New Scotland wildfire strategy launched after record 2025 fire season

by Featured NewsWildland Fire

Scotland action plan sets out wildfire response changes

A new strategic action plan has been launched to strengthen wildfire prevention, preparedness and response across Scotland following the country’s most severe wildfire season in recent memory.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) said the plan is designed to improve coordination between agencies, expand operational capability and increase public awareness of wildfire risk.

Scotland’s high-risk wildfire period, traditionally between March and May, has expanded in recent years.

Firefighters spent more than 100 days responding to more than 230 wildfires during 2025.

The executive summary of the Wildfires: strategic action plan records 241 wildfires during the year, including the Carrbridge and Dava Moor fire which burned nearly 10,000 hectares and is described as the UK’s largest recorded wildfire.

The plan was developed in partnership with SFRS with input from His Majesty’s Fire Service Inspectorate alongside other stakeholders.

It sets out coordinated actions under three areas covering prevention, preparedness and response.

Measures include strengthening public awareness of wildfire risks, investing in wildfire vehicles and equipment and developing a multi-agency Concept of Operations ahead of the 2026 wildfire season.

Local and regional Incident Response Plans will also be enhanced to strengthen protection for responders, rural communities and Scotland’s natural environment during periods of heightened wildfire activity.

Additional actions include reviewing and expanding the Community Asset Register and examining a mountain rescue-style approach to trained wildfire volunteers with a potential trial in Cairngorms National Park.

Scotland equipment investment and operational preparation

SFRS said it reviewed the 2025 wildfire season and has invested in equipment, training and specialist capability.

Four new wildfire support units with enhanced equipment have been placed in Alford, Oban, Galashiels and Dornoch.

Two interim wildfire units have also been introduced in Lockerbie and Thurso.

Controlled burn training is being delivered to support operational readiness.

The service worked with partners to review wildfire incidents from 2025 through the Scottish Multi-Agency Resilience Training and Exercising Unit (SMARTEU).

Recommendations from the SMARTEU debrief will be progressed through the Scottish Wildfire Forum.

More than 30 fire stations across Scotland are already equipped with dedicated wildfire resources.

Wildfire tactical advisers are also available to provide strategic support during incidents.

To inform the public, SFRS issues Wildfire Danger Assessments through its website and social media channels when weather conditions increase wildfire risk.

SFRS Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Kenny Barbour said: “Wildfires continue to pose an increasing threat to Scotland’s rural communities and natural environment.

“We welcome the strategic action plan, which is an essential step in ensuring our firefighters, land managers, public bodies and partners can enhance their collective response to wildfires.

“It is vital for everyone to play their part in protecting Scotland’s natural environment with responsible outdoor behaviour.

“Never assume a small fire, like a campfire or portable BBQ, is safe and harmless.

“The smallest spark or ember in dry conditions can quickly lead to wildfire destroying large parts of the countryside.”

Scotland ministers link plan to future wildfire preparedness

SFRS said Minister for Community Safety Siobhian Brown and Agriculture Minister Jim Fairlie joined the service at Pitlochry fire station to present wildfire appliances and equipment as the annual wildfire awareness campaign launched alongside the action plan.

Brown said: “Last year’s wildfires were a warning that we must be prepared for this to be a more regular occurrence as a result of climate change.

“The strategic action plan will improve coordination between the SFRS and other responders during wildfires and includes the development of Incident Response Plans to strengthen the protection of responders, rural communities, and the natural environment during periods of heightened wildfire activity.

“It will also see the Community Asset Register – a list of volunteers and equipment to help with wildfire response – reviewed and expanded.”

Fairlie said: “All of us who saw the devastation caused by last year’s fires know that it took an incredible effort to get them under control and I would like to repeat our thanks to all the SFRS staff, landowners, managers, keepers and workers who stepped in.

“So many communities stepped up to save their local landscape and the species that live there and this plan is intended to help us better prepare for the future.

“Each of us has a part to play in preventing wildfires and must be mindful of their behaviour when enjoying our wonderful countryside during the dry months to ensure we do not do anything or leave behind litter that could ignite a fire.”

The strategic action plan sets out a coordinated approach intended to strengthen Scotland’s wildfire resilience ahead of the 2026 wildfire season and in future years.

