National Fire Cadet Games take place in Wales

by EventsFeatured News

UK-wide cadet teams attend training event in Cardiff

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) recently held the 2025 National Fire Cadet Games took place in Cardiff, bringing together 31 youth cadet teams from across the United Kingdom.

The event, hosted in partnership with Cardiff Metropolitan University, was held in Wales for the first time.

Participants aged 13 to 18 took part in a series of practical scenarios testing communication, physical ability, and technical firefighting knowledge.

According to SWFRS, the activities included water rescue, trauma response, a fire safety awareness session, and a virtual reality search and rescue operation.

Additional modules featured prevention exercises, team-based challenges, and live response tasks designed to simulate real-world incidents.

Youth training, skills, and safety highlighted

Fire Cadets are young people who volunteer with their local fire and rescue services to gain training in firefighting, first aid, and community safety awareness.

According to SWFRS, cadets are viewed as future leaders and are supported in building teamwork and public service skills through events such as the National Fire Cadet Games.

Chief Fire Officer Fin Monahan opened the three-day event and said: “These Games are about more than competition.

“They’re a celebration of the dedication, leadership, and passion these young people bring to their communities.

“Every cadet here represents the future of our service – and that future looks incredibly bright.”

Amy Jenkins, National Fire Cadet Games Co-ordinator, said:

“The success of the National Games reflects the teams’ commitment to delivering this important event, alongside the fire cadets from across the UