynsey said.
"You do go to some traumatic incidents, but ultimately none of that is your fault.
"You are there to try and make that situation better and to help that individual and potentially save their life.
"That reward you get when you know you have saved someone's life or contributed towards saving someone's life, alongside paramedics and police, you can't measure that. It's an amazing feeling."
After applying online, candidates who meet the criteria will progress to remote online testing, with those successful at that stage sitting their test again in a supervised environment.
Top performers will then have to pass a fitness 'bleep test', before undergoing an interview and medical.
Those who pass that stage will then be offered a place on a 12 week training course, with one due to take place this autumn and one in early 2023.
"Fitness is a big part of a firefighter's role," Lynsey said.
"You don't have to be superhuman to pass the fitness test, you just have to have a good level of fitness."
She continued: "People absolutely love the training course.
"They find it difficult at first and we don't make excuses for that, but we provide all of the help and support to get you through the course."
The deadline for applications is March 20. To apply visit the TWFRS recruitment page at: https://www.twfire.gov.uk/work-for-us/our-roles/apply-to-be-a-firefighter/