Exxon Mobil site upgrade uses over 800 Hyfire wireless fire devices

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProjects

800 devices, six weeks: Hyfire Taurus installed at Beverkae House

Vipond installed more than 800 Hyfire Taurus wireless devices at Beverkae House at Exxon Mobil, according to a case study published by Hyfire.

The work took place at the Fife Ethylene Plant (FEP) in Scotland, operated by ExxonMobil Chemical.

The case study says the aim was to upgrade the site’s fire safety system while keeping day-to-day operations running.

Installation approach and project timeline

Hyfire said the site was running on a Hyfire Static system before the upgrade, which supported a transition to the Taurus wireless network.

Vipond installer John Currie said: “This project was both vast and highly sensitive, as leaving the plant without a working fire alarm system would have been incredibly dangerous.

“Hyfire’s incredible versatility and ease of installation allowed us to seamlessly upgrade their system without interrupting day-to-day operations.”

Installers downloaded the system configuration from the previous system and checked for channel crossover during the Taurus installation.

More than 800 devices were installed in six weeks.

Why Taurus was selected for this site

Hyfire described Taurus as suited for larger sites with high reliability, low false alarms and long battery life.

The case study added that Taurus can support sites with many devices and more complex buildings.

Vipond’s installation used Taurus devices across the plant, the case study said.

The case study presented the project as a site-wide upgrade delivered within the existing operating environment.

Wildfires, batteries and floods: What Scotland’s fire service annual performance review reveals

by Featured NewsResearch

Review meeting held in Ayr

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has reported on its performance for 2024–25 at its annual performance review in Ayr.

According to the Service, the review provides the Scottish Government with a formal opportunity to assess the Service’s performance against set priorities.

The Service Board and Strategic Leadership Team explained that ongoing changes are being considered through its Service Delivery Review and public consultation.

SFRS reported that its crews attended more than 74,000 incidents across Scotland during the period.

It added that the review also considered the increasing demands of climate change and the Service’s response.

Wildfire activity during 2024–25

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service stated that 12 wildfire risk warnings were issued between March and August 2025, covering 59 days of heightened risk.

It reported that since February 2025, the Service has responded to 231 large outdoor fires across the country.

Some of these fires continued for several days, affecting many regions.

According to the Service, the 2023–26 Wildfire Strategy includes an investment of around £1.6 million.

It confirmed this spend has provided 400 sets of specialist wildfire PPE, 10 all-terrain vehicles, 10 ATV trailers and four dedicated 4×4 support vans.

Investment in climate and flood resilience

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service noted that it has invested in flood response PPE.

It explained that the Service has also supplied around 200 life jackets to support water rescue operations.

These measures form part of the organisation’s wider climate change adaptation planning.

The Service said this preparation will support crews when responding to flooding and water-related risks.

It added that these developments are designed to strengthen Scotland’s community resilience.

Focus on prevention and protection

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service reported that its prevention and protection activity includes emerging risks linked to battery energy storage systems.

The Service highlighted that in 2024 it launched a UK-wide campaign on lithium-ion battery safety.

The campaign provides information and guidance on safe use, charging, storage and disposal of lithium-ion products.

The Service said public education on new fire risks forms an important part of its wider prevention strategy.

It explained that lithium-ion related risks are expected to increase as battery use expands.

Collaboration and partnership activity

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service stated that it continues to work with Police Scotland and the Scottish Ambulance Service through the Reform Collaboration Group.

It added that the aim of this group is to improve cooperation among emergency services.

The Service reported that further collaboration is ongoing with the Fire Brigades Union and academic researchers on fire contaminant risk.

It explained that this includes the Scottish Government CivTech programme which is trialling technologies to track firefighter exposure and improve health monitoring.

Partnership projects are also underway across Scotland to provide additional resilience for communities.

Leadership and training

Chief Officer Stuart Stevens said: “We want to be a modern service that is ready for the challenges of Scotland’s future.

“We continue to see the impacts of climate change and this year our firefighters have worked tirelessly on a large number of outdoor fires.

“Fires of this nature are challenging for our crews and require a tremendous effort from our firefighters, including those who work on call, as well as our Operations Control staff. We continue to thank them for their dedication, professionalism and commitment.

“The Annual Performance Review also emphasises the importance of our continued partnership work as we work to provide protection and resilience for our communities across Scotland.”

