Government urged to address skills shortages delaying cladding remediation

by Breaking NewsConstructionPassiveSafety

PAC report highlights UK cladding remediation delays

A new report by the Public Accounts Committee has identified ongoing delays and challenges in the UK’s response to the cladding crisis.

According to the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), the findings reflect key issues already raised in its recent remediation industry white paper.

NFCC Chair Mark Hardingham said the report confirmed that efforts to fix unsafe buildings continue to be obstructed by major barriers beyond funding alone:

Hardingham said: “Today’s report exposes both the extent of the cladding crisis and the considerable gaps that lie between the remediation action plan and its realisation.”

Fire services say capacity is limiting inspections

The NFCC has reiterated that fire and rescue services are under-resourced to meet the scale of inspection work needed for mid-rise residential buildings.

Hardingham said: “Fire and rescue services have been at the forefront of the response to remediate unsafe buildings, but as we continue to point out, lack the capacity and workforce needed to identify and inspect all mid-rise residential buildings.”

He also pointed to wider labour issues in construction as another contributing factor: “We are also seeing delays to remediation compounded further by skills shortages in the construction sector.”

Enforcement alone will not solve compliance issues

The NFCC cautioned that enforcement strategies cannot resolve the crisis without support for those required to act.

Hardingham said: “Whilst the Committee is justified in putting a spotlight on the important role of enforcement, this must be considered against the fact that many responsible building owners lack the means to comply due to complex ownership structures, or a shortage of skilled professionals to do the job.”

He added: “Put simply – we cannot enforce our way out of the cladding crisis.”

NFCC calls for national skills and remediation strategy

The NFCC is urging the UK Government to lead a centralised remediation effort backed by a national skills strategy.

Hardingham said: “NFCC is calling for a centrally coordinated Government led programme to address barriers to remediating unsafe residential buildings, with a cross-departmental Construction Skills Strategy needed to address chronic shortages in fire engineers, risk assessors, and other key professionals.”

He said a long-term approach is needed to ensure people are not left in unsafe housing indefinitely: “Today’s report underpins the importance of getting those essential foundations in place so that we are not leaving thousands of people living in unsafe buildings for many more years to come.”

Government urged to address skills shortages delaying cladding remediation: Summary

The National Fire Chiefs Council has responded to a new report by the Public Accounts Committee on cladding remediation in the UK.

NFCC Chair Mark Hardingham said the report confirms barriers already raised by the organisation in its white paper, including limited workforce capacity and skills shortages across the fire safety and construction sectors.

He said fire and rescue services do not have the resources to inspect all mid-rise residential buildings.

The NFCC said enforcement alone will not resolve compliance delays, as many responsible building owners are unable to act due to complex legal structures and labour shortfalls.

The NFCC is calling for a Government-led national remediation programme.

It is also proposing a cross-departmental Construction Skills Strategy to address shortages in fire engineers, risk assessors and other professionals.

NFCC Protection Conference 2025 examines fire safety policy changes

by Associations and OrganisationsEventsFeatured News

Government outlines fire safety reforms at NFCC event

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) hosted its Protection Conference 2025 at the Crowne Plaza in Stratford-upon-Avon, where around 150 fire and rescue professionals gathered to discuss ongoing fire safety reforms.

NFCC Protection Lead Dave Russel opened the event, addressing what he described as a “dust storm” of changes impacting fire safety policy.

He highlighted the need to maintain core Protection services while ensuring alignment with Prevention and Response.

Representatives from the Home Office and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) provided updates on fire safety responsibilities, including the transition of key functions to MHCLG, the government’s position on Residential Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs), and the regulation of fire risk assessors.

The rollout of the Fire and Rescue Data and Performance (FARDAP) system was also discussed.

Fire safety sector debates regulation and funding

Discussions at the conference focused on regulatory strengthening, remediation guidance, and the financial sustainability of fire safety reforms.

Government representatives reiterated their commitment to placing residents at the centre of policy changes, with an emphasis on ensuring fire services have adequate resources to implement new requirements effectively.

NFCC leaders spoke about the importance of organisational learning and workforce competence, calling for risk-based interventions to be prioritised.

The conference also examined the balance between high-rise and high-risk considerations, as well as updates on fire safety inspection and enforcement practices.

HMICFRS reports on fire protection improvements

Delegates heard from His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) on progress in the Protection sector since the first round of inspections in 2018.

While improvements were noted in consistency and staffing levels, challenges remain in training and operational capacity.

Sessions explored how fire services can meet evolving standards, with particular focus on the implementation of the Protection Fire Standard and the delivery of PEEPs in residential buildings.

NFCC calls for collaboration across fire safety sector

With ongoing policy changes and scrutiny on fire safety, NFCC leaders stressed the need for collaboration between government, fire services, and industry stakeholders.

The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that fire protection remains effective amid reforms.

NFCC stated that maintaining safety standards while adapting to legislative changes is a priority for fire and rescue services.

The event concluded with discussions on how the sector can continue to improve risk management and workforce capability.

NFCC Protection Conference 2025 examines fire safety policy changes: Summary

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) hosted its Protection Conference 2025 in Stratford-upon-Avon, where fire and rescue professionals discussed ongoing fire safety reforms.

NFCC Protection Lead Dave Russel highlighted the challenges of adapting to policy changes while maintaining Protection services.

Government representatives from the Home Office and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) provided updates on regulatory transitions, PEEPs, fire risk assessor regulation, and the rollout of the Fire and Rescue Data and Performance (FARDAP) system.

Discussions covered funding concerns, fire safety enforcement, and regulatory strengthening.

His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) reported improvements in staffing and consistency but noted ongoing challenges in training and capacity.

The conference concluded with calls for greater collaboration between government, fire services, and industry stakeholders to support the implementation of fire safety reforms.

NFCC calls for centralised programme to address unsafe building remediation barriers

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsBuilding ManagementConstructionSafety

NFCC highlights challenges in building remediation efforts

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has called for a centrally coordinated programme to overcome barriers to remediating unsafe buildings.

Publishing a new Industry White Paper on Remediation, NFCC states that while some progress has been made, significant challenges remain.

These include difficulties in identifying and inspecting affected buildings, workforce shortages, and funding pressures.

NFCC is urging the Government to increase the use of sprinklers in existing residential buildings over 11 metres based on risk assessments.

The council also highlights concerns about the slow pace of remediation efforts and the impact of limited fire safety resources.

Remediation targets and ongoing concerns

The Government’s Remediation Acceleration Plan, published in December, aims to complete remediation of all buildings over 18 metres within government-funded initiatives by the end of 2029.

Buildings over 11 metres with safety defects should either be remediated or have a clear completion timeline by the same deadline.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) estimates that up to 12,000 buildings over 11 metres need remediation.

However, 60% of affected buildings have yet to be identified.

According to NFCC, reviewing or inspecting all mid-rise residential buildings between 11 and 18 metres could take between 12.76 and 24.23 years, with costs ranging from £284.24 million to £608.82 million.

Funding and workforce challenges

Fire and rescue services continue to face increasing responsibilities, including the effects of extreme weather events and ongoing inflationary pressures.

NFCC states that many services will experience real-term funding reductions under next year’s local government financial settlement.

Even with additional funding, NFCC warns that workforce shortages in the construction and fire safety sectors would hinder progress.

Training fire engineers takes three to five years, and many professionals move to higher-paying private sector roles.

The limited availability of qualified personnel has also contributed to wage inflation.

NFCC is calling on the Government to develop a cross-departmental Construction Skills Strategy to address the shortfall in fire engineers, fire risk assessors, and other key roles.

Call for regulatory and competency reforms

The NFCC’s White Paper also urges the Government to implement recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 report.

These include measures to improve occupational regulation and competency in fire safety professions.

