UK fire services condemn violent riots amid ongoing unrest

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking News

Fire Brigades Union condemns far-right riots

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has condemned the recent rise in far-right riots and racist violence in the UK.

FBU general secretary Matt Wrack stated: “Firefighters were among the first to respond to the appalling stabbings in Southport last week.

“The FBU sends its thoughts and condolences to all those affected, especially the loved ones of the three young children who tragically lost their lives, and we applaud the bravery and professionalism of the firefighters who attended.”

Wrack highlighted that the organised far-right has exploited these tragic events to incite a campaign of racist violence and intimidation.

He noted that attacks on mosques, hotels housing migrants, and other targets have been alarming.

He attributed the situation to decades of anti-migrant rhetoric and Islamophobia fueled by politicians and media outlets.

National Fire Chiefs Council’s stance

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) also expressed its concerns regarding the situation.

NFCC Chair Mark Hardingham said: “We are appalled at the horrific scenes of violence that we have witnessed over the past few days.

“We have significant concerns about the escalation in arson which presents a considerable risk to the lives of those inside the buildings targeted, the responding firefighters and other emergency services workers.”

Hardingham emphasised the need for an immediate end to the violence, stressing that fire and rescue services will continue to work with other emergency services to protect communities.

He reiterated that such violence has no place in society.

Overview of the riots and unrest

The unrest began in Southport following a tragic knife attack during a Taylor Swift-themed dance class that resulted in the deaths of three young girls.

False information about the suspect, Axel Rudakubana, led to widespread violence, with far-right groups mobilising to spread misinformation and incite riots.

As a result, cities and towns across the UK have experienced significant disturbances.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer condemned the violence, referring to it as “far-right thuggery.” An emergency COBRA meeting was held to address the situation, and over 140 individuals have been arrested nationwide.

Impact on fire and rescue services

Firefighters have faced significant challenges due to the riots, including obstruction and damage to fire appliances.

The deployment of resources to fires resulting from the unrest has impacted response times to other incidents.

The FBU has called for solidarity with those facing racism and violence, urging the trade union movement to continue mobilising against the far right.

The union has written to its Brigade Secretaries to encourage support for local mosques, migrant groups, and civil society organisations.

This initiative aims to build links and offer assistance to communities affected by the violence.

UK government advises public sector employers against enforcing Minimum Service Levels Act, FBU welcomes move

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Government advises public sector employers not to enforce the Minimum Service Levels Act

The UK government has instructed public sector employers not to enforce the Minimum Service Levels Act, which came into force last year.

This legislation affects six key industries, including fire and rescue, health, education, border security, transport, and nuclear decommissioning.

The Act allows employers to mandate some workers to attend work during strikes.

The devolved administrations in Scotland and Wales had previously refused to implement the law, and it does not apply to Northern Ireland.

Labour has committed to repealing the Act and the 2016 Trade Union Act.

Fire Brigades Union response

Matt Wrack, the Fire Brigades Union general secretary, welcomed the government’s move, stating: “This move marks the beginning of the end of the authoritarian Minimum Service Levels Act.

“While it is not yet off the statute book, the government has made it clear to all public sector employers that they should not issue work notices.

“Every employer must comply, and the Fire Brigades Union is seeking reassurances to this effect.”

Wrack criticised the Act, saying: “Like all anti-union laws, the Minimum Service Levels Act is designed to prevent workers from standing up for pay, conditions, and the services the public relies on.

“In the fire and rescue service, it amounted to a de facto strike ban across England.”

Political commitments and future actions

Angela Rayner’s letter, seen as a positive interim measure by the Fire Brigades Union, reinforces Labour’s promise to repeal the Minimum Service Levels Act.

The union remains vigilant, pushing for the complete removal of all anti-union laws.

Wrack added: “The Fire Brigades Union looks forward to the government delivering on its promise to repeal the Act entirely, along with the 2016 Trade Union Act.

“We will not rest until all of the anti-union laws are scrapped.”

Impact on fire and rescue services

The Act’s enforcement could have led to significant restrictions on strike actions within the fire and rescue services across England.

The government’s advisory against its implementation aligns with the broader resistance from unions and devolved administrations, reflecting ongoing debates about workers’ rights and public safety.

Concerns raised over fire cover in Dearne Valley due to staffing issues

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Fire cover concerns in Dearne Valley

Concerns have been raised regarding the adequacy of fire cover in Dearne Valley due to current staffing arrangements.

