Fire services call for investment and support amid Spring Statement housing and skills focus

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking News

Fire and rescue sector highlights growing demand and limited resources

The UK Government has published the Spring Statement 2025, confirming investment in defence, housing and skills, while setting the stage for a full Spending Review in June.

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) and the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) have issued responses expressing concern about the ongoing impact on the fire sector.

According to the NFCC, the fire and rescue sector was not prioritised in this year’s Spring Statement, despite increased responsibilities and rising demand.

Chair Mark Hardingham warned that without clear investment commitments in the upcoming Spending Review, services may be unable to meet growing public safety needs.

The NFCC welcomed the £625 million allocated for construction sector skills development, which it identified as a barrier to addressing building fire safety.

However, it said further clarity was needed on how the funding would be deployed.

Call for increased recognition of fire service role in resilience

Hardingham said: “We urgently need assurances ahead of the Spending Review that investment in these critical services will be prioritised to protect public safety.”

He added that since 2008 the number of full-time firefighters has fallen by 11,000, while 999 incidents have increased by 18% over the past ten years.

He highlighted the gap between demand and available resources, noting that there has been no new capital funding for more than a decade.

The NFCC also pointed to additional pressures arising from expanded regulatory roles in the wake of the building safety crisis and new threats linked to climate change and technology.

Hardingham said: “We want to see [fire services] feature prominently in the Government’s plans in the coming months as we move towards the Spending Review.”

Union criticises Labour for not reversing public sector pay decline

The Fire Brigades Union issued a separate response urging the government to increase funding for public sector pay.

FBU General Secretary Steve Wright criticised the Chancellor’s approach, stating that the fire service has faced more than a decade of cuts.

Wright said: “Labour must make funding available for substantial pay increases in the fire service and across the public sector.”

He also called on the government to introduce a wealth tax to fund these increases.

The FBU cited research suggesting a 2% tax on assets over £10 million could raise £24 billion annually.

Construction investment welcomed, but calls for safety prioritisation

As part of the Spring Statement, the government confirmed a £625 million investment in construction skills over four years.

The programme is expected to support the training of up to 60,000 additional workers.

The NFCC welcomed the announcement but cautioned that the success of the investment depends on effective targeting.

Hardingham said: “This investment must be backed by a clear strategy to ensure the funds are going to where they are needed most.”

He also stated that construction-related skills shortages have delayed remediation of unsafe buildings and limited fire safety improvements.

Housing commitments increase pressure on safety regulators

The Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) projected that recent planning reforms will result in 170,000 additional homes being built.

The government also announced £2 billion in additional funding for social and affordable housing for 2026–27, ahead of wider housing investment plans to be set out in June.

According to the NFCC, the scale of new housing development places additional regulatory burdens on already stretched fire and rescue services.

Hardingham said: “The lack of capital funding has hindered efforts to modernise services and improve firefighter safety.”

The government confirmed that a revised Long-Term Housing Strategy would be published later in 2025.

Concerns raised over local authority finances and resident safety

Director at Harmony Fire, Lee Goodenough, commented on the potential impact of the Spring Statement on housing safety.

He noted that reduced fiscal headroom and pressure on local authority finances could affect investment in building safety.

Goodenough said: “It is now more important than ever that landlords prioritise those safety interventions and upgrades that are the most consequential to protecting the lives of residents.”

He warned against spending on “low-level actions that will not save lives or stand up to scrutiny.”

Government delays building safety levy implementation

The government confirmed a one-year delay to the Building Safety Levy, which will now come into effect on 1 October 2026.

The levy aims to fund building safety remediation and will include exemptions for affordable housing and smaller developments.

Previously developed land will benefit from a reduced rate to support site viability.

However, no new capital funding for fire services was included in this year’s announcements.

The delay in levy implementation may impact the speed of remediation for unsafe buildings, particularly in areas dependent on levy funding.

Spending Review expected to set future direction

The Chancellor confirmed that a full Spending Review will take place in June 2025.

This review is expected to include longer-term investment plans for social housing and infrastructure.

Ahead of that, the government has increased capital investment by £13 billion across the Parliament and confirmed reforms to planning processes.

The NFCC urged ministers to use the Spending Review to address longstanding resource issues facing fire services.

Hardingham said: “We stand ready to work with ministers to ensure that services are properly resourced to meet the increasing risks and demands they face.”

Fire sector and public sector pay remain unresolved in Spring Statement

Despite increased investment in defence, housing and skills, the Spring Statement did not include direct funding for fire services or commitments on public sector pay.

The fire sector has expressed concern that its role in national resilience and public safety continues to be overlooked.

The FBU and NFCC both emphasised the need for long-term, strategic investment to address capability gaps.

The upcoming Spending Review will now be the next opportunity for the government to respond to these concerns.

Fire services call for investment and support amid Spring Statement housing and skills focus: Summary

The Spring Statement 2025 included £625 million for construction skills, £2 billion for social housing and a one-year delay to the Building Safety Levy.

The NFCC said fire and rescue services need urgent investment to address increased demand, staffing reductions, and added regulatory responsibilities.

The FBU called for a wealth tax to fund public sector pay increases.

Harmony Fire’s Lee Goodenough said budget constraints could impact housing safety upgrades.

The OBR reported that housing targets would not be met, with only 1.3 million homes expected instead of 1.5 million.

The government confirmed a full Spending Review for June 2025, where long-term funding decisions will be made.

Scottish fire service budget increase falls short, says FBU

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

Scottish Parliament allocates funding for SFRS

The Scottish Parliament has approved the 2025 budget, which includes funding for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS).

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has raised concerns that while the budget will see a moderate increase, it is insufficient to address the financial pressures faced by the service.

The union highlights that over the past 13 years, more than 1,200 firefighter posts have been lost due to budget cuts. In 2023, ten fire engines were taken out of service and remain unavailable.

FBU warns of ongoing financial strain

The FBU states that inflation and the deteriorating condition of fire stations and control rooms will absorb much of the budget increase.

Colin Brown, FBU executive council member for Scotland, said: “The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is in a state of crisis after years of underfunding. While the FBU welcomes an increase to the budget this year, much of this will be swallowed by inflation and the spiralling costs of a crumbling estate.”

He added that the service requires long-term investment to restore lost resources and improve working conditions.

Calls for greater capital investment

The SFRS has identified that £80 million in annual capital investment is needed to address backlogs in maintenance and infrastructure improvements.

Brown said: “Fire stations and control rooms are in appalling condition across the country, left to decay without investment. While an increase to capital expenditure is welcome, nearly twice as much is needed to make fire service buildings functional and safe.”

The FBU has also raised concerns over the impact of changes to employers’ national insurance contributions, which could leave the service with a funding shortfall if additional resources are not provided.

National concerns over firefighter numbers

FBU general secretary Steve Wright highlighted the wider issue of firefighter reductions across the UK.

He said: “Since 2010, 1 in 5 firefighter posts have been lost to cuts across the UK. Scotland has 1,200 fewer firefighters than in 2010, pushing the service to breaking point.”

Wright also noted the increasing demands on fire and rescue services due to extreme weather events linked to climate change.

“Politicians at every level have a duty to give the fire service the resources it needs to keep the public safe,” he said.

Scottish fire service budget increase falls short, says FBU: Summary

The Scottish Parliament has approved its 2025 budget, which includes funding for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

The Fire Brigades Union has warned that while there is an increase, inflation and ongoing financial pressures will limit its impact. More than 1,200 firefighter posts have been lost over the past 13 years, and ten fire engines remain unavailable due to previous budget cuts.

The SFRS has estimated that £80 million in annual capital investment is required to address maintenance backlogs, with the FBU stating that current funding is insufficient.

Concerns have also been raised over changes to national insurance contributions, which could create further financial strain. The FBU is calling for long-term investment to restore firefighter numbers, improve station conditions, and ensure fire and rescue services are equipped to handle growing risks.

Certification Officer report examines Fire Brigades Union governance

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

Report finds no breach of statutory provisions

The Certification Officer has published the findings of its investigation into the financial affairs of the Fire Brigades Union (FBU), concluding that there was no evidence of statutory breaches.

The investigation followed complaints from former FBU officials, who alleged that the union had made secret payments to employees without the approval of its Executive Council.

The report states: “No conclusive evidence that any of the matters referred to in section 37B (2) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 (the 1992 Act) have occurred.”

The report also examined allegations of a culture of bullying at senior levels within the FBU.

It found no evidence to support these claims.

Governance issues and record-keeping concerns identified

While clearing the union of financial wrongdoing, the report highlights governance issues within the FBU, citing inconsistencies in the interpretation of union rules by Executive Council members and full-time officials.

It also identifies weaknesses in the union’s record-keeping processes.

The report suggests that these shortcomings have contributed to internal disputes within the union.

It states: “Governance shortcomings appear to have amplified pre-existing disagreements within the union.

“The effect has been to provide a catalyst for disputes that, in truth, appear to have as much to do with factionalism as with substantive concerns about financial irregularities.”

FBU acknowledges findings and commits to reforms

The FBU has responded to the report, stating that it welcomes the findings and will act on governance concerns raised in the investigation.

Mark Rowe, FBU national officer, said: “The FBU welcomes the publication of this report.

“It is the product of a thorough investigation which we have complied proactively from the start.

“We are pleased that the report does not find any evidence of a breach of any statutory provision.”

He added that the union will take immediate steps to improve its record-keeping to ensure compliance with internal rules and statutory requirements.

Next steps for the union

The report also suggests that FBU rules, including those governing delegated powers, require review.

The union has stated that it will examine these recommendations through a democratic process involving the Executive Council and wider membership.

Rowe said: “The FBU’s rules, and our collective understanding of rules in relation to matters such as delegated powers, are not fit for purpose.

“This is again something we will examine and look to act upon through a democratic process with the engagement of our Executive Council and wider membership.”

He added that the union acknowledges the need for improvement and will take steps to address governance concerns raised in the report.

Certification Officer report examines Fire Brigades Union governance: Summary

The Certification Officer has published an investigation report into the financial affairs of the Fire Brigades Union.

The investigation was prompted by complaints from former officials alleging secret payments to employees without Executive Council approval.

The report concludes that there is no evidence of statutory breaches.

The report also reviewed allegations of bullying at senior levels within the union but found no supporting evidence.

However, it highlights governance shortcomings, including inconsistent interpretation of union rules and weaknesses in record-keeping.

It states that these issues have contributed to internal disputes within the FBU.

The union has acknowledged the findings and committed to addressing governance concerns.

National officer Mark Rowe stated that the FBU would take immediate action to improve record-keeping and review internal rules through a democratic process.

The union will work with its Executive Council and membership to implement necessary changes.

Eight years of pay errors for Suffolk firefighters, FBU reports

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

Firefighters report eight years of pay issues

Firefighters in Suffolk have reportedly faced repeated payroll errors for the past eight years, with issues affecting salaries, pension contributions, holiday pay, and promotions.

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has criticised Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) and Suffolk County Council, stating that firefighters continue to suffer financial difficulties due to miscalculations and administrative failures.

A report by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS), published last week, found that senior leaders at SFRS “aren’t providing effective strategic oversight of day-to-day operations” and raised concerns about “how it looks after its people.”

Fire Brigades Union calls for action

The FBU has stated that these management issues have resulted in incorrect salary payments since 2017, including errors in pension deductions, holiday pay miscalculations, and late payments.

In 2023, some firefighters were left with pension contribution shortfalls reaching four figures.

The union reports that these problems have continued into the past year, with ongoing errors in sick pay, promotions, and pension contributions.

Some firefighters are now repaying multiple arrears caused by payroll mistakes.

Firefighters express frustration over unresolved issues

Fire service staff have raised concerns about payroll inaccuracies through multiple votes of no confidence and formal complaints over the past eight years.

The FBU has engaged in discussions with fire service leadership, pressing for a resolution to the ongoing issues, but reports that the problems remain unaddressed.

FBU criticises fire service leadership

Phil Johnston, Fire Brigades Union Suffolk brigade chair, said: “Firefighters in Suffolk are rightfully outraged that their employer is still failing to pay them correctly.

“The inspectorate’s report into Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service shone a spotlight on failings of senior management last week.

“In a stark instance of these failings, leaders have ignored staff for eight years instead of fixing an administrative issue.

“It is appalling that firefighters continue to experience mistakes in their pay.

“Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service and Suffolk County Council must take action immediately to ensure Suffolk’s hardworking firefighters are paid correctly and on time.”

Firefighters in Suffolk face ongoing pay errors, says FBU: Summary

Firefighters in Suffolk have experienced payroll issues for the past eight years, with errors affecting pension contributions, holiday pay, and promotions.

The Fire Brigades Union has called for action, criticising Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service and Suffolk County Council for failing to resolve the ongoing administrative mistakes.

A report by HMICFRS last week highlighted concerns about senior leadership at SFRS, stating that they are not providing effective oversight.

The FBU reports that firefighters continue to deal with pay errors, with some repaying arrears caused by administrative failures.

Firefighters have raised concerns through votes of no confidence and formal complaints.

The FBU has urged SFRS and Suffolk County Council to act immediately to ensure firefighters receive accurate and timely payments.

UK government transfers fire responsibility from Home Office to MHCLG

by Breaking News

Fire policy moves from Home Office to MHCLG

The UK government has confirmed that responsibility for fire will move from the Home Office to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG).

Prime Minister Keir Starmer made the announcement in a written statement, citing the Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s Phase 2 report as the basis for the decision.

Starmer said: “On 4 September 2024 I announced that the Government would respond in full to the Grenfell Phase 2 Inquiry report within six months.

In response to one of the recommendations from the report, I am confirming today that responsibility for fire will move from the Home Office to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.”

According to the statement, the change is intended to create a more coordinated approach to fire safety by placing responsibility for both fire and building safety under one department.

The Home Office will retain control of the Airwave Service Contract and remain responsible for the Emergency Services Mobile Communications Programme and His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS).

Fire Brigades Union welcomes the move

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) expressed support for the change, calling it an important step toward addressing challenges faced by the fire and rescue service.

Steve Wright, FBU general secretary, said: “The Fire Brigades Union wholeheartedly welcomes this move as an important first step to repairing the damage done to the fire and rescue service by recent governments.”

He added that the union was encouraged by the government’s timely response to the Grenfell Tower Inquiry and reiterated support for those affected by the disaster: “Our thoughts are with the bereaved, survivors and residents of the tower, and their fight for justice.”

Wright stated that the union looks forward to working with ministers to ensure adequate funding and national standards for fire and rescue services.

NFCC supports fire governance transfer

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) also welcomed the transition of fire and rescue responsibilities to MHCLG.

NFCC Chair Mark Hardingham said: “Fire and rescue services face considerable challenges – from implementing significant reforms following the Grenfell Tower fire, to ensuring resilience and sustainability, to adapting to evolving risks.”

He emphasised that the NFCC looks forward to collaborating with MHCLG to improve fire services and secure investment for the sector.

Hardingham also acknowledged the work of previous Fire Ministers and Home Office officials, stating: “Their commitment to fire and rescue has been invaluable and we appreciate their contribution to strengthening the sector.”

Continued collaboration with the Home Office

While oversight of fire policy is shifting, the NFCC stated that cooperation with the Home Office will continue on key issues.

Hardingham highlighted areas where collaboration remains necessary, including counter-terrorism efforts, tackling violence against women and girls, and joint work with police services.

“As we move forward, we remain committed to working collaboratively and constructively with government to deliver the best possible outcomes for fire and rescue services across the country and the communities they serve,” he said.

UK government transfers fire responsibility from Home Office to MHCLG: Summary

The UK government has confirmed that responsibility for fire will transfer from the Home Office to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG).

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the change follows recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s Phase 2 report.

The move consolidates fire and building safety oversight under MHCLG.

The Home Office will retain responsibility for certain fire-related functions, including the Airwave Service Contract and the Emergency Services Mobile Communications Programme.

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) welcomed the change, calling it a necessary step in addressing long-standing issues in fire services.

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) also expressed support, stating that it looks forward to working with MHCLG to improve resilience and funding for fire and rescue services.

The NFCC confirmed that collaboration with the Home Office will continue on counter-terrorism, policing, and violence prevention initiatives.

The transition will take effect from 1 April 2025.

Fire Brigades Union challenges real-terms funding cut to fire service

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

Local government settlement reveals fire service funding increase below inflation

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has criticised the UK government’s funding allocation for fire and rescue services in England, arguing that a real-terms cut will put public safety at risk.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) published its local government settlement on 3 February, outlining central funding levels for fire and rescue services from April 2025.

The budget will rise by 1.4%, while the Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation rate is around 2.5%.

FBU general secretary Steve Wright said: “This funding settlement is a real-terms cut to fire and rescue services across England.

“Even in cash terms, it will leave central government funding lower than it was a decade ago.”

FBU warns of further strain on fire and rescue services

FBU has stated that continued budget restrictions will worsen staffing shortages and emergency response times.

The union reports that since 2010, one in five firefighter roles has been cut, with central funding declining in real terms.

The latest budget allocates £999 million for fire and rescue services in England, reflecting a £13.4 million cash increase.

In contrast, in 2013-14, central funding was £1.24 billion when costs were lower.

Wright stated: “These cuts put lives at risk. We have lost one in five firefighter jobs since 2010, and response times are the worst they’ve ever been. Labour was elected promising change.”

Concerns over reliance on local taxation

The FBU has expressed concern that local authorities may attempt to compensate for the funding shortfall by increasing council tax.

The union has warned that this approach could widen disparities in fire service provision across different regions.

Wright said: “There is already a postcode lottery on fire cover, and a lack of central government funding will make fragmentation worse.

“In some areas, local authorities will raise council tax to cover the shortfall. In others, they may choose to cut the fire service even more.”

Call for investment in fire services and firefighter pay

The FBU has urged the government to reconsider the funding settlement and increase investment in fire and rescue services.

It is also calling for a pay rise for firefighters, citing significant real-terms wage reductions over the past 15 years.

Wright said: “The Fire Brigades Union urges the government to think again and deliver the investment we need to keep people safe.

“Any further cuts to fire services are cuts to public safety, and FBU members will be making that case to fire authorities across the country.

“We are also clear that we must see substantial real-terms improvement in pay, following 15 years of falling wages.”

Fire Brigades Union challenges real-terms funding cut to fire services: Summary

The Fire Brigades Union has criticised the UK government’s local government funding settlement for 2025, stating that the 1.4% increase for fire and rescue services in England is below inflation and amounts to a real-terms cut.

Since 2010, firefighter numbers have declined by 20%, and response times have worsened.

The FBU warns that the funding shortfall could result in increased reliance on council tax to cover costs, leading to regional disparities in fire service provision.

The union is calling for a reassessment of the budget and for firefighter pay increases to offset years of declining real-terms wages.

Wright has urged the government to reconsider its position and prioritise public safety by ensuring adequate resources for fire and rescue services.

Fire Brigades Union advises firefighters against assisting in police protest response

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

Fire Brigades Union issues guidance for firefighters during Oxford protests

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has advised its members not to participate in law enforcement activities during an ongoing protest in central Oxford.

Firefighters were reported to have attended an automatic fire alarm incident earlier today at the Radcliffe Camera library.

This guidance follows similar instances in Leicestershire, where police reportedly requested support from fire and rescue services to assist in the removal of protestors.

Firefighting is a humanitarian profession, says FBU

The FBU reiterated that the primary role of firefighters is humanitarian and separate from law enforcement duties.

Steve Wright, general secretary of the Fire Brigades Union, emphasised this position, stating: “Firefighting is a humanitarian profession, completely independent of law enforcement.

“The role of a firefighter is to protect the community and save lives, and does not include assisting the police response to protests or the removal of protestors.”

The union clarified that firefighters should focus solely on their core responsibilities, including responding to emergencies and saving lives.

FBU highlights support for the right to protest

The FBU expressed its ongoing support for the right to protest, citing its long-standing position on issues of peace and justice.

Steve Wright added: “The Fire Brigades Union advises all firefighters to refuse to participate in law enforcement activities alongside the police.

“We have a long history of supporting the right to protest, as well as peace and justice for Palestine.”

