Award for firefighter for helping children stay safe

As Project Manager at East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, Dave Amiet takes football out to youngsters at local events in Battle, Rye and beyond and teams this up with life-saving safety advice.

The programme has gone from strength to strength and has the support West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service and Brighton and Hove Albion Football Club.

This unique project delivers fire, road and safety messages through the medium of football.

This successful project is all down to Dave’s idea of ‘Coaching for a Safer Community’ to reduce the number of fire deaths and injuries across Sussex, as well as reducing the number of people killed and injured through road traffic collisions.

It is achieved by working with parents, carers, schools, colleges, coaches and other partners, all helping to develop life-long safe and responsible behaviour.

Although the project is delivered in a fun and practical way it opens discussions with the players covering issues relating to their fire and road safety.

Coaching sessions are designed to use the power of football to educate young people.

Through the sessions they are given the tools and knowledge to be able to use assertiveness to resist unhelpful peer pressure and be aware of their personal qualities, achievements and potential.

Following the award Dave said: “I’m delighted to be presented with the Barclays Community Sports Award.

“It feels great to have the work we do on the ‘Coaching for a Safer Community’ programme recognised.

“It’s all about getting young people playing, but staying safe.

“The most important part of what we’re doing is saving lives and it makes it all the more rewarding knowing that we have made a difference.”

Former footballer and manager Gareth Southgate, lead judge on the awards panel, said on presenting the award: “David’s dedication is really inspiring.

“He has recognised the impact football can have on young people’s lives and has used the sport as a platform to communicate important messages in a fun and engaging way.”