Minister for Victims and Community Safety, Siobhan Brown MSP said: “I greatly value the work of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

“The Annual Performance Review provides an opportunity to reflect on SFRS’s performance and to appreciate all that the service has done over the year.

“We will consider performance against the Scottish Government Fire and Rescue Framework for Scotland, which sets out Ministers’ ambitions and priorities for SFRS as a world-leading, modern, skilled and dynamic fire and rescue service.”

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

This annual performance review provides information on how the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is adapting to current risks.

It shows the operational impact of wildfires, flooding and new hazards such as lithium-ion battery fires.

It highlights how service delivery is linked to both climate change and emerging technology.

It also sets out how collaboration across emergency services and with research partners is influencing future risk management.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service annual performance review outlines priorities for 2024–25: Summary

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service held its annual performance review in Ayr.

The review assessed the Service’s performance during 2024–25.

The Scottish Government used the meeting to consider progress against the Fire and Rescue Framework for Scotland.

The Service reported attending more than 74,000 incidents in the period.

There were 12 wildfire risk warnings between March and August 2025.

Since February 2025, 231 large outdoor fires have been recorded.

The 2023–26 Wildfire Strategy includes an investment of £1.6 million.

The Service has purchased wildfire PPE, ATVs, trailers and 4×4 support vans.

Flood response PPE and 200 life jackets have also been provided.

The Service launched a UK-wide lithium-ion battery safety campaign in 2024.

Collaboration continues with Police Scotland, the Scottish Ambulance Service and the Fire Brigades Union.

The CivTech programme is developing firefighter contaminant exposure monitoring technologies.

Chief Officer Stuart Stevens and Minister Siobhan Brown MSP commented on the Service’s performance.

The review covered service delivery, prevention, protection, climate response and collaboration.

The review outlined how the Service is planning for future risks in Scotland.

Is Scotland’s fire service ready for what’s next? Inside the SFRS strategy for 2025–28

by Featured News

Service strategy outlines vision for evolving needs in Scotland

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has formally approved its new strategy for 2025 to 2028, outlining priorities across community safety, operational readiness and organisational reform.

According to the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, the strategy responds to shifts in incident trends, such as a decline in house fires and a rise in flooding and wildfires, alongside wider social and infrastructure challenges.

SFRS said it will deliver the strategy through a three-year delivery plan supported by local fire and rescue plans, directorate plans and individual team objectives.

The strategy sets five overarching objectives: safer communities through prevention, safe and effective response, investing in people, improving performance, and innovation and investment.

According to SFRS, these priorities are shaped by national guidance including the Fire and Rescue Framework for Scotland, and are aligned with the organisation’s long-term vision and public sector reform goals.

Community prevention work remains central to SFRS operations

The strategy confirms that preventing incidents before they occur remains a core function of the service.

SFRS said it will continue to focus on reducing fire risk in homes and businesses and supporting vulnerable individuals through targeted interventions.

The document identifies ageing populations, health inequalities and climate-related threats as emerging areas of concern for future prevention work.

According to the strategy, enhanced data use and local partnership working will be used to shape prevention activity and support community resilience.

SFRS also said it would revise its enforcement approach to reflect findings from major incident reviews, including the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.

Emergency response shaped by climate and operational learning

The service said that its operational model will be adapted to meet evolving risks, including more frequent extreme weather events.

According to the strategy, firefighters will receive continued training under the 2023–28 Training Strategy to maintain competency and adapt to new techniques.

SFRS said it will explore different delivery models and ways of working to improve productivity and incident response.

Investment in new systems, vehicles and technologies is planned to support safe and timely deployment.

The strategy commits to embedding lessons learned from past incidents, both within SFRS and from other UK and international services.

Staff wellbeing and diversity are key priorities

SFRS said that supporting the health, safety and career development of staff will remain a core objective through 2028.

The strategy outlines commitments to mental wellbeing, leadership development, and inclusive recruitment.

The service aims to expand representation across its workforce to reflect Scotland’s population, including people from a range of backgrounds and experiences.

According to SFRS, a revised set of organisational values will be developed to guide behaviours and professional standards.

The service also intends to enhance its support for on-call staff through new employment practices.

Innovation and investment to drive efficiency and capacity

The strategy sets out a commitment to modernising infrastructure, equipment, and digital systems.

