Joanna Lockwood: Norfolk Fire and Rescue
I joined Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service as a PA. A couple of months in I got to spend a day out where I watched a large animal rescue demo and attended emergency fire calls. When I returned to the office the next day I said to the Chief, ‘If I had done that 20 years ago I would definitely have applied to be a firefighter. ‘Well, do it now!’ he said. That’s how my journey to becoming a firefighter began.
The best thing about being a firefighter is the variety. You never know what the next call is going to be and you have a real sense of achievement when you’re able to help someone in their time of need. I also love the crew – it really feels like you’re part of a big family and the support and encouragement I have received has been amazing.