The council is also advocating for updates to building regulations guidance to ensure compliance with the Building Regulations 2010.

NFCC states that a more coordinated and strategic approach is needed to prevent further delays and ensure that residents in unsafe buildings receive necessary protections.

NFCC Chair Mark Hardingham said: “The Grenfell Tower fire was a national tragedy, and yet nearly eight years on, not enough progress has been made in addressing issues in the built environment.

“We need to put the proper processes in place now to fully identify and remove the barriers to remediation, to manage risk and ensure people are protected.”

NFCC calls for centralised programme to address unsafe building remediation barriers: Summary

NFCC has published an Industry White Paper on Remediation, calling for a centrally coordinated approach to address barriers in remediating unsafe buildings.

Challenges include workforce shortages, difficulties in identifying affected buildings, and funding pressures.

The Government’s Remediation Acceleration Plan aims to complete remediation of all high-rise buildings within government-funded schemes by 2029.

However, NFCC warns that existing capacity constraints mean that reviewing or inspecting mid-rise buildings could take up to 24 years.

The council is urging the Government to introduce a Construction Skills Strategy to address shortages in fire safety professionals.

NFCC is also calling for regulatory reforms and increased use of sprinklers in residential buildings over 11 metres.

NFCC Chair Mark Hardingham and Protection Committee Chair Dave Russel stress the need for urgent action to avoid further delays and ensure the safety of residents in affected buildings.

UK fire services review road traffic collision instructor training amid evolving vehicle technology

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsTraining

Training review launched for Road Traffic Collision Instructors

SFJ Awards, in collaboration with the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) and the United Kingdom Rescue Organisation, has launched a consultation to review Road Traffic Collision Instructor training for UK fire and rescue services.

The review has been prompted by advancements in vehicle technology, including the rise of electric vehicles, which have introduced new challenges for emergency responders.

The proposed changes include updates to course content to align with current safety guidelines and best practices for extrication and trauma management.

Proposed revalidation qualification for instructors

As part of the review, a revalidation qualification has been proposed to support Road Traffic Collision Instructors in maintaining their competencies over time.

Neil Pedersen, CEO at International Road Rescue and Trauma Consultancy Ltd, said: “The role of a Road Traffic Collision Instructor within fire and rescue requires ongoing development to remain aligned with evolving legislation, industry standards, and best practices.”

He added that the introduction of a revalidation qualification would support ongoing professional development: “This will help standardise ongoing professional development and reinforce the importance of continuous learning.”

Consultation open for sector feedback

The working group overseeing the review has conducted a five-month evaluation of the SFJ Awards Level 3 Award in Road Traffic Collision Instruction.

The consultation phase is now open for stakeholders to provide feedback on the proposed updates.

David Higham, Managing Director of SFJ Awards, said: “As an awarding body, it is our responsibility to review qualifications on a regular basis in collaboration with employers to ensure that they continue to serve their needs and the needs of the public.”

He stated that stakeholder input would help ensure the revised qualification remains aligned with sector needs and current best practices.

Deadline for consultation responses

Stakeholders have until 3 March to submit feedback on the proposed changes to the Road Traffic Collision Instructor training qualification.

SFJ Awards has invited responses from fire and rescue professionals and other relevant stakeholders.

Further details on the consultation can be found at: www.sfjawards.com/consultation-now-open-for-road-traffic-collision-instruction-qualification

UK fire services review road traffic collision instructor training amid evolving vehicle technology: Summary

SFJ Awards, in partnership with NFCC and the United Kingdom Rescue Organisation, has launched a review of Road Traffic Collision Instructor training in the UK fire and rescue services.

The review aims to update course content in response to evolving vehicle technology and safety standards.

A key proposal is the introduction of a revalidation qualification to support instructors in maintaining their competencies.

The consultation, which is open until 3 March, seeks stakeholder feedback to ensure the revised qualification aligns with sector needs.

Fire and rescue professionals are encouraged to participate in the consultation via the SFJ Awards website.

NFCC and Worshipful Company of Firefighters partner to support UK Fire Cadets

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking News

Agreement signed to expand opportunities for Fire Cadets

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) and the Worshipful Company of Firefighters (WCoFF) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance support for UK Fire Cadets.

The agreement was signed at the Guildhall in London by NFCC’s CEO Susannah Hancock and Professor David Holt from WCoFF.

Fire Cadets from London Fire Brigade Fire Cadet units were present as witnesses.

NFCC stated that while WCoFF has previously collaborated with individual Fire Cadet units, this agreement will broaden engagement across the UK, providing cadets with increased learning and development opportunities.

Worshipful Company of Firefighters to serve as Ambassadors

The Worshipful Company of Firefighters works to promote firefighting, fire prevention, and life safety.

Under the new partnership, WCoFF representatives will act as Ambassadors, sharing expertise with Fire Cadets across the UK.

This role aims to enhance cadets’ understanding of the fire and rescue sector, including firefighting’s evolution and its role in public safety.

NFCC’s Lead for Fire Cadets and Chief Fire Officer at Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue Service, Mark Baxter, said: “The UK Fire Cadets are proud to be in partnership with the Worshipful Company of Firefighters to provide support and development for our young people.

“This partnership will provide valuable experiences for our Cadets that align to our shared support of delivering fire sector-related objectives.”

Collaboration to focus on engagement and inclusivity

The partnership aims to inspire and support young people by creating an inclusive and supportive environment within the Fire Cadets Programme.

NFCC said the collaboration will encourage fire and rescue services to work with WCoFF and its Ambassadors to enhance cadets’ learning and development.

The initiative also seeks to ensure that enjoyment and skill-building remain central to the programme.

Baxter added: “I am extremely grateful to the Worshipful Company of Firefighters for offering their support to our Cadets in promoting their valuable work and opening up opportunities for much-needed funding in key areas to help sustain the great work our Cadets do within our communities.”

Supporting young people through the Fire Cadets Programme

NFCC stated that Fire Cadets provides opportunities for young people from all backgrounds to engage with the fire and rescue service while developing essential life skills.

National UK Fire Cadets Manager Gary Williams said: “Fire Cadets provides an amazing opportunity, not only for young people from all backgrounds to engage with the fire and rescue service but also to help them develop and gain essential life skills.

“We are grateful for the support of the Worshipful Company of Firefighters to help us achieve these aims and provide the UK Fire Cadet experience to even more young people moving forward.”

NFCC and Worshipful Company of Firefighters partner to support UK Fire Cadets: Summary

NFCC and WCoFF have signed an MoU to expand support for Fire Cadets across the UK.

The agreement was signed in London by NFCC’s CEO Susannah Hancock and WCoFF’s Professor David Holt, with Fire Cadets from London Fire Brigade units witnessing the signing.

NFCC stated that while WCoFF has worked with individual cadet units before, this partnership formalises and broadens engagement.

WCoFF representatives will act as Ambassadors, sharing expertise and promoting career development opportunities.

The partnership aims to enhance Fire Cadets’ understanding of the fire and rescue sector while fostering inclusive learning environments.

NFCC’s Lead for Fire Cadets, Mark Baxter, said the collaboration will provide valuable experiences and access to additional funding.

National UK Fire Cadets Manager Gary Williams said the initiative will help expand the programme to reach more young people.

NFCC stated that the agreement aligns with efforts to support skill development and community engagement within the Fire Cadets Programme.

NFCC outlines next steps for cultural change in fire and rescue sector

by Breaking NewsFeatured News

NFCC report calls for major cultural change in UK fire services

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has published a report from the Independent Challenge and Support Panel, which was established in July 2023 to provide external scrutiny on workplace culture and inclusion across UK fire and rescue services (FRSs).

