NFCC welcomes new provision for sprinklers in all new care homes

by ActiveFeatured NewsFire SuppressionFire Suppression

The UK National Fire Chiefs Council has welcomed the recent announcement that sprinklers will be mandatory in all new care homes. The Government made the announcement in a Ministerial Statement published last week, with the provision being made through an update to Approved Document B, which gives guidance on building regulations relating to fire safety matters in England.

NFCC has been calling for strengthening of sprinklers requirements in care homes for many years, most recently in the updated Automatic Water Suppression Systems (AWSS) policy statement published in May.

Responding to the announcement, NFCC Lead for Sprinklers and AWSS, Jonathan Dyson, said:

“NFCC welcomes the announcement that all new care homes in England will be required to have sprinklers installed.

“The use of sprinklers in care homes reduces the likelihood of a fire spreading beyond the room of origin. This buys crucial time for evacuation and firefighting and can reduce the need for unnecessary movement of residents who may also be more vulnerable to fire due to age, mobility issues or cognitive impairments. There have been several high-profile fires in care homes across England in the last 10 years. In many of these cases there were no sprinkler systems in place and it was not possible for firefighters to fully mitigate the effects of serious fires that resulted in lives being lost, serious injury, and major property damage.

“The recent announcement recognises and addresses the serious concerns we have had about fire safety in care homes. It is a measure that the NFCC and fire and rescue services have long called for to help protect vulnerable residents and staff.”

NFCC urges government for statutory duties on flooding and water safety for UK fire and rescue services

by Breaking NewsSafetyWildland Fire

NFCC calls for statutory duties on flooding and inland water safety response in England

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has issued a call for statutory duties on flooding and inland water safety response in England.

This follows the publication of three policy position statements aimed at addressing the impact of wildfires, flooding, and the effects of increased rainfall and extreme heat on inland water safety.

The NFCC has urged the UK Government to consult on introducing statutory duties for flooding response and inland water safety in England, to ensure that fire and rescue services (FRSs) across the UK can provide a coordinated and effective response to the rising risks posed by climate change.

The NFCC’s call is based on the rising frequency of extreme weather events, such as wildfires and flooding, and their impact on public safety.

NFCC Chair, Mark Hardingham, said: “We’re witnessing more extreme weather across the globe.

“The recent wildfires in Greece serve as a reminder of the impact of extreme weather.

“In the UK, we experienced heatwaves in 2022 which saw wildfires impact urban areas on a scale not seen before, and last year Storm Babet saw hundreds of homes and businesses flooded and seven people lose their lives.”

Wildfires and the need for improved wildfire preparedness and response

In addition to flooding and inland water safety, NFCC has drawn attention to the increasing prevalence of wildfires in the UK.

Climate change has led to more frequent and intense wildfires, with over 1,500 wildfires reported in England and Wales since 2021.

NFCC’s position is that responding to wildfires is not a specifically funded capability and instead falls under the general FRS duty to extinguish fires, despite the growing challenges these incidents present.

NFCC is calling for the UK Government to keep funding for wildfire preparedness and response under review, ensuring that resources are adequate.

NFCC also emphasises the need for more consistent data collection at the national level, to improve the forecasting of wildfire risks.

The council has recommended that UK Governments adopt a consistent definition of wildfires, which would aid in collecting and analysing relevant data.

Hardingham stated: “With risks around extreme weather increasing, we need better data collection to help us develop our response and work efficiently with other agencies so that we are in the best position to protect the public.”

Rising flood risks and the call for statutory duty for flood response in England

Flooding is another area of concern raised by NFCC.

Although fire and rescue services in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have statutory duties to respond to flooding, no such duty exists in England.

The UK Health Security Agency estimates that 6.1 million people in the UK are at significant risk of flooding, with projections indicating that this number could rise to between 9.8 million and 13.3 million by 2050.

NFCC has highlighted the challenges that FRSs in England face due to the absence of statutory duties for flood response, including discrepancies in training, equipment, and standards across regions.

NFCC is advocating for the introduction of statutory duties for flood response in England, alongside sustained funding to support the necessary training and equipment.