The union’s stance reinforces its independence from law enforcement while maintaining its commitment to humanitarian principles.

Background on police requests for fire service assistance

Previous incidents in Leicestershire highlighted similar situations where fire and rescue services were asked to assist police during demonstrations.

The FBU’s guidance aims to ensure that firefighters are not drawn into roles that could conflict with their professional remit.

Fire Brigades Union issues guidance for firefighters during Oxford protests: Summary

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has advised firefighters not to assist police in removing protestors during a demonstration in central Oxford.

Earlier today, firefighters responded to an automatic fire alarm at the Radcliffe Camera library.

The FBU, citing its humanitarian focus, has clarified that firefighters should not engage in law enforcement activities, including the removal of protestors.

General secretary Steve Wright stated that the union supports the right to protest and highlighted its history of advocating for peace and justice.

The guidance follows similar requests made in Leicestershire, where police sought fire service assistance during protests.

Fire Brigades Union urges government to establish statutory flood response duty

by Featured NewsFlooding
Image Credit: Fire Brigades Union

Leicestershire flood response prompts union call for government action

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has urged the government to implement a statutory duty for fire and rescue services in England to respond to flooding.

According to the FBU, this change would ensure central funding for flood resilience and response.

The union’s call follows a major incident in Leicestershire, where firefighters responded to 160 flood-related incidents after widespread flooding across the county.

Firefighters rescue 59 people during major incident in Leicestershire

Leicestershire firefighters conducted 59 rescues on Monday, responding to over 200 calls.

The FBU described these rescues as a “wake-up call” for the government.

Unlike other parts of the UK, fire services in England are not legally obligated to respond to floods, leaving services reliant on limited resources.

FBU highlights funding and resource challenges

FBU General Secretary Matt Wrack emphasised the strain on services, stating: “Firefighters continue to work tirelessly to save lives and protect communities from devastating flooding.”

Wrack further highlighted the impact of budget cuts and called for formal recognition of firefighters’ role in flood response.

The union insists that central funding and resources are essential to handle future flood emergencies effectively.

Letter to Home Secretary calls for immediate action

In November, the FBU wrote to Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, urging the government to address the issue.

The union called for investment in flood resilience and the introduction of a statutory duty for English fire services.

Wrack added: “Ministers must act now to implement a statutory duty for fire and rescue services in England with the funding and resources urgently needed.”

Fire Brigades Union calls for statutory flood response duty in England: Summary

The Fire Brigades Union has called for the government to introduce a statutory duty for fire and rescue services in England to respond to flooding.

The FBU’s appeal follows severe flooding in Leicestershire, where firefighters carried out 59 rescues in a single day.

Currently, fire services in England lack a statutory obligation to respond to floods, limiting central government funding for flood preparedness.

The union argues that recognising this role is essential to secure resources and protect communities.

Firefighters from Grenfell Tower fire report long-term health disorders

by Featured NewsHealth and Safety

Grenfell Tower firefighters suffer health issues from toxic smoke exposure

Over a quarter of firefighters who responded to the Grenfell Tower fire have reported lasting health issues, according to research published in the Journal of Environmental and Occupational Medicine.

The University of Central Lancashire conducted the study in collaboration with the Fire Brigades Union, analysing data from 524 of the 628 firefighters who attended the incident.

It revealed that 26% of firefighters reported a total of 301 health problems, including digestive, respiratory, and neurological diseases, as well as 11 cancer diagnoses.

Toxic smoke exposure exceeds safe levels

The study found that many firefighters experienced immediate symptoms such as choking, difficulty breathing, and vomiting due to exposure to toxic smoke.

Firefighters were subjected to levels of gases and particulate matter far beyond the Health and Safety Executive’s limits.

A majority of the affected firefighters reported not wearing respiratory protection, which was attributed to the severity of the incident.

Those exposed to smoke reported significantly higher rates of diseases within three years compared to those who were not.

Comparisons drawn to 9/11 health outcomes

The health issues reported by Grenfell firefighters mirror those experienced by first responders at the World Trade Centre collapse.

Following 9/11, a lifelong health monitoring program was established, leading to early diagnoses and treatment of cancers and other diseases.