According to SFRS, future investment aims to ensure firefighters have appropriate tools, vehicles, and facilities, particularly in relation to contaminant reduction and environmental standards.

The service said it would consider expanding its role in communities, such as supporting medical response or delivering other public services where appropriate.

SFRS also said it would adopt more efficient internal processes and automate routine functions to increase organisational capacity.

These changes will be supported by research, data analysis and cross-sector collaboration.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service 2025–28 strategy focuses on safety, risk and reform: Summary

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has published its strategy for 2025 to 2028.

The strategy sets five objectives: prevention, response, people, performance and innovation.

It responds to changes in risk, including more wildfires and flooding.

SFRS said its prevention focus includes vulnerable groups and national partnerships.

Operational response will be shaped by climate change and new training.

Staff wellbeing, inclusion and leadership development are identified as priorities.

Investment is planned in fleet, equipment and fire station facilities.

Digital systems and automation will be used to improve productivity.

The strategy includes a new delivery plan, overseen by the SFRS Board.

It aligns with national government guidance and local authority needs.

Progress will be measured through performance dashboards and public reporting.

The strategy document is available on the SFRS website.

Deliberate fires divert Scottish firefighters from emergencies says SFRS

by Featured NewsResearch

Fire crews in Scotland tackled over 3,000 deliberate fires last summer

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has reported that more than 3,000 deliberate fires occurred across Scotland in the summer of 2024.

According to SFRS, 3,195 deliberate fires were recorded between June and August.

This equates to an average of over 30 fire-setting incidents every day.

The fires included grass, woodland, crop, refuse, residential, commercial and derelict buildings.

SFRS stated that although the number of incidents was lower than in previous years, each call diverts crews from other emergencies.

Summer fire activity lowest since 2020 but remains disruptive

The SFRS noted that the 2024 summer period recorded the fewest deliberate fires since 2020.

Despite this, the organisation highlighted ongoing challenges due to the frequency and spread of such incidents.

Assistant Chief Officer Jon Henderson, SFRS Director of Prevention, Protection and Preparedness, said: “If our crews are putting out more than 30 deliberate fires a day during summer then that’s time that could be spend elsewhere dealing with genuine emergencies.

“Deliberate fire-setting, whether it’s affecting a derelict building or woodland, is a crime and it can have a serious impact on local communities, as well as the potential for someone to get badly hurt or worse.

“We want those responsible to understand that getting involved in this type of behaviour can also impact negatively on your future.

“We’ll continue to take a zero-tolerance approach and will work with our police partners to identify those responsible.”

The fire service explained that deliberate fire-setting incidents are particularly disruptive in rural and high-risk areas.

It added that every call-out to this type of incident can delay response to house fires, road traffic collisions, or medical emergencies.

Police call fire-setting reckless and damaging to communities

Police Scotland has supported SFRS in highlighting the harm caused by deliberate fire-setting.

Assistant Chief Constable Mark Sutherland said: “Setting fires deliberately is reckless and irresponsible. It can endanger lives and result in significant damage to property.

“It also causes fear and alarm to those living in the local area and diverts valuable emergency service resources.

“We remain committed to working with our partners to reduce the number of these crimes taking place.

“We would urge anyone with information on fires being set in their community to contact police via 101, or 999 in an emergency. Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers through 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.”

Police Scotland reported that they are working closely with fire crews to trace those responsible for fire-setting.

The service said it encourages members of the public to report any suspicious activity near property or open land.

Joint efforts between SFRS and Police Scotland to identify offenders

SFRS and Police Scotland said they are continuing to carry out joint patrols in areas with repeat incidents.

They noted that CCTV, witness accounts and forensic evidence are used in investigations.

The fire service confirmed that education campaigns are being run in schools and community groups to deter youth involvement in fire-setting.

Police Scotland added that some arrests had been made in connection with fire-starting cases during 2024, although no figures were released in the latest statement.

Both organisations stressed that prevention efforts were ongoing and would be maintained throughout the 2025 summer period.

Fire-setting includes both open land and buildings

The SFRS explained that the range of deliberate fire settings includes various environments, with no single category accounting for the majority.

Incidents were reported in grassland, urban streets, and commercial premises.

Fires in derelict buildings were described as a recurring risk, often posing danger to firefighters due to unstable structures.