Without this, NFCC warns that FRSs in England may fall behind those in other parts of the UK in terms of preparedness and capability.

Hardingham added: “The absence of a statutory duty to respond to flooding and inland water incidents in England challenges our ability to ensure our services are prepared, with the appropriate equipment and training in place.”

Inland water safety and the risks posed by climate change

The NFCC’s third policy position statement addresses inland water safety, highlighting the rising risks posed by increased rainfall and higher summer temperatures due to climate change.

According to the National Water Safety Forum, recreational activities accounted for 58% of accidental drowning fatalities in the UK in 2022.

With the number of inland water incidents increasing, the NFCC is urging the government to consider statutory duties for FRSs in England to respond to water-related emergencies and undertake prevention activities.

The lack of a statutory duty in England limits the investment that FRSs can allocate towards inland water safety efforts.

NFCC believes that aligning responsibilities across the UK would help create consistency in the safety and preparedness of FRSs.

Furthermore, NFCC is advocating for clearer reporting requirements for water-related incidents, to ensure better data collection and improve prevention strategies.

NFCC’s position is that: “Establishing statutory duties in England is not about shifting responsibility from land and site owners and managers.

“It is about improving the overall capability and readiness of fire and rescue authorities.”

NFCC urges government for statutory duties on flooding and water safety for UK fire and rescue services: Summary

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has called on the UK Government to introduce statutory duties for fire and rescue services (FRSs) in England to respond to flooding and inland water safety incidents.

The NFCC’s position is based on the increasing risks posed by climate change, which have led to more frequent wildfires, flooding, and water safety incidents.

NFCC emphasises the need for sustained funding and consistent data collection to improve the preparedness of FRSs and ensure a coordinated response to these incidents.

Currently, statutory duties exist in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, but not in England, leading to disparities in safety and preparedness across the UK.

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.

NFCC responds to misconduct handling report by HMICFRS

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking News

HMICFRS report highlights misconduct issues in UK fire and rescue services

A report published today by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) has outlined new recommendations for improving how misconduct is handled in fire and rescue services.

Mark Hardingham, Chair of the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), responded to the report, recognising both the progress made and the areas needing further improvement.

Hardingham noted that culture change within the fire and rescue services is a gradual process.

He stated: “We welcome today’s report from His Majesty’s Inspectorate and the new recommendations it sets out to improve the way that misconduct is handled.”

He acknowledged that while there have been positive signs of change, more work is necessary to address lingering issues of unacceptable behaviour.

NFCC Culture Action Plan and ongoing efforts

Since the NFCC launched its Culture Action Plan last year, there have been efforts to confront discrimination, bullying, and harassment within the sector.

The plan aims to share positive practices and implement actionable measures to tackle misconduct.

Hardingham emphasised the importance of collaboration and learning from lived experiences to achieve real and lasting change.

He said: “Since the launch of NFCC’s Culture Action Plan last year, we have sought to bring the sector together to confront discrimination, bullying and harassment, to share positive practice, and to execute actionable plans to tackle misconduct.”

The independent Challenge and Support Panel has also highlighted the need for better support for services to handle misconduct more consistently.

Funding and support for cultural change

The report also touches on the necessity of sustainable funding to support cultural changes within fire and rescue services.

Some recommendations, such as establishing dedicated Professional Standards functions, require additional funding.

Hardingham noted the importance of adequate funding to achieve the report’s ambitions and recommendations.

He stated: “To realise the ambitions set out in the report and its recommendations, for example in establishing dedicated Professional Standards functions, then fire and rescue services will need to be sustainably funded both now and in future years.”

Call for updating the National Framework

In May, the Home Affairs Select Committee recommended updating the National Framework to address the challenges of poor culture, bullying, and harassment, with a specific focus on cultural change.

Hardingham agreed with this recommendation, noting that today’s report reinforces the need for these updates.

He concluded: “We agree and today’s report further reinforces the case for that change.”

NFCC Culture Conference 2024: Addressing Challenges and Promoting Inclusion

by Associations and OrganisationsEventsFeatured News

NFCC Culture Conference 2024 unites fire service leaders to address cultural challenges

The second NFCC Culture Conference, held on July 15-16 in Birmingham, gathered leaders and practitioners from the Fire and Rescue Service along with other stakeholders to address cultural challenges within the UK Fire and Rescue Service.