As reported by the Rotherham Advertiser, figures presented to Rotherham Council revealed that in December last year, the on-call fire engine at Dearne Fire Station was available for less than five per cent of the time.

This station, which opened in 2010, replaced the Brampton and Mexborough stations and operates with both full-time and on-call part-time firefighters.

Inconsistent availability of on-call firefighters

The availability of the on-call fire engine has been inconsistent over the past year, with the best figures still showing it idle for more than three days in ten due to insufficient staffing.

Councillor Simon Ball, a member of South Yorkshire Fire Authority, expressed concerns about the adequacy of fire cover in Dearne Valley during a Rotherham Council meeting.

Councillor Stuart Knight echoed these concerns, highlighting issues of underfunding and understaffing within the service.

Fire Brigades Union criticises on-call system

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has criticised the management of the on-call system, which relies heavily on part-time staff.

FBU spokesman Matt Nicholls described the system as “antiquated” and “fundamentally flawed”, citing the difficulty for part-time firefighters to remain within five or six minutes of the station for up to 120 hours a week.

Nicholls questioned why full-time firefighters were not used on overtime to provide better cover, noting that the service had underspent in recent years.

Efforts to improve on-call staffing

South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service acknowledged the challenges of maintaining on-call appliance availability, stating: “Recruitment and retention to all our on-call stations continues throughout the year.

“Nationally, the UK fire and rescue service faces challenges in relation to on-call appliance availability.

“SYFR has invested significant resources and financial support to ensure we achieve high levels of appliance availability.”

The service reported that on-call availability during the first three months of this year was 62 per cent, with expectations of improvement as new firefighters complete their training.

FBU demands change after HMICFRS report highlights misconduct in fire service

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

FBU’s stance on misconduct in fire and rescue services

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has called for urgent action in response to a new report on misconduct within fire and rescue services.

The report, published by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS), outlines various issues and calls for improvements from leadership levels down.

The HMICFRS report includes 15 recommendations aimed at chief fire officers and fire and rescue authorities.

These recommendations highlight the need for each service to have a professional standards function for fair and transparent misconduct investigations, along with appropriate training and support for investigating staff.

FBU’s strong response to misconduct issues

In response to the report, Matt Wrack, the FBU general secretary, stressed the importance of a safe and respectful working environment for firefighters.

Wrack stated: “Firefighters must be able to go to work without fear of bullying, harassment and discrimination.

“Just as much as fire contaminants and other dangers, this is a matter of health and safety and basic rights at work.”

Wrack emphasized the union’s unwavering support for victims of such behaviour and criticized the current culture in some fire services: “Fire service employers cannot continue to run services as ‘boys clubs’ where firefighters are afraid to speak out.”

Survey highlights extent of misconduct

The report revealed that nearly one in three firefighters surveyed had experienced or witnessed an abuse of power in the last year.

This finding underscores the need for systemic changes within the fire and rescue services.

Wrack stated: “Chief fire officers have a duty to ensure senior managers are held to account and to build processes that the workforce can trust.”

The FBU’s commitment to equality is embodied in its All Different All Equal policy, which aims to combat discrimination in all forms within fire stations and control rooms.

Wrack affirmed: “The Fire Brigades Union is committed to fighting discrimination of all forms in fire stations and control rooms.

“We will continue to take a leading role in transforming the fire and rescue service.”

Call for immediate implementation of recommendations

The HMICFRS report’s recommendations call for immediate and comprehensive action from fire and rescue authorities.

Establishing a professional standards function and ensuring proper training for misconduct investigations are seen as crucial steps to improve the working environment.

The FBU’s response highlights the urgent need for change and the importance of creating a workplace where firefighters can perform their duties without fear of discrimination or harassment.

Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service ‘requires improvement’ says inspection report

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

‘Response times are rising to record highs, putting lives and homes at risk’: Matt Wrack

The Fire Brigades Union has responded to the latest inspection report into Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service.

As reported by The Fire Brigades Union, the report by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) has found the Oxfordshire fire service “requiring improvement” in four key areas.

The service did not meet its targets for responding to fires.

The time taken for the first fire engine to arrive at a fire has increased to 11 minutes and 10 seconds, compared to 10 minutes and 35 seconds previously.

This is above the national average of 9 minutes and 13 seconds.