The fire service also highlighted concerns over setting refuse alight in bins near homes, which can spread rapidly to occupied properties.

SFRS stated that many fires occur in remote areas, requiring extensive travel times and resource deployment.

Deliberate fires in Scotland impact emergency response: Summary

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service reported 3,195 deliberate fires during summer 2024.

This equates to an average of over 30 incidents per day across Scotland.

Incidents included fires in grassland, woodland, crops, buildings and refuse.

The 2024 figure represents the lowest summer total since 2020.

SFRS said these incidents divert crews from other emergency calls.

Assistant Chief Officer Jon Henderson stated that fire-setting poses serious risk to communities.

Police Scotland said the behaviour is reckless and damages property.

Assistant Chief Constable Mark Sutherland urged the public to report suspicious activity.

Both organisations confirmed that joint investigations are ongoing.

Patrols and forensic investigations are being used to identify suspects.

Prevention campaigns are being delivered to young people in affected areas.

Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2: Scottish Government outlines building and fire safety reforms

by Building ManagementFeatured NewsSafety

Scottish Government responds to Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 report

The Scottish Government has accepted all applicable recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 report.

As reported by the Scottish Government, the response outlines measures to improve building standards, strengthen fire safety systems, and ensure competence across construction professions in Scotland.

The Grenfell Tower fire in 2017 caused 72 deaths and triggered a wide-ranging public inquiry into the roles of government, regulators, contractors and fire services.

Eight policy themes guide government’s reforms

The Ministerial Working Group on Grenfell, established in advance of the Phase 2 report’s publication, organised the recommendations into eight themes.

These cover regulation and systems, government restructuring, fire tests and product certification, design competence, firefighting, resilience, assorted matters and additional housing issues.

The Scottish Government’s response accepts the 58 recommendations where they apply to devolved matters and outlines a framework for working with the UK Government on reserved areas.

Newlegislation to improve building compliance and enforcement

The Scottish Government intends to introduce legislation following consultation to reinforce the building standards system.

Plans include a new compliance plan manager role, stronger enforcement powers and sanctions, and an expanded certification framework.

The Building Standards Futures Board will oversee implementation of these changes and continue its reform programme.

Fire safety campaign to target high-rise domestic buildings

A national fire safety awareness campaign will run through 2025 across high-rise buildings.

The campaign will focus on supporting vulnerable people with evacuation guidance and will promote Home Fire Safety Visits by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS).

The campaign is part of efforts to implement Inquiry Recommendation 57 and increase public knowledge on fire safety practices.

Training and competence in fire risk assessment to be strengthened

The Scottish Government will bring forward legislation to mandate accreditation for fire risk assessors, following a public consultation.

At present, there is no legal requirement for formal qualifications in Scotland.

This response addresses Recommendation 26, which highlights a lack of oversight and accreditation that contributed to failings at Grenfell Tower.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to support digital transition and inspections

SFRS is replacing analogue radios with digital models and reviewing training and operations control.

HM Fire Service Inspectorate in Scotland will conduct thematic inspections on incident command and control rooms, in line with Inquiry Recommendations 31 to 33.

The rollout of digital radios started in 2024 and is expected to complete in 2025.

Competency standards for fire engineers and architects under review

Scotland supports UK-wide action to regulate fire engineers and improve education for architects.

The government will engage with the UK Government and professional bodies to define competencies and expand access to fire engineering degree programmes.

Scotland is also reviewing continuing professional development requirements for designers and fire service personnel.

Personal emergency evacuation planning under consideration

The Scottish Government supports Recommendation 57 in principle and will explore the introduction of person-centred risk assessments or evacuation plans.

A 2025 campaign will share updated fire safety toolkits with factors, landlords and residents’ associations.

Further steps may follow the Scottish Law Commission’s 2026 recommendations on mandatory homeowners’ associations.

New protocols for firefighting equipment and water supply

SFRS will continue its review of fireground communication equipment, including radios and hydrant systems.

Existing protocols with Scottish Water will also be assessed to ensure adequate water pressure and access in emergencies.

Operational learning from incidents will remain a focus of internal reviews and assurance visits.

Greater integration of resilience planning with voluntary and community sectors

The Scottish Government will review resilience doctrine and guidance during 2025–2026.

