The British Red Cross has partnered with Newport Fire Station to provide a new base for its emergency response vehicle, which will now operate from the South Street site.
The specially-adapted vehicle is used by Red Cross volunteers to support people after fires, floods and other major incidents on the Isle of Wight. It serves as a mobile support unit equipped with essential supplies, including food, blankets, torches, pet items and clothing for people displaced from their homes at short notice.
The move coincides with the 20th anniversary of the Red Cross crisis response team’s work on the Isle of Wight. Staffed entirely by volunteers, the team operates around the clock, every day of the year, offering help to residents during local emergencies.
British Red Cross previously used a 54-reg Fiat Ducato motorhome.
Darren Steed, Resilience Manager for the Isle of Wight Council, has said:
“We’re grateful to the British Red Cross for their continued support over the years. The British Red Cross crisis response team has always been ready to step in and support the Council when needed – particularly during evacuations and in supporting our most vulnerable residents.
“We look forward to working more closely together in future, to ensure the Island remains a safe and resilient place to live.”
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Amanda Carcary, British Red Cross Senior Emergency Response Officer, has said:
“Our local volunteers often respond alongside the fire service to support people after house fires or floods. We’re there with a hot drink, basic supplies, and a listening ear – while emergency services focus on their job.
“Having this new base means we can get to people faster when they need us most.
“We’re still very much part of the local community, working alongside Isle of Wight Council and Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service and proud to keep supporting people on the Isle of Wight. I’m so grateful to all our amazing volunteers who’ve been there for others over the past 20 years.”
Tim Clapp, Station Manager at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, has said:
“We are pleased to build upon our relationship with the British Red Cross who we work closely with, supporting those affected by significant incidents.
“The teams already respond from HIWFRS sites across Hampshire, and it is brilliant to welcome them to respond to incidents from Newport Fire Station on the Isle of Wight.
“Their work helps people recover from devastating emergencies, supporting them at their time of need and signposting them on to the agencies that can help them move forward.”
What a great idea , nice to see this happening
Absolutely great.
But what happened to the fire engine that used to be in that bay?
All the bays always had red fire engines in them – I even took a photo the other Sunday when they were all being washed. It was an impressive sight.