Values and culture concerns

The report outlines failures in promoting the “right values and culture”, with staff reporting instances of being shouted at by managers when struggling.

The service did not receive a rating above “adequate” in any performance area.

Matt Wrack, Fire Brigades Union general secretary, said: “Across the UK, cuts and failures of leadership have left fire and rescue services in desperate shape.

“The HMICFRS’ latest report reveals the toll this has taken on Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service.

“Response times are rising to record highs, putting lives and homes at risk.

“Firefighters have the right to work without fear of being mistreated, and yet fire service leaders are failing to address systemic issues of discrimination, harassment, and bullying.

“Chief fire officers must listen to firefighters and start investing in the service.”

Calls for investment and leadership

Steve Wright, Fire Brigades Union executive council member for the Southern region, added: “This report paints a picture of a fire service in dire need of investment and leadership.

“It is shocking that response times have increased, meaning it is taking longer for fire engines to arrive at incidents.

“This downgrading of fire cover is the result of decades of austerity, which must be reversed.

“With reports of managers shouting at struggling staff members, it is no wonder that some firefighters have little confidence in how bullying, harassment and discrimination are dealt with.

“The Direct Entry scheme parachuting in senior managers with no experience of firefighting has only added to turmoil at the top.

“Meaningful progress on equality and diversity requires support, investment, and routes for development for the frontline.”

Local impact and future plans

Nick Bourke, FBU Oxfordshire Brigade Secretary, commented: “Residents of Oxfordshire deserve an outstanding service, and firefighters must be treated with dignity and fairness at work.

“Standards in our service have been driven down over the past four years, and this report represents a new low.

“The Fire Brigades Union will continue campaigning for the resources needed to turn things around.

“FBU local officials look forward to meeting with fire service leaders to ensure that the voices of Oxfordshire firefighters are heard.”

Fire Brigades Union urges new Labour government to invest in fire service

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Fire Brigades Union issues call for action

Two years after the UK’s hottest day on record, the Fire Brigades Union has called on the new Labour government to “urgently invest in the fire service to protect public safety”.

The union’s appeal coincides with a yellow heat alert issued for parts of England.

As reported by the Fire Brigades Union, since 2010, the fire and rescue service has lost one in five firefighter jobs and more than 30% of its central government funding.

The union warns that as climate change accelerates, the lack of resources could result in fatalities.

Impact of past heatwaves

On 19 July 2022, temperatures soared to 40.3 degrees Celsius in Coningsby, Lincolnshire.

This extreme heat led to fifteen fire and rescue services declaring major incidents due to wildfires.

Affected areas included Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Cambridgeshire, Cheshire, Hertfordshire, Humberside, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, London, Norfolk, North Yorkshire, Nottinghamshire, South Yorkshire, and Suffolk.

The London Fire Brigade experienced its busiest day since the Second World War.

In London, there were 2,496 calls to control, with 740 related to grass fires.

Additionally, there were 1,198 mobilisations and 500 residents were evacuated.

The London Fire Brigade ran out of fire engines, leaving 39 appliances idle due to a lack of firefighters.

Union’s concerns and government response

Matt Wrack, general secretary of the Fire Brigades Union, stated: “Firefighters know first-hand that the climate emergency is real and getting worse.

“Wildfires, flooding, and heat are a growing threat to lives, homes, and communities.

“But in recent years, austerity has robbed the fire and rescue service of the resources it needs to respond effectively.

“One in five firefighter jobs has been lost, hundreds of fire engines have been axed, and dozens of fire stations closed.”

Wrack added: “It is welcome that Labour has committed to introducing national standards to address fragmentation.

“But the new government must urgently invest in the fire service to protect public safety.”

Financial challenges and resource needs

The financial constraints and resource shortages faced by the fire service have raised concerns about the ability to respond to future emergencies.

The reduction in funding and personnel has left many services struggling to cope with increased demands, particularly during extreme weather events.

The union emphasises the need for a well-resourced fire service to ensure public safety and effective response to emergencies.

The call for investment is aimed at reversing the effects of austerity and ensuring the fire service can meet the challenges posed by climate change.

King’s Speech: IOSH and Fire Brigades Union respond

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King’s Speech: New UK employment rights bill unveiled

The plans for the UK’s new Government were laid out on Wednesday, 17 July, in the King’s Speech in the House of Lords.

Among a range of new measures being introduced was the Employment Rights Bill, aimed at delivering on the Government’s New Deal for Working People.