The event aimed to share learning and identify actions to improve inclusivity and diversity across the sector.

Chief Fire Officer Kath Billing of Cornwall FRS and NFCC EDI Lead opened the conference, highlighting the need for an inclusive work environment.

NFCC Chair Mark Hardingham emphasized listening to those with lived experiences of negative aspects of fire service culture, underscoring the importance of honesty in addressing these issues.

Anthea Sully, CEO of White Ribbon and chair of the NFCC Independent Challenge and Support Panel, delivered the keynote address, drawing parallels between White Ribbon’s prevention work and the need for cultural reform in the fire sector.

HMICFRS’s Roy Wilsher presented an update on the State of FRS report, noting improvements in some services due to effective leadership.

However, he also pointed out ongoing issues with diversity and inclusion affecting trust and confidence.

Martin Jefferies from the Defence Academy emphasized the necessity of inclusive leadership for driving culture change.

New initiatives and tools for cultural improvement

The conference also focused on the NFCC Culture Action Plan and tools to support a more inclusive and safer workplace.

CFO Rob Barber discussed the Direct Entry programme, which aims to introduce new ideas by bringing in experienced professionals at the station manager level.

Barber stated: “We can bring new ideas into the sector that drive change and challenge the status quo.”

Three new resources were introduced to aid in cultural improvement: the Culture Dashboard Methodology, the Health and Wellbeing Strategic Framework, and the Challenging Inappropriate Behaviour Toolkit.

These tools are designed to help services understand and improve their culture, promote health and wellbeing, and empower employees to address harmful behaviour.

Interactive sessions during the conference allowed participants to engage with these new resources and discuss their implementation, along with previously launched toolkits on menopause, religion and belief, and disability.

Imagining our future – inclusive culture

Day two of the conference began with a presentation by Siobhan Melia, CEO of Sussex Community NHS Foundation Trust.

She discussed the importance of systematic change across the ecosystem to transform culture, balancing people metrics with performance metrics.

Her session offered practical lessons on cultural change in complex organisations.

Representatives from the Inclusive Fire Service Group (IFSG), including Ben Selby of the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) and Sarah Ward from the Local Government Association (LGA), discussed the history and initiatives of IFSG.

They highlighted the need for proactive collaboration to move from reports and surveys to actionable solutions.

Case studies from CFOs Andy Roe, Ben Ansell, and Stuart Millington showcased responses to independent culture reviews, detailing improvement plans and challenges faced.

The lived experience panel, chaired by NFCC CEO Susannah Hancock, featured representatives from key organisations sharing personal stories and cultural priorities.

The session emphasized the need for ongoing dialogue and regular meetings to shape NFCC’s work.

Continuing the journey towards cultural change

The conference concluded with NFCC Chair Mark Hardingham reiterating the priority of culture and inclusion.

He stressed the importance of partnership in achieving the necessary changes.

The NFCC Culture Conference highlighted the progress made and the critical steps needed to foster a more inclusive culture within the UK Fire and Rescue Services.

The commitment to work together to deliver lasting cultural change was reaffirmed as the conference drew to a close.

NFCC Culture and Inclusion Conference 2024 comes to Birmingham

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

Day one: Reflecting on progress and sector updates

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) is scheduled to host its second Culture and Inclusion Conference on 15th and 16th July in Birmingham.

As reported by the NFCC, this event will gather leaders and professionals from the UK Fire and Rescue Service and wider partners to promote inclusivity and equity within the sector.

The first day will focus on the progress since the 2023 Culture Conference and the launch of the NFCC Culture Action Plan.

Keynote speaker Anthea Sully, CEO of White Ribbon and Chair of the NFCC Independent Challenge and Support Panel, will address the attendees.

His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services will also provide updates on the State of Fire and Rescue report, misconduct thematic inspections, and the Values and Culture spotlight report recommendations.

Day two: Future work and shared learning

Day two will be dedicated to future initiatives necessary for lasting change.

