Our volunteers

We are proud to have volunteers

Our volunteers bring skills, time and experience to our organisation which can be of great benefit to both Kent Fire and Rescue Service and the public. In return our volunteers enjoy the opportunity to make a difference to people in their local area, develop new skills, meet people from different backgrounds, have their contribution and achievements recognised, and ultimately help save lives.

We have volunteers in a variety of different roles which involve supporting crews and members of the public at operational incidents, helping to run successful events, managing resources, as well as supporting with our ongoing building safety and research work.

Being a volunteer at KFRS can fit into any lifestyle. It’s a great opportunity to love what you do, whilst making invaluable contributions to ensure we deliver a high quality service to all of our customers, in a variety of situations and scenarios.

Becoming a volunteer

We aren't currently recruiting, but if you're interested in becoming a fire service volunteer, keep an eye on our website for opportunities later on this year. You can also sign up to our mailing list so you can be the first to hear about any new volunteering opportunity at KFRS.

Our volunteers are dedicated

Every member of the volunteer team is proud to embrace the responsibility that comes with volunteering for Kent Fire and Rescue Service.

It goes hand-in-hand with each volunteer’s professionalism and dedication as we work alongside the staff and crews of the service. We strive to be the best we can, with a commitment to our (KFRS) customers as we help to save and protect lives.

Our volunteers are motivated

The voluntary work we do is meaningful and worthwhile. We not only give our time, energy and skills, but provide flexible help and support which enables KFRS to respond quickly.

We are not only motivated ourselves, but strive to motivate our families, friends and communities to stay safe and well by promoting KFRS safety messages.

Our volunteers are compassionate

As volunteers we communicate clearly, displaying compassion, understanding and sensitivity both as individuals and as part of KFRS.

We demonstrate this every time we support and protect our customers and colleagues.

Our volunteers are collaborative

Our strength is working together, with each other, our customers, partner organisations and decision makers.

By working together we help to save lives and keep our homes, businesses and roads safe.

Volunteer FAQs

What role will I be doing?

There’s a variety of volunteer roles available, and each one helps to ensure KFRS continues to deliver a high quality service to our customers. You can find more information about our volunteer roles above in the 'Our volunteering roles' section.

What skills or qualifications do I need?

For any volunteering role, there will be some skills that are required. Take a look through our role descriptions above to see if you have the desired skill set. Most importantly, anyone applying for our volunteer roles needs to be motivated, compassionate, dedicated and committed to collaborative working.

How much time do I need to volunteer?

The minimum number of hours for a volunteer to support Kent Fire and Rescue Service is 6 hours per month but some roles may require a few more.

Can anyone volunteer?

Volunteers need to be 18 years old, or over, and have the desired skills for a particular role. Not all activities will be suitable for volunteers aged 18 but we have lots of opportunities which are.

How often do you recruit for volunteers?

We are planning recruitment campaigns twice a year - currently January and June.

Is training provided?

Yes, training and support will be provided.

Can volunteers become firefighters?

Volunteers are welcome to apply for the role of a firefighter, providing KFRS is recruiting. Volunteers will need to go through the same application process as someone who isn’t a volunteer.

Do I need to live in Kent?

No, you do not need to live in Kent, but considering the location of the role, it would an advantage to know the Kent and Medway area. Travel expenses will be paid from the nearest fire station to you that is in the Kent area.

Would I be reimbursed for travel expenses?

Yes, any authorised travel undertaken whilst volunteering for Kent Fire and Rescue will be reimbursed. Travel expenses will be paid from the nearest fire station to you that is in the Kent area.

How do I apply?

Kent Fire and Rescue Service volunteers give their time, skills and knowledge to help create a safer future for Kent and Medway.

Together we are all one team and, with our volunteers acting as our ambassadors, we’re helping to make a difference to people’s lives – whoever they are.

If you enjoy contributing, being there for other people and want to be part of something that matters, consider volunteering with KFRS.

To apply:

  • You will need to be at least 16 years old to volunteer, although for some roles you may need to be at least 18 years old.
  • Please visit our roles page for information about the roles we are recruiting for. If there’s a role that suits your skill set, then please apply.
  • If you are shortlisted, you will be invited to attend an informal interview, where it will be your opportunity to talk us through your skills and experience to support your application, get to know us and ask us any questions you might have
  • In preparation for your interview, please take the time to look through this KFRS volunteer page and also explore the essence of being a volunteer with us.
  • If you are successful in becoming a volunteer, you will be asked to provide two references and a DBS check will be carried out.
  • On receipt of satisfactory references, you will then be asked to attend induction and training sessions.
  • If you are unsuccessful following your interview, we will provide you with full feedback about the outcome.

We have a fantastic variety of volunteering roles at KFRS.

You can find out more about the current roles we are recruiting for above in the 'Our volunteering roles' section.

Where can I find the application form?

The application form will be available on line but only when recruitment is open for that role.

I’d like to find out more, who can I contact?

If you have any other questions please contact volunteering@kent.fire-uk.org