First cohort of Blue Lights Brigade volunteers getting started

The Blue Lights Brigade project launched in late summer 2017 after receiving funding from Big Lottery. VANEL delivers the project which is led by Steve Lynn and this unique volunteering scheme operates across North East Lincolnshire.

The concept for the project was born from the personal experience of a retiring police officer who lost a former close colleague who took his own life after he left the service.

So, recognising that there is a gap that exists between retirement and the need for community volunteers, Blue Lights Brigade (BLB) sits as a pathway that supports those retiring from the emergency services with the opportunities to get involved with volunteering. Those who possess exceptional life experiences are able to volunteer in numerous unique ways to make a real difference enhancing their communities.

Part of the project was to provide each volunteer with accredited training introducing them to the skills of volunteering. The Lincolnshire Volunteer Card (LVC) has been adopted by VANEL to train up all of those joining the BLB scheme.

In early September the first cohort of 12 volunteers were trained under the BLB version of LVC and they are pictured below receiving their certificates at West Marsh Community Centre.

Further training has been set for late Autumn for the next volunteers – such is the interest that has already been generated in BLB.

Some of the initial volunteers have already got started into their roles. Volunteering opportunities have included working with the visually impaired, working with environmental organisations and supporting the maintenance of Beach Hut No. 9 down in Cleethorpes.

The Blue Lights Brigade is already gathering attention from statutory authorities and it is envisaged that the scheme will expand and grow to operate further afield than North East Lincolnshire. As we reported recently it has already gained additional support from the Tribune Trust to keep the project underway.

If you’re interested in the scheme then there is more introductory information here and you can get in touch with Steve Lynn directly to have a conversation. Use 01472 240707 or steven@vanel.org.uk.