Siobhan Melia, Chief Executive at Sussex Community NHS Trust, will deliver a keynote address focusing on culture change in ambulance services, sharing valuable lessons learned.

The agenda will also feature a shared learning session with insights from services that have undergone independent culture reviews.

A lived experiences panel will allow networks and organisations representing those with lived experience to contribute to shaping future initiatives.

Opportunities for collaboration and ongoing culture and inclusion change

The Culture and Inclusion Conference provides an essential platform for fire and rescue services and partners to share learning and good practice.

The event aims to identify next steps for continued progress in this critical work.

While a single conference cannot achieve transformation alone, the NFCC hopes that the discussions and shared experiences will act as catalysts for ongoing improvement across the sector.

The effort to foster cultural change is recognised as a collective endeavour that extends beyond NFCC’s initiatives to include local and national contributions from the sector and its partners.

Fire and water safety urged as UK weather improves

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetySafety

Fire services warn of increased fire risks with improved UK weather

As reported by the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS), and London Fire Brigade (LFB), the improving UK weather has prompted warnings about fire and water safety.

With rising temperatures, there is an expected increase in outdoor fires and water rescue incidents.

The NFCC advises that small outdoor fires can lead to wildfires, often started by human activities such as using barbecues and campfires in open areas, and improper disposal of cigarettes and glass.

To reduce the risk, the NFCC recommends having campfires and barbecues only in designated areas, never leaving them unattended, and ensuring they are fully extinguished with water.

They also advise against setting off sky lanterns and stress the importance of disposing of smoking materials safely.

The NIFRS emphasises the importance of not starting open fires and acting responsibly by extinguishing cigarettes and taking home litter.

They urge the public to park responsibly to ensure access for emergency services.

Water safety concerns highlighted

London Fire Brigade has attended over 30 water-related incidents this year and is concerned that these numbers may rise with the warmer weather.

Teenage boys are particularly at risk of accidental drowning, especially with the end of the exam season.

During Drowning Prevention Week, the Brigade encouraged local authorities to assess the safety of waterways and ensure life-saving equipment is available.

Assistant Commissioner for Prevention & Protection at LFB, Craig Carter, stated: “Despite the warm weather, London’s waterways are still cold enough to cause cold water shock, affecting a person’s ability to swim and increasing the risk of drowning.”

He advises against jumping into water to cool off and promotes the “float to live” technique to survive cold water shock.

The NFCC and NIFRS both provide similar water safety advice, urging people to avoid drinking alcohol before swimming, to actively supervise children near water, and to call 999 if someone is in trouble.

They also advise telling the person to float on their back and throwing them something that floats.

Outdoor safety tips

The NFCC’s Wildfire Aware campaign aims to reduce wildfire risks by educating the public on fire safety.

They advise keeping barbecues and fire pits away from flammable materials and ensuring ashes are cold before disposal.

They also recommend fitting smoke alarms and fire extinguishers on boats, caravans, and mobile homes.

The NIFRS advises the public to follow their summer safety tips, which include never lighting a candle or any flame inside or near a tent, cooking outside and away from the tent, and storing flammable liquids or gas cylinders safely.

They also stress the importance of having a fire escape plan and fitting smoke alarms in caravans and mobile homes.

London Fire Brigade is working closely with councils to manage open spaces and reduce the risk of wildfires.

They caution against using disposable barbecues in parks and on balconies due to the fire risk and urge proper disposal of smoking materials and rubbish to prevent fires.

NFCC and BBC Morning Live emphasise smoke alarm safety

by Fire DetectionSafety

Smoke alarm safety advice from NFCC and BBC Morning Live

“We believe all homes should be protected by working smoke alarms.”

Jon Quinn, Chair of the NFCC’s Home Safety Committee

Last week, the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) partnered with the BBC’s Morning Live to highlight the importance of having functional smoke alarms in homes.

As reported by the National Fire Chiefs Council, DIY expert Wayne Perrey demonstrated to presenters Gethin Jones and Helen Skelton how to check if a smoke alarm is outdated.

The segment is available on the Morning Live website.