Ruth Wilkinson, Head of Policy and Public Affairs at IOSH, expressed her approval of the new measures.

Wilkinson said: “The Government’s move to strengthen workers’ rights is music to my ears, as it will provide hope and reassurance for many millions of people.”

Wilkinson highlighted the importance of banning zero-hours contracts: “Such contracts make workers increasingly vulnerable in terms of their physical and mental health, as they add a huge degree of uncertainty around the duration of employment and unpredictable working hours.”

Improvements to statutory sick pay

Wilkinson also commented on the improvements to statutory sick pay, which she believes will help prevent people from returning to work too soon, potentially affecting their long-term health.

She emphasised the need for a broader focus on worker well-being and safety.

“We are keen to see a greater focus more generally on looking after people at work, making organisations accountable on their human rights obligations, tackling insecure work, advancing flexible working, strengthening safety standards and improving health and wellbeing in the workplace.

“This is the best recipe for boosting productivity and sustained economic growth,” Wilkinson added.

Fire Brigades Union welcomes changes

Matt Wrack, general secretary of the Fire Brigades Union (FBU), also responded positively to the King’s Speech.

Wrack said: “The steadfast commitment to start delivery of the New Deal for Working People within 100 days will significantly improve the lives of workers after 14 years of vicious anti-trade union legislation from the Tories.”

Wrack appreciated the urgency to deliver on Labour’s plan to repeal the Minimum Service Levels Act, which restricts key workers like firefighters from striking.

“The stated urgency to deliver on Labour’s plan to repeal the Minimum Service Levels Act, which effectively bans firefighters and other key workers going on strike to defend their jobs and wages, as part of that package is particularly welcome,” Wrack said.

Living wage increase and its impact

The commitment to increase the living wage as part of the New Deal for Working People was another point welcomed by Wrack.

He stated: “The commitment to increase the living wage as part of the New Deal for Working People is also hugely welcome and must be reflected in pay offers made to firefighters and other public sector workers after a decade and a half of severe wage restraint.”

Wrack also supported the banning of zero-hours contracts and tackling fire and rehire practices.

Labour Party pledges to reform fire and rescue services in the UK

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News
Image credit to: Fire Brigades Union/ Neil Terry Photography

Labour announces plan to reform fire and rescue services

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has welcomed the Labour Party’s commitment to transforming the fire and rescue service by involving firefighters and their union in its management.

As reported by the FBU, Shadow Home Secretary Yvette Cooper outlined Labour’s plan to develop a national structure to inform policy and establish national standards in the fire and rescue service.

Cooper spoke to firefighters in Dewsbury and Batley, a key battleground constituency, emphasising the need for collaboration with trade unions and other stakeholders.

Labour’s proposed structure aims to raise standards across the service, addressing issues such as health and safety and service consistency.

The current geographical fragmentation has led to a lack of UK-wide standards, resulting in a postcode lottery for fire cover.

Labour’s plan includes re-establishing national standards and safeguarding collective bargaining in the sector.

Impact of current challenges on fire and rescue services

Since 2010, the fire and rescue service has faced substantial cuts, losing one in five firefighter jobs and 30% of its central government funding.

These reductions have led to increased response times, with the average time for the first fire appliance to arrive now at 9 minutes and 12 seconds in England – the worst on record.

Labour’s manifesto commits to addressing these issues by developing national standards.

Cooper also reaffirmed Labour’s pledge to deliver the New Deal for Working People, including repealing the Minimum Service Levels Act and ending fire and rehire practices.

She stated: “We cannot afford five more years of this. We know that if Labour wins, we will not have an easy inheritance. But we can and will do things differently.”

Union’s response to Labour’s commitment

Matt Wrack, FBU general secretary, emphasised the crisis faced by the fire and rescue service after 14 years of Conservative rule.

He highlighted the risks posed to public and firefighter safety due to cuts and fragmentation, stressing the need for a unified approach to tackle new challenges, including the climate crisis.

Wrack stated: “The commitment to deliver national standards in the fire and rescue service is a vital first step.

“Today’s announcement sets out clearly how this might be delivered – with the creation of a new national body in consultation with all stakeholders, including the FBU.”

Labour’s vision for the future of the fire and rescue service

Labour’s vision for the fire and rescue service includes creating a new national body to set standards and involve frontline firefighters in decision-making processes.

This approach aims to end the postcode lottery on fire cover and ensure consistent, high-quality service across the UK.