In contrast, no comparable program exists for Grenfell responders, leaving many firefighters and residents without systematic health assessments or early intervention options.

Call for regular health monitoring of UK firefighters

Matt Wrack, general secretary of the Fire Brigades Union, emphasised the need for enhanced health testing, stating: “This research shows stark evidence of the health impact on firefighters who attended Grenfell.”

Professor Anna Stec, who led the study, echoed the call for preventive measures: “Firefighting is classified as a carcinogenic occupation.

“Regular health monitoring is essential to protect firefighters’ health.”

Grenfell Tower firefighters suffer health issues from toxic smoke exposure: Summary

Research from the University of Central Lancashire, in partnership with the Fire Brigades Union, revealed that 26% of Grenfell Tower firefighters now face long-term health disorders, including respiratory, digestive, and neurological diseases.

Published in the Journal of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, the study found firefighters were exposed to toxic smoke levels far beyond safe limits, with many not wearing respiratory protection.

Health outcomes resemble those of 9/11 responders, who benefited from regular health monitoring, yet no such program exists for Grenfell firefighters or affected residents.

Experts and union representatives are urging the UK to implement systematic health monitoring to identify and treat diseases early.

Fire Brigades Union begins pay rise negotiations for UK firefighters

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

Fire Brigades Union initiates pay discussions with employers

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has formally approached fire service employers to begin negotiations for a pay increase for firefighters and fire control staff in the UK.

As reported by the Fire Brigades Union, more than a decade of real-term pay reductions has been attributed to funding cuts under previous Conservative governments.

With Labour now in government, the union is pushing for funding to support an above-inflation pay increase.

In recent years, collective bargaining efforts have led to pay settlements, including a 4% increase in 2023 alongside other improvements such as enhanced maternity leave and boosted on-call firefighter retainers.

Earlier actions in 2022 and 2023, under the threat of strikes, secured pay rises of 7% and 5% respectively.

Negotiation process and sector-specific challenges

Unlike many public sector roles, firefighter pay negotiations are conducted through collective bargaining, allowing direct discussions between the union and employers.

Negotiations typically cover pay agreements from July to July.

The FBU sees this process as essential for securing fair compensation and aligning firefighter salaries with inflation and economic challenges.

Firefighters in the UK contend with a diverse range of risks, from fires and floods to extreme weather events.

Addressing these evolving demands, the FBU emphasises the importance of pay restoration as part of rebuilding the service after years of budget cuts.

Fire Brigades Union demands Labour government action

The FBU has called on the Labour government to prioritise funding for the fire service, including investment in national standards, training, and equipment.

General Secretary Matt Wrack commented on the current state of the service: “Firefighters put themselves at risk around the clock to keep people safe.

“They protect communities from fires, floods, storms and extreme weather events. Under the Tories, the fire service was subjected to massive cuts.

“One in five firefighter jobs was lost, and real terms pay fell. We now look to Labour to rebuild our fire service.

“Restoring pay is a vital part of this, alongside national standards and investment in training and equipment.

“The new government must make the money available for a substantial above-inflation pay increase to begin the work of making up for lost ground.”

Restoring firefighter pay remains a priority

The union argues that rebuilding the fire service requires a comprehensive approach that includes addressing past pay disparities and ensuring adequate funding for service improvements.

Firefighters and fire control staff have experienced over a decade of pay stagnation despite increased demands on the service, highlighting the importance of current negotiations.

The FBU’s commitment to collective bargaining remains central to securing a fair pay deal while navigating the complexities of public sector funding.

Fire Brigades Union begins pay rise negotiations for UK firefighters: Summary

The Fire Brigades Union has started pay negotiations with UK fire service employers, seeking an above-inflation rise for firefighters and fire control staff.

Years of real-term pay reductions, attributed to funding cuts under Conservative governments, have left the service underfunded.

The union has called on the Labour government to prioritise funding for the fire service, with General Secretary Matt Wrack urging investment in pay restoration, national standards, and equipment.

Recent collective bargaining efforts have secured notable pay increases, but the FBU asserts that further improvements are needed to address past disparities and rebuild the service.