Perrey advised that all smoke alarms, whether hard-wired or battery-operated, should be replaced after 10 years or by the date indicated on the alarm’s base.

He explained that the sensor in smoke alarms degrades over time, which may impair its ability to detect smoke effectively, even if the test button works.

Smoke alarm regulations and maintenance requirements

In the UK, building regulations mandate the installation of smoke alarms in new homes, but these regulations vary by country.

Homeowners must check and replace alarms that have surpassed their 10-year lifecycle.

The Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations 2015, which apply to private rented homes, require landlords to replace smoke alarms as part of routine maintenance within the next 12 months, as these regulations approach their 10-year mark.

Further regulations introduced in England in 2022 extended the smoke alarm requirement to social rented accommodation.

Scotland and Wales have differing legislation, requiring interlinked alarms, while changes to regulations in Northern Ireland will come into effect later in 2024.

The NFCC welcomes these updates, aiming to ensure all homes in the UK are protected by smoke alarms.

Tenant and homeowner responsibilities

The NFCC advises tenants to ensure their landlords comply with the relevant laws in their country and to seek assistance from local fire and rescue services if necessary.

Regardless of the type of alarm or who installed it, all residents should test their smoke alarms monthly.

Tenants in rented homes are responsible for this task.

The NFCC recommends that batteries in battery-operated alarms be changed annually.

Additionally, smoke alarms should be purchased from reputable retailers, bearing the British Standards kite mark or the European Safety Mark.

Following the manufacturer’s instructions is crucial for optimal alarm performance.

Online home fire safety check tool

Jon Quinn, Chair of the NFCC’s Home Safety Committee, emphasised the importance of working smoke alarms: “We believe all homes should be protected by working smoke alarms.

“We urge people to check their alarms have not passed their 10-year expiry date and whether you are a homeowner or tenant you test them regularly, at least once a month.”

Quinn also encouraged completing an Online Home Fire Safety Check: “To reduce the risk of fire in the home we encourage people to complete an Online Home Fire Safety Check for yourself or your loved ones.

“It will provide simple steps and advice or even a visit from your local fire and rescue service to help keep you safe.”

The NFCC has collaborated with Fire Kills and Safelincs to develop this online tool, offering personalised fire safety advice and, if needed, arranging a home fire safety visit, which may include smoke alarm installation for homeowners.

King’s Birthday Honours celebrate dedication in fire and rescue services

by Featured NewsPeople

NFCC welcomes King’s Birthday Honours announcement

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has welcomed the King’s Birthday Honours announcement from His Majesty the King, which recognises several members of the fire and rescue services community.

As reported by the National Fire Chiefs Council, NFCC Chair, Mark Hardingham, praised the efforts of those recognised, highlighting their dedication to their work and leadership within the fire and rescue sector.

Hardingham stated: “I want to extend my congratulations to all members of our fire family who have received well-deserved recognition for their service, dedication, and leadership in the King’s Birthday Honours list today.”

Members honoured for their contributions

The King’s Birthday Honours list includes several notable members from the fire and rescue services who have been awarded for their exemplary service.

Paul Murphy, Area Manager at Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, received the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for his services to the citizens of Ukraine.

Richard Ogden, Chief Fire Officer of Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service and CEO and Co-Founder of Boxwise Charity Foundation, was also honoured with an MBE for his services to the community in Cumbria and to young people in the UK and abroad.

Other awardees include Simon Bacon, who received the British Empire Medal (BEM) for public service in Surrey and West Sussex, and Robert Chew, a firefighter at Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, recognised for his services to the community in Littleborough, Greater Manchester.

Recognition for public service and community impact

The honours list also highlighted individuals who have made significant contributions to public service and community safety.

Stephen Bousfield, Heritage and Ceremonial Services Coordinator and Fire Cadet Inspector at Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, received the BEM for his services to the community in Merseyside.

Paul Francis, Community Development and Safeguarding Manager at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, was awarded the BEM for his dedication to public safety.

The King’s Fire Service Medal (KFSM) was awarded to several distinguished individuals, including Robert Barber, Chief Fire Officer of Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service, and Dr.

Sabrina Cohen-Hatton, Chief Fire Officer of West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service.

