Firefighters oppose 12-hour shift plans
The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has reported that firefighters in Mid and West Wales are campaigning against proposed shift pattern changes, which would involve the introduction of 12-hour shifts.
According to the FBU, more than 200 people, including firefighters and community supporters, gathered at the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service headquarters in March to voice opposition.
The union explained that over 4,000 people have signed a petition rejecting the proposed changes and that further industrial action is being considered.
Union warns of impact on firefighter retention
Tom Wass, Mid and West Wales FBU brigade organiser, said firefighters are worried about the long-term consequences of the changes on their ability to stay in the profession.
Wass said: “Hardworking firefighters fear that they will be forced to leave the profession.”
He added: “Concerns raised around the financial cost and lack of availability of 12-hour childcare are being ignored by management.”
The union explained that its local branches are meeting to decide the next steps in the campaign, including potential industrial action.
Culture review and leadership concerns raised
The FBU reported that concerns extend beyond shift patterns, with criticism directed at senior management practices.
Union representatives stated that claims of bullying and nepotism, which were detailed in a culture review published in January, have not been adequately addressed.
They argue that instead of acting on cultural concerns, management has prioritised operational changes.
FBU calls for accountability from senior leaders
FBU regional secretary for Wales Duncan Stewart-Ball said the organisation expects leadership to take responsibility for staff welfare and workplace standards.
Stewart-Ball said: “The fire authority must start listening to firefighters and holding the chief fire officer and senior management to account.”
The FBU added that the campaign would continue until the shift proposals and wider organisational issues are fully reviewed.
FBU challenges proposed shift changes in Mid and West Wales: Summary
The Fire Brigades Union has reported that firefighters in Mid and West Wales are campaigning against a proposal to change to 12-hour shifts.
More than 200 people attended a protest at the fire service headquarters in March.
Over 4,000 people have signed a petition opposing the proposed changes.
Tom Wass, Mid and West Wales FBU brigade organiser, said that firefighters fear the changes may force them out of the profession.
Wass also said the financial and childcare challenges of longer shifts are being overlooked.
The FBU said that local branches are meeting to discuss industrial action.
The union reported that members are also concerned about bullying and nepotism detailed in a January culture review.
Duncan Stewart-Ball, FBU regional secretary for Wales, said the fire authority must hold senior management to account.
The FBU said it would continue its campaign against the changes.