The panel’s findings, released alongside a response from NFCC Chair Mark Hardingham, call for “disruptive change” to ensure FRSs become more inclusive workplaces.

The report warns that without sustained focus and leadership willing to challenge existing systems, progress will remain limited.

Leadership urged to take further action

The panel’s report acknowledges leadership efforts in addressing workplace culture but stresses that more needs to be done.

It highlights the need for leaders to drive improvements beyond policies and rhetoric, tackling issues such as racism and misogyny within the sector.

Anthea Sully, Chair of the Independent Challenge and Support Panel, said: “Despite progress, we are clear that further action is still needed to root out racism, misogyny, and other unacceptable behaviours in the workplace.

“This will require leaders and staff to challenge traditional ways of working and embrace tangible action, going beyond rhetoric.”

NFCC commits to implementing recommendations

NFCC Chair Mark Hardingham confirmed that the organisation fully accepts the panel’s calls to action and will incorporate them into the next phase of the NFCC Culture Action Plan, set for publication in May.

Hardingham said: “NFCC fully accepts all the calls to action set out in the report and we are committed to delivering against them in partnership with fire and rescue services and national sector partners.”

He added that while progress has been made, “there is still much to do” to ensure change is embedded consistently across all services.

Next steps in cultural improvement efforts

As part of its review process, the panel engaged with NFCC leadership, Chief Fire Officers, senior leaders, and fire sector partners, as well as hearing testimony from FRS staff.

It also visited three fire and rescue services to assess progress on inclusion and workplace culture initiatives.

The report outlines specific recommendations for the NFCC, government, and other national fire bodies to continue driving improvement.

It calls for a sustained commitment to cultural change, ensuring that fire services provide a safe and inclusive working environment for all employees.

NFCC report calls for major cultural change in UK fire services: Summary

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has published a report from the Independent Challenge and Support Panel, established in July 2023 to provide external scrutiny of workplace culture in UK fire and rescue services (FRSs).

The report highlights the need for “disruptive change” and sustained leadership to make FRSs more inclusive workplaces.

The panel’s findings acknowledge progress but stress that further action is required to address issues such as racism and misogyny.

NFCC Chair Mark Hardingham confirmed that NFCC will incorporate the report’s recommendations into the next phase of its Culture Action Plan, due for publication in May.

The panel engaged with NFCC leadership, Chief Fire Officers, and fire sector partners, as well as conducting site visits to assess workplace culture.

The report calls for continued commitment from NFCC, government, and other national bodies to ensure long-term cultural improvements.

NFCC Apprenticeship Awards 2025 celebrates achievements in fire and rescue services

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

Apprentices and trainers recognised at NFCC Apprenticeship Awards 2025

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has recognised apprentices and training providers in the fire and rescue sector at the NFCC Apprenticeship Awards 2025.

The awards took place in London on 10 February during National Apprenticeship Week, which runs from 10-16 February.

NFCC launched the awards in 2024 to highlight the contributions apprentices make in fire and rescue services across the UK and to promote apprenticeship opportunities in the sector.

NFCC highlights apprenticeship achievements in fire and rescue

A total of 78 nominations were received from 21 fire and rescue services across the UK, competing in six award categories.

Gavin Ellis, Chief Fire Officer of Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service and NFCC Lead on Apprenticeships, said: “By promoting excellence in fire apprenticeships, the awards not only inspire fire and rescue services to put a greater emphasis on apprenticeships but also contribute to the continual improvement of training standards across the country.”

Phil Garrigan, Chief Fire Officer of Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service and NFCC Vice-Chair, added: “These awards showcase the work of our apprenticeships within fire and rescue services and recognise their outstanding achievements and contributions.”

NFCC Apprenticeship Network supports skills development

The event was organised by the NFCC Events team alongside Ashley Roberts, NFCC’s Apprenticeship Deputy Lead, as part of efforts to support and promote the NFCC Apprenticeship Network.

The network brings together apprenticeship professionals, training providers, and assessment organisations to share best practices, resources, and opportunities for growth.

