On Saturday 21st February, HUMBSAR hosted its very first Open Day, welcoming an inaugural intake of volunteers and offering a first look at the team behind this developing search and rescue capability.
Led by Search Manager Leigh Smith, the event marked a significant milestone for the organisation. It gave new team members the opportunity to meet the team behind HUMBSAR, while clearly setting out expectations, required commitment, and the purpose behind the initiative.
The day opened with an introduction from HFR Solutions CIC, outlining the vision for community safety and the role of Humberside Search and Rescue, followed by sessions from team leads and guest speakers covering expectations, local and national search operations, and specialist skills such as ground sign awareness.
Volunteers also had the opportunity to view proposed kit, uniform and vehicle designs, and were introduced to the Missing Persons Search Technicians course and future training plans.
Sessions throughout the day covered both local and national perspectives, alongside specialist operational knowledge. Contributors included:
- Nick Granger & Jenni Drinkall | HFR Solutions CIC – insights from the organisation behind HUMBSAR and its vision for community safety
- Leigh Smith & Phil Bradley | Humberside Search and Rescue (HUMBSAR) – setting out expectations, required commitment, and role purpose
- Police Search Advisor | Humberside Police (PolSA) – providing insight into local incidents, search activity, and operational expectations
- Sgt Chris Pullen | Police National Search Centre (PNSC) – exploring the national picture of missing persons and the history of search operations
- Paul Duffy | Lost and Missing Persons Search (L&MPS) – discussing the national and international picture of missing people linking search assurance
- Geoff Bunn | Ground Sign Awareness Expert – introducing the principles of ground sign awareness
These sessions gave volunteers an understanding of the complexities involved in search and rescue, as well as the standards required to operate effectively and safely.
HUMBSAR Search Manager, Leigh Smith
Reflecting on the day, Leigh Smith said:
“It was fantastic to see such a strong turnout for our first Open Day. The enthusiasm and commitment shown by our new volunteers was clear, and the quality of our guest speakers made the day both informative and inspiring.”
Huge thank you to Howdens Joinery for hosting the event and providing excellent support throughout the day. Appreciation also goes to all guest speakers whose contributions made the Open Day such a success.
HUMBSAR is built on partnership, driven by purpose.
Learn More and Get Involved
HUMBSAR is proudly brought to you by Community Interest Company, HFR Solutions.
If you’d like to learn more about HUMBSAR, or if you would like to join our HUMBSAR team on the next Open Day, explore the options below:
Learn more about HUMBSAR [display as button, link to HUMBSAR page]
Register your interest to join the HUMBSAR team [display as button, link to HUMBSAR application form]
Comments are closed