By HFRS celebrate 5 years of ‘Word Counts’ initiative for North Lincolnshire children!
Humberside Fire and Rescue Service (HFRS) are celebrating 5 incredible years of their ‘Word Counts’ initiative in collaboration with the North Lincolnshire Council.
Word Counts, an initiative aimed to increase literacy skills for children in our community, was set up in 2016 by HFRS and supported by North Lincolnshire Council.
Jason Frary, Community Safety Preparedness Manager, realised the fire service could spark a new partnership with local educational facilities to encourage children to retain and increase their literacy skills, saying:
“Education is incredibly important for children and by taking time out to read and interact, not only does this benefit their education it also gives them a positive role model.
“We even won a community award in 2018, for our outstanding contribution to a learning community.”
In their celebratory statement, the service proudly confirmed they have supported 15 schools since the initiative has been running, adding:
“Every two weeks our firefighters read to the children and play scanning games.
“By doing this not only does this allow for positive role models, but it also helps drive recruitment. It is also the longest partnership the Service has had.”
Cllr Julie Reed, cabinet member for children and families, said:
“Congratulations to everyone involved in this wonderful project – five years is a huge achievement. Throughout this time, we have seen significant improvements in children’s literacy levels and enthusiasm for reading.
“We’re very grateful to the firefighters from Humberside Fire and Rescue Service for giving up their time to support this project. They are inspirational role models for children who might not otherwise readily engage in reading and literacy.”
(Image: humbersidefire/ Twitter)