The awards were supported by Fire Minister, The Rt Hon Dame Diana Johnson DBE MP, who provided a video message congratulating the nominees and winners.

NFCC Apprenticeship Awards 2025 winners announced

The awards recognised individuals and teams across six categories:

  • Apprenticeship Champion Award:
    • Winner: Niamh Errington, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service
    • Runner-up: Steve Smith, Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service
    • Highly Commended: Samuel Sansome, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service
  • Excellence in Apprenticeship Support:
    • Winner: Learning and Development Team, Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service
    • Runner-up: Joanne Dodge, West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service
    • Highly Commended: Protection Learning: People Development Team, West Midlands Fire Service
  • Inclusion Champion Award:
    • Winner: Scott Fretton, Essex County Fire and Rescue Service
    • Runner-up: Shaun Carr, Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service
  • Apprenticeship Provider of the Year:
    • Winner: Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service
    • Runner-up: Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service
    • Highly Commended: Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service
  • Non-Operational Apprentice of the Year:
    • Winner: Denise Bowman, Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service
    • Runner-up: Isabel Carroll, Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service
    • Highly Commended: Nikki Burns, Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service
  • Operational Apprentice of the Year:
    • Winner: Emma Rose Illington, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service
    • Runner-up: Cameron Nutter, Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service
    • Highly Commended: Harry Weavers, Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service

NFCC Apprenticeship Awards 2025: Summary

The NFCC Apprenticeship Awards 2025 took place on 10 February in London during National Apprenticeship Week.

The awards were introduced in 2024 to recognise apprentices and training providers in the UK fire and rescue sector.

A total of 78 nominations were submitted from 21 fire and rescue services across six categories.

NFCC Lead on Apprenticeships Gavin Ellis and NFCC Vice-Chair Phil Garrigan emphasised the importance of apprenticeships in supporting skills development within fire and rescue services.

The event was organised by the NFCC Events team and the NFCC Apprenticeship Network, which aims to promote best practices and collaboration across the sector.

Fire Minister The Rt Hon Dame Diana Johnson DBE MP provided a video message supporting the awards.

Winners were announced across categories including Apprenticeship Champion Award, Excellence in Apprenticeship Support, Inclusion Champion Award, Apprenticeship Provider of the Year, Non-Operational Apprentice of the Year, and Operational Apprentice of the Year.

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.

NFCC warns of financial strain on UK fire and rescue services

by Featured News

NFCC responds to local government finance settlement

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has expressed concern over the 2025/26 Local Government Finance Settlement, citing funding challenges for UK fire and rescue services.

NFCC Chair Mark Hardingham stated: “As the professional voice of the UK fire and rescue service we are compelled to express our disappointment with this year’s financial settlement and the impact that it will have on fire and rescue services.”

While acknowledging the government’s decision to increase the Council Tax Precept, Hardingham pointed to a loss of government grants and rising employer national insurance contributions, resulting in a below-inflation increase in spending power for some fire and rescue services.

He noted that these factors could lead to real-term budget reductions.

Increasing financial pressures on fire and rescue services

The NFCC highlighted growing financial pressures due to multiple demands on fire and rescue services.

Hardingham pointed to the ongoing response to the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 recommendations, as well as the increasing risks from climate change-related extreme weather events such as floods, storms and wildfires.

New challenges, including incidents involving emerging technologies and fire safety regulation in complex buildings, are also contributing to resource pressures.

Hardingham said: “This evolving picture of risk comes against the backdrop of operating with significantly reduced resources that impacts upon the ability of fire and rescue services to keep communities safe.”

Declining resources and rising incident numbers

The NFCC noted that fire and rescue services are operating with fewer resources while responding to a growing number of incidents.

Over the last 17 years, the number of firefighters has decreased by 25%, while the volume of incidents has increased by 18% over the past decade.

Hardingham said this situation is limiting the ability of fire and rescue services to effectively respond to emergencies and maintain public safety.

