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Reach Issue 5 2013 | 23

the £9 million it costs each year to support ill, injured, or traumatised re ghters. Three rehabilitation centres help re ghters and their families get back on their feet after injury, illness, trauma and problems in their lives. Sometimes the deepest scars of re ghting cannot be seen, so serving and retired re ghters can also call the trained advisers on the charity’s helpline for support and advice on a wide range of issues. The Marine Court rehabilitation centre in Littlehampton has always been a popular place for re ghters and their families to rest and recuperate, and it has now undergone a major programme of refurbishment and now offers rehabilitation facilities in addition to the existing recuperation services. Marine Court has a new hydrotherapy pool, a gym, a changing and shower area,

The centre is now all set for its of cial opening ceremony, which takes place as part of the charity’s ongoing 70th anniversary celebrations.

To mark the charity’s 70th anniversary, a series of challenges are being run over the coming months. The Fire Fighters Charity is supported by Airwave, and there are a range of dates and locations so, make 2013 the year you take part – visit www. re ghterscharity.org.uk for details.

To access any of The Fire Fighters Charity’s services, call free on the con dential helpline on 0800 389 8820 or for more information on any of the rehabilitation and recuperation facilities visit www. re ghterscharity.org.uk

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and the bene†ts have been twofold. Firstly the physical programme takes a proactive approach rather than a reactive one, and secondly I’ve learnt how to manage my condition so that it is no longer a problem in my day to day life. The team has given me the psychological tools and the mental strength to manage my condition.”

The charity’s rehabilitation programme has given Peter the con†dence and peace of mind, that his back will not be such a big problem in his life and career – and he is even back to doing all the activities he loves – racing moto-cross, scrambling, running, and swimming!