First youth volunteer in Methil to become wholetime firefighter

A youth volunteer from Fife has begun his first posting with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service after graduating as a wholetime firefighter.

21-year-old Casey O’Brien joins the crews at Lochgelly Community Fire Station, completing a journey that began years ago in the Youth Volunteer Scheme (YVS).

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s Youth Volunteer Scheme is a national initiative which creates opportunities for people aged 12-18 to work together for a safer Scotland.

Casey is the first Methil YVS volunteer to take his place among the ranks of professional firefighters within the Service.

Casey’s interests in firefighting began when he was eight-years-old, after seeing crews tackle a blaze in his family garden in Levenmouth. That moment stuck with him and Casey became fascinated by the role of a firefighter. He turned dreams into reality by joining the Youth Volunteer Scheme five years ago.

He said: “Being part of the scheme gave me a proper insight into the Service.

“I got to meet crews, community safety teams, and people in the community. It confirmed that this was the path I wanted to take.”

Casey, who grew up in Levenmouth, joined the scheme in 2020 and quickly found himself surrounded by support, structure and a chance to learn how the Service works.

The discipline, practical skills, and confidence he developed there later became a foundation for his firefighter training. The 14-week training course took place at the National Training Centre in Cambuslang. While it was demanding, Casey settled in quickly as he already had an understanding of what to expect.

He said: “The first breathing apparatus week was hard, both physically and mentally. There was a lot to take in.

“But getting through that gave me a good footing for the rest of the course.”

For Casey, the practical elements of the role came naturally thanks to what he learned as a youth volunteer. He also noticed personal growth as the weeks of training continued.

Casey graduated in Cambuslang along with 34 other development firefighters in November.

He added: “I’ve become more confident in myself and strengthened my problem-solving skills.

“I’m looking forward to bringing that mindset into station life.

“I want to be someone people can look up to. A firefighter who’s trusted, dependable, and connected to the community.

Casey now volunteers as an adult volunteer instructor. He wants to keep mentoring and supporting the next generation of youth volunteers at Methil.

He said: “The scheme can open doors for young people, whether they want a career in the Service or simply want to grow confidence and skills.

“It’s a fantastic way to meet new friends, build skills and see what the Service really does.”

Casey also shared advice for others looking to get involved.

He said: “Simply go for it. Give it your all because what you put in it what you’ll get back.”

Community Safety Advocate Evelyn Taylor, who was also Casey’s mentor on the Youth Volunteer Scheme, said his journey shows exactly why the scheme matters.

Evelyn said: “Casey always showed determination and a real willingness to learn. He supported others, pushed himself and never lost sight of his goal.

“Seeing him graduate and head to his first station is something we're all proud of.”

Since February 2020, the YVS has engaged with over 300 young people, who have collectively volunteered nearly 5,000 hours for local initiatives. Additionally, more than 200 adult instructors have supported the group, contributing a total of 12,000 volunteer hours. Local schemes have supported nearly 200 community events and activities during this time, and work with a wide range of partners.

Find out more about our Youth Volunteer Scheme and how to apply.