An intervention programme set up to help young people with an unhealthy fascination with fire has been hailed a success.
Over the past three years, none of the 118 participants who have completed the county’s Fire Setters Intervention programme have gone on to commit further arson.
Delivered by the joint Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue and Northamptonshire Police Arson Task Force, the programme works with young people aged four-18 who have been referred to the scheme after setting fires.
Aiming to be non-confrontational and educational rather than enforcing punishment, the Arson Task Force works closely with young people and their families on a one-to-one basis, building trust and understanding.
The programme also works with young people that have made repeated hoax calls to the fire service.
The Task Force tackles the root cause of their behaviour, providing educational support on the safety risks, potential consequences and impact of their actions.
Sessions are tailored to the needs of each child and takes place in the home, in school and at fire stations.
Many young people referred to the programme are facing wider challenges. In these cases, the Arson Task Force works in partnership with Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone’s Early Intervention Team to ensure that each young person receives the support they need.
The Arson Task Force also delivers targeted prevention sessions in schools, particularly in areas affected by repeated incidents. This includes sessions for specific year groups and whole-school assemblies to raise awareness and reduce risk.
Lisa Bryan, Head of Prevention, Safeguarding and Partnerships at Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “The Fire Setters programme gives young people the chance to understand the consequences of fire in a safe, supportive environment. By combining education and early intervention it helps to break dangerous patterns before they escalate.
“It’s positive to see that the programme is having such an impact on young people, helping to divert them away from dangerous behaviours that can cause harm to themselves, others and communities.”
Parents, carers and teachers with concerns about a child’s fire-related behaviours are encouraged to make a referral to the scheme or contact the Arson Task Force for advice: arsontaskforce@northantsfire.gov.uk
Schools are able to access self-deliverable learning programmes through Stay-Wise:
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