Shetland Combined Police and Fire Youth Volunteer Scheme Completes Pilot Phase

That the Parliament congratulates Shetland’s unique combined police and fire youth volunteer scheme on completing its initial pilot phase; understands that the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Youth Volunteer Scheme and the Police Scotland Youth Volunteers teamed up to launch the combined scheme, which is the first of its kind in Scotland, to create a safe, welcoming and enjoyable environment where young people can learn, develop positive relationships and work together for a safer Scotland; further understands that the collaboration means that the organisations can share resources and work together to strengthen the relationships between the police, fire service and young people in Shetland; commends both the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and Police Scotland for their support of this unique pilot scheme, particularly group commander Matt Mason and retired superintendent Lindsay Tulloch; praises the work of the Police Constables, fire service and volunteers that lead the scheme, and of adult volunteers that support it; believes that the scheme provides various opportunities for young people to be equipped with life skills, make a difference in their communities and gain a practical understanding of police and fire services; understands that a diverse group of young people from across Shetland took part in the scheme and created a strong team that celebrated shared victories and supported each other through struggles; recognises what it sees as the commitment, dedication, energy and enthusiasm of this group of young people has been critical to the success of the pilot scheme, and wishes all involved with the scheme well as they move into the evaluation phase of the pilot.