Comments from the NFCC Chair

NFCC Chair, Mark Hardingham, expressed pride in the recognised members and their contributions: “These awards shine a spotlight on their efforts, their impact, and the difference they make in their communities across the country. They have done the UK fire and rescue service proud.”

He continued: “This is a reminder of how lucky we are that our sector continues to attract many dedicated individuals who go above and beyond every day to ensure the safety and well-being of those they serve.”

IFSJ Comment

This year’s King’s Birthday Honours list is a testament to the dedication and hard work of those within the fire and rescue services.

Recognising individuals from various regions and roles highlights the diverse contributions made by these professionals.

Each awardee has shown exceptional commitment to their community, whether through public service, safety initiatives, or leadership roles.

The inclusion of both long-serving members and those who have made significant impacts in specific areas illustrates the broad scope of influence that fire and rescue service personnel have.

The recognition from His Majesty the King brings attention to the often-overlooked efforts of these individuals and emphasises the importance of their roles in maintaining public safety and community well-being.

Internal governance and assurance standard launched by Fire Standards Board

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

“The Board welcomes the launch of the new Internal Governance and Assurance Fire Standard,” said Suzanne McCarthy

The Fire Standards Board (FSB) has published the seventeenth professional Fire Standard: Internal Governance and Assurance.

As reported by The NFCC, this new standard aims to ensure that fire and rescue services have robust internal governance structures and business planning processes.

These measures enable senior leaders to maintain comprehensive oversight of internal activities, ensuring effective operation.

The Fire Standard also outlines desired outcomes for internal change and improvement projects.

These projects should be managed through robust development, approval, and initiation processes to align with the service’s vision and strategic objectives.

Additionally, delivery and organisational development plans must be clear and understood by all within the service.

Development and leadership

The development of this standard was led by Chief Fire Officer (CFO) Sabrina Cohen-Hatton of West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service and Chair of NFCC’s Improvement Committee.

She collaborated with subject matter experts from the network of fire and rescue service audit teams and governance leads, Home Office specialists, and other key stakeholders.

Cohen-Hatton stated: “I’m proud to have led the development of this new Fire Standard which will support all fire and rescue services to follow a consistent and robust process when developing internal governance and assurance procedures.”

She added that achieving this standard will foster internal cultures and positive working environments open to learning, self-evaluation, and feedback, leading to a more productive, motivated, and efficient workforce.

Expected benefits and tools

One of the expected benefits of achieving the Internal Governance and Assurance Fire Standard is the improvement of governance, internal culture, and increased transparency within fire and rescue services.

To support services in implementing the standard, a corresponding Fire Standards Implementation Tool has been provided.

This tool helps services understand how well they meet the standard, embed it into existing and new action plans, and address any gaps.

Suzanne McCarthy, Chair of the Fire Standards Board, expressed her support: “The Board welcomes the launch of the new Internal Governance and Assurance Fire Standard and recognises the contribution it will bring to fire and rescue services and the communities they serve.

“The standard builds on our portfolio of comprehensive and professional Fire Standards which ultimately help support the safety, health and well-being of the public via English fire and rescue services.”

The role of the FSB and future outlook

The Fire Standards Board continues to develop and implement standards aimed at enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of fire and rescue services.

This new standard adds to the existing suite, further promoting a culture of continuous improvement and accountability.

As fire and rescue services work towards implementing this standard, the focus will be on improving internal processes and fostering a transparent and accountable culture.

The ultimate goal is to ensure that these services can effectively serve and protect their communities.

IFSJ Comment

The introduction of the Internal Governance and Assurance Fire Standard marks a strategic move by the Fire Standards Board to enhance the governance frameworks within fire and rescue services.

This new standard addresses critical aspects of internal operations, ensuring that services are aligned with their strategic objectives and fostering a culture of transparency and accountability.

By providing a structured approach to internal governance, the standard aims to improve the overall efficiency of fire and rescue services.

The involvement of subject matter experts and key stakeholders in developing the standard underscores its comprehensive nature and relevance to current operational needs.

The accompanying Implementation Tool is a practical resource that will aid services in evaluating their compliance with the standard and integrating it into their action plans.