Lack of capital funding for infrastructure

The NFCC also raised concerns over the continued absence of capital funding for fire and rescue services, which it said restricts investment in infrastructure, decontamination procedures, training facilities, and recruitment efforts.

Hardingham said: “The capacity to invest in the future and upgrade what, for some, are dilapidated fire stations is also undermined by the absence of any capital funding for fire and rescue services for yet another year – something we had hoped this settlement would address.”

He added that without capital investment, fire and rescue services will struggle to modernise facilities, accommodate safety improvements, and support net-zero targets.

NFCC warns of impact on public safety

Hardingham called for increased investment in fire and rescue services, urging the government to address funding concerns in the upcoming Comprehensive Spending Review.

He said: “The upcoming Comprehensive Spending Review presents another opportunity to address these concerns.

Our message is simple – without reversing years of under-investment in the sector, public safety is at risk.”

NFCC warns of financial strain on UK fire and rescue services: Summary

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has raised concerns over the 2025/26 Local Government Finance Settlement, warning that fire and rescue services in the UK face financial strain.

NFCC Chair Mark Hardingham said that while the government has allowed an increase in the Council Tax Precept, a reduction in government grants and increased employer national insurance contributions have left some services with a below-inflation rise in spending power.

The NFCC highlighted pressures from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 recommendations, climate change-related incidents, and fire safety regulation.

It also noted that firefighter numbers have dropped by 25% over 17 years, while incident numbers have risen by 18% over the past decade.

The absence of capital funding was cited as a barrier to upgrading fire stations and training facilities.

The NFCC called on the government to address these funding concerns in the Comprehensive Spending Review, warning of potential risks to public safety.

New qualification supports UK fire services in working with young people

by Featured NewsTraining

Specialist training launched for fire and rescue services

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has introduced a new qualification to enhance fire and rescue services’ (FRS) engagement with children and young people.

The ‘Level 2 Award in Fire & Rescue Service – Introduction to Working with Children and Young People’ was developed as part of the NFCC Prevention Hub, which focuses on a person-centred approach to fire safety in the community.

According to the NFCC, the qualification covers topics including child development, trauma-informed practice, and communication. It is being piloted and rolled out in February, with the first session taking place in Merseyside.

Collaboration between NFCC and SFJ Awards

The qualification was created with input from FRS employers and SFJ Awards, an Ofqual-regulated awarding organisation.

David Higham, Managing Director of SFJ Awards, said: “Interacting with children and young people is a central part of FRS work in terms of prevention as well as in the daily course of business for certain roles.

“This qualification sets a path to enable FRS staff and volunteers to carry out these activities to a standardised level of knowledge and skill.”

Standardised training for fire and rescue personnel

NFCC Chief Executive Officer Susannah Hancock said: “This is a really positive development that will help fire and rescue services engage with and support young people in their communities.”

She added that the qualification aims to provide consistency in training: “It will give those working towards the qualification the confidence that they’re receiving training to a consistent national standard, which has been developed in consultation with their peers.”

Qualification details and rollout

The qualification is open to FRS staff and volunteers who work with children and young people. The course requires 20 hours of total qualification time, including 14 hours of guided learning.

Training will be delivered through a three-day ‘train the trainer’ programme across four UK regions in spring and summer 2025. Booking details have been shared with relevant fire and rescue services.

New qualification supports UK fire services in working with young people: Summary

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has introduced a new qualification to support UK fire and rescue services in working with children and young people. Developed in collaboration with SFJ Awards, the Level 2 Award in Fire & Rescue Service – Introduction to Working with Children and Young People aims to provide standardised training on child development, trauma-informed practice, and communication.

The qualification is available to staff and volunteers within UK fire and rescue services, with the first pilot session taking place in Merseyside in February. Training will be delivered via a three-day ‘train the trainer’ programme across four regions in spring and summer 2025. Booking information has been provided to relevant services.