Planned updates aim to clarify roles of Category 1 responders and strengthen partnerships with local authorities and community groups.

Training and learning needs will be identified through consultation to support future resilience capability.

Future work includes review of Section 2 (Fire) of the Technical Handbooks

Scottish Ministers will launch a Call for Evidence to review Section 2 (Fire) of the Building Standards Technical Handbooks.

The review will address standards for cladding, compartmentation and evacuation strategy for high-risk buildings.

Findings from the Grenfell Inquiry Phase 2 report will inform this process alongside planned updates to the Scottish Advice Note on external walls.

Collaboration with UK Government on reserved matters

The Scottish Government confirmed it will work with the UK Government on matters such as construction product regulation, fire engineer licensure and contractor accreditation.

The UK Government’s Construction Products Reform Green Paper, published in February 2025, will inform the Scottish approach to product safety.

Scotland supports developing a shared product information library and single construction regulator across the UK.

Commitment to a culture of competence and regulation

Scottish Ministers will continue work on competence assessment for building professionals, including an independent evaluation scheme by 2027.

Engagement with the construction sector and public bodies will help ensure that regulatory changes are practical and enforceable.

Training, certification and clear accountability remain priorities for long-term system reform.

Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2: Scottish Government outlines building and fire safety reforms: Summary

The Scottish Government has published its official response to the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 report.

The government accepts all recommendations relevant to Scotland and outlines actions across eight policy themes.

Key reforms include planned legislation to strengthen the building standards system, enforce compliance, and improve fire risk assessment.

SFRS will support these actions with training, inspections and a new fire safety awareness campaign in 2025.

Legislation on new roles such as the Compliance Plan Manager and mandatory accreditation of fire risk assessors will be introduced following consultation.

The Scottish Government will also continue collaboration with the UK Government on reserved matters, including regulation of fire engineers and construction product safety.

A review of the fire standards within Section 2 of the Building Standards Technical Handbooks will be launched, with a call for evidence to be issued in 2025.

Further reforms will focus on competence, enforcement, resilience planning and support for vulnerable residents in high-rise buildings.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service upgrades Newcraighall fire station with £2.5m investment

by Featured News

Fire station refurbishment enhances firefighter welfare and safety

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has completed a £2.5 million refurbishment of Newcraighall Community Fire Station in Edinburgh.

The upgrades include improved changing, cleaning, and welfare facilities for firefighters, as well as dedicated areas for study and rest.

The new layout is designed to prevent the spread of fire contaminants by introducing specific areas for handling contaminated equipment.

Firefighters are also encouraged to shower within an hour of returning from incidents.

Investment supports modernisation of Scotland’s fire service

The refurbishment is part of a wider programme aimed at modernising fire stations across Scotland.

SFRS Deputy Assistant Chief Officer (DACO) Andrew Girrity, who oversees service delivery in the East area, said: “This major refurbishment of Newcraighall ensures our firefighters have access to state-of-the-art facilities that not only support their wellbeing but enhance their critical work in keeping communities safe.”

The upgrades were completed ahead of schedule and are intended to meet the evolving needs of Scotland’s fire service.

Minister for Victims and Community Safety visits Newcraighall station

Minister for Victims and Community Safety Siobhian Brown MSP visited the newly refurbished fire station on 27 February 2025 to review the improvements.

Siobhian Brown MSP said: “I was grateful for the opportunity to see the difference that this £2.5 million investment in modern facilities is making to firefighters at Newcraighall Community Fire Station.”

She also noted an increase in capital funding for SFRS from £43 million to £47 million in the 2025-26 Budget, which will support further investment in property, fleet, and equipment.

Future investment in fire stations across Scotland

The Scottish Government’s funding increase will allow SFRS to continue refurbishing and upgrading fire stations to improve firefighter welfare and operational efficiency.

Siobhian Brown MSP said: “I look forward to seeing more examples of how investment is improving facilities for firefighters as part of SFRS’s programme of fire station refurbishments.”

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service upgrades Newcraighall fire station with £2.5m investment: Summary

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has completed a £2.5 million refurbishment of Newcraighall Community Fire Station in Edinburgh.

The project includes upgraded changing, cleaning, and welfare facilities for firefighters, along with areas for studying and rest.

The new layout is designed to prevent fire contaminants from spreading within the station.

Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Andrew Girrity stated that the upgrades will support firefighter wellbeing and enhance their ability to protect communities.

Minister for Victims and Community Safety Siobhian Brown MSP visited the station on 27 February 2025 and highlighted the government’s increased capital funding for SFRS, which will support further investment in fire stations, fleet, and equipment.

The refurbishment is part of a broader initiative to modernise fire stations across Scotland, ensuring that facilities meet the needs of firefighters and the communities they serve.

Scottish fire service budget increase falls short, says FBU

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

Scottish Parliament allocates funding for SFRS

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

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

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

FBU warns of ongoing financial strain

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

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

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

Calls for greater capital investment

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

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

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

National concerns over firefighter numbers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kilwinning Community Fire Station’s long-time support team member honoured at Ayrshire Tri-Services Awards for community contributions

by Featured NewsPeople

Award recognition for support team member Annie Chapman

Annie Chapman, a long-time cook at Kilwinning Community Fire Station, was recently honoured at the Ayrshire Tri-Services Awards for her contributions to the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) and her local community.

According to the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, Chapman has served firefighters and staff throughout Ayrshire for over 21 years, currently working out of the Kilwinning station.

Her contributions, both professionally and through additional community engagement efforts, led to her receiving the Support Team Member of the Year award at this year’s ceremony.

The Ayrshire Tri-Services Awards celebrate the efforts of emergency services personnel who serve local communities.

As part of her role, Chapman has provided meals to support firefighters returning from incidents, while also actively engaging with community initiatives, such as addressing food poverty and supporting elderly neighbours.

Annie Chapman’s community involvement

Beyond her responsibilities at the station, Chapman plays an active role in community events, particularly during the festive season when she dons the role of Mrs Claus at Kilwinning Community Fire Station.

She invites members of the community to participate in seasonal activities, helping foster a welcoming environment for local residents.

This gesture, alongside her support for broader community initiatives, exemplifies the values the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service seeks to uphold.

Area Commander and Local Senior Officer for Ayrshire, Ian McMeekin, praised Chapman’s commitment, noting her dedication to the Kilwinning crews and the community: “Annie is conscientious and dedicated, going above and beyond to provide hot meals for the Kilwinning crews returning from an incident.

“Her kindness however extends beyond her job description. Whether supporting activities to tackle food poverty, assisting elderly neighbours with health concerns, supporting staff, or contributing to community engagement initiatives at the station, Annie embodies the values of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service in everything she does.”

Other award recipients at Ayrshire Tri-Services Awards

The awards ceremony also acknowledged other contributions across Ayrshire’s emergency services.

Stewarton Community Fire Station’s on-call firefighters received Team of the Year, recognised for their work in local fire safety and emergency response.

Additionally, firefighter Stephen McAnespie from Dreghorn Community Fire Station was recognised for his work with beehives across Ayrshire’s fire stations, a unique initiative aimed at supporting environmental conservation.

Another individual, Lee Swanston, was commended for his efforts with the Youth Volunteer Scheme, an SFRS programme aimed at engaging young people in emergency services education and community service.

These awards highlight a variety of ways that emergency personnel contribute to the wellbeing of Ayrshire’s communities.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s commitment to community values

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s involvement in the Ayrshire Tri-Services Awards underscores the organisation’s dedication to recognising personnel who go beyond their professional duties.

The awards honour a range of services, from firefighting and rescue efforts to community education and environmental initiatives.

By celebrating individuals like Chapman, McAnespie, and Swanston, the SFRS and its partners acknowledge the lasting impact of dedicated service on both colleagues and local communities.

Kilwinning Community Fire Station’s Annie Chapman honoured at Ayrshire Tri-Services Awards for community contributions: Summary

Annie Chapman, a support team member at Kilwinning Community Fire Station, was awarded Support Team Member of the Year at the Ayrshire Tri-Services Awards, recognising her 21 years of service with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

Chapman’s role extends beyond cooking for the Kilwinning crews; she also engages in numerous community initiatives, from addressing food poverty to seasonal community events.

Area Commander Ian McMeekin praised her dedication, noting her alignment with SFRS values.

Other honourees included Stewarton Community Fire Station as Team of the Year and firefighter Stephen McAnespie for his work with local beehives.

The awards highlight the essential roles played by emergency service personnel in supporting the well-being of Ayrshire communities.