The proposed reforms are expected to enhance the service’s ability to address emerging risks and improve overall safety standards.

Labour’s commitment to working closely with trade unions and other stakeholders is central to this plan, aiming to create a more resilient and responsive fire and rescue service.

UK fire service under pressure amid rising temperatures, says Fire Brigades Union

by Featured NewsWildland Fire

Fire Brigades Union calls for urgent action

The Fire Brigades Union has called for “urgent action” from the next government to prepare the UK for rising temperatures following this week’s heatwave.

Warnings for heat and wildfires have been in force across much of the country.

The union’s general secretary warned that the UK fire and rescue service was “fragmented, overstretched and chronically underfunded.”

Climate change is resulting in record-breaking temperatures, with an increased risk of heatwaves. Firefighters warn that urgent investment is needed to prevent a repeat of July 2022, when fire and rescue services were pushed to breaking point.

Impact of 2022 heatwave on London Fire Brigade

On 19 July 2022, the London Fire Brigade (LFB) reported its busiest day since World War II, evacuating approximately 500 people and taking nearly 3,000 calls.

In Wennington, East London, two rows of terraced houses were destroyed by fire.

However, that day, 39 fire engines were out of action without enough firefighters to crew them. The LFB was unable to send vital specialist equipment to some of the worst fires, while the control room taking calls declared an understaffing emergency.

Sixteen firefighters were injured, and two were hospitalised, with working conditions deemed unsafe.

Statements from Fire Brigades Union general secretary

Matt Wrack, Fire Brigades Union general secretary, emphasised the need for immediate government response to the climate emergency. Wrack stated:

“An incoming Labour government will need to wake up to the harsh reality of the climate emergency. We need urgent decarbonisation to avert the worst dangers of climate collapse, but we also need to adapt.”

He added: “Firefighters are battling the effects of soaring temperatures, but a decade of brutal cuts has left the UK unprepared. The fire and rescue service is fragmented, overstretched and chronically underfunded.

“Two years ago, UK firefighters were pushed to breaking point responding to raging wildfires without enough resources. We must not see a repeat of this chaos.

“The number of extreme weather events will only continue to rise, placing even more pressure on our overstretched fire service. Failing to invest in the fire service means failing to protect homes and lives from climate disasters.”

Preparing for future heatwaves

Firefighters are urging the next government to prioritise investment in the fire and rescue services to handle the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events.

They stress the importance of adapting to the changing climate and ensuring adequate resources and personnel are available to respond to emergencies.

The Fire Brigades Union highlights that without significant investment, the UK will continue to face challenges in protecting communities and infrastructure from the growing threat of wildfires and other climate-related disasters.

Merseyside fire authority postpones vote on fire engine crew size proposal

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Merseyside Firefighters oppose crew size reduction

Merseyside fire authority has postponed a vote on proposals to send firefighters to incidents in crews of three on a fire engine, as reported by the Fire Brigades Union (FBU).

Firefighters rallied outside the meeting, expressing strong opposition to the policy.

The FBU argues that a minimum of five firefighters is necessary to respond to incidents safely and professionally.

A fire engine with only three firefighters cannot deploy breathing apparatus and must wait for backup to arrive, which can delay response times in life-threatening situations.

Fire Brigades Union voices concerns

FBU representatives, including general secretary Matt Wrack, attended the fire authority meeting to voice their opposition.

The union also opposes the Community Risk Management Plan, which includes removing watch managers from fire engines and reintroducing downgraded ‘small fires units.’ The FBU believes these changes will increase risks for firefighters.

Matt Wrack stated: “Firefighters everywhere will welcome Merseyside fire authority’s decision not to vote on this dangerous policy today.

“The safe and professional standard is five firefighters to an engine. Sending crews of three to an incident puts lives on the line.”

Labour Party’s stance on fire and rescue standards

The Labour Party has committed to implementing national standards for fire and rescue services, including firefighter crewing levels.

This commitment is part of their manifesto for the upcoming general election.

The fire authority has said that the proposals will be discussed again after the election.

Ian Hibbert, Merseyside FBU brigade secretary, emphasised the firefighters’ dedication to safety: “Merseyside firefighters are proud to stand for public and firefighter safety.

“By rallying outside the fire authority meeting today, we made the strength of our commitment clear.

“Saving lives and homes is our priority, and we will fight against any downgrading of our service.”