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Throughout 2025, STEP has been proud to continue building strong relationships with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS), a partnership that has become an important part of our community story and commitment to Stirling.
It all began with a few informal conversations and a shared commitment to partnership working. But with the creation of Ladder55, our flexible community business hub, that collaboration really came to life. Drawing subtle inspiration from the firefighting profession — from the name itself to the strength, teamwork and resilience it represents — Ladder55 became the point where it all came together and took off. Since its launch, the hub has not only provided workspace for local businesses but has also become a space where firefighters regularly train, connect and collaborate
Over the past year, we’ve had the privilege of welcoming multiple SFRS crews to our sites — starting with the five crews at Stirling fire station, this has expanded to other stations and on call crews throughout Stirling and beyond— who have used the building for essential breathing-apparatus and search-and-rescue training. These sessions allow firefighters to train in real-life environments, navigating smoke-filled rooms and unfamiliar layouts — skills that save lives every day.
To date we’ve hosted 22 training sessions, welcoming crews from 18 different watches across the region, with more sessions already booked in for the months ahead.
Recognising the incredible work of those who keep our communities safe, STEP has also been raising funds for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Family Support Trust, a charity that provides practical and emotional assistance to SFRS personnel and their families during times of illness, injury, bereavement and more.
Through tenant donations, event fundraising and staff initiatives, STEP has so far raised £2,075 this year — enough to allow around six to seven families to access much-needed essential recovery breaks at the charity’s respite cottages across Scotland.
In September, a representative from the Family Support Trust joined us at our Stirling Enterprise Park site, alongside members of Stirling’s Blue Watch, to mark the donation. It was a proud moment that highlighted the strength of community partnership and the value of giving back.
Our team has also been hands-on in supporting these efforts. So far, STEP staff have volunteered over 70 hours of their time to assist with events, fundraising activities and on-site training support. From coordinating sessions to helping with collections and awareness campaigns, their enthusiasm has played a big part in making this partnership a success.
Speaking at the visit, Laura Melville, STEP Director of Property and Operations, said:
“Our relationship with SFRS is about more than just building use — it’s about shared values and community connection. Being on site to allow this training to take place and observing the crews train in our buildings is genuinely humbling; until you see it up close, you don’t truly appreciate the skill, teamwork and bravery involved. The work the Family Support Trust does is remarkable, and we’re honoured to play even a small part in supporting the wellbeing of those who dedicate their lives to protecting others.”
If anyone would like to volunteer their time at one of the training sessions and see first-hand what’s involved, please get in touch with Laura at lmelville@stepscotland.co.uk.
With further training sessions already scheduled, STEP looks forward to continuing to support the Fire and Rescue Service, offering practical space for crews while championing the incredible people behind the uniform.
STEP was founded over forty years ago through a gift from Imperial Tobacco, following the closure of its Stirling factory and the redundancies that affected hundreds of local people. That act of generosity was given with one intention — to help new enterprise grow and to keep opportunity alive in Stirling. Standing side by side with those who make our city safer, stronger and more resilient feels like a continuation of that legacy. Supporting the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and their Family Support Trust isn’t just community spirit — it’s a reflection of the purpose STEP was built on.
