London firefighter Richard Reid has been selected to be one of the first ever national black role models. He is part of the Government’s REACH programme, which aims to tackle the culture of low aspirations and low attainment that exists in some young black men.
Richard is the only firefighter to be chosen as one of the 20 national role models, who will now act as an inspiration to others and engage with community groups, to help raise the aspirations of black boys. They will also go into schools and colleges, youth projects and also young offender institutions and talk about their personal journeys.
The programme was launched on Wednesday 3 December by Communities Secretary Hazel Blears at an event hosted by actor and playwright Kwame Kwei Armah.
Richard Reid grew up in Brixton and has always been keen to encourage others to follow in his footsteps, getting involved in London Fire Brigade’s programme of open days, which encourage more black and minority people and women to consider the fire service as a career.
Richard said “I have a hunger and determination to let young people know that they have options and can change their lives. My message to young black men is: the fire service is a career for you”.
Visit Directgov for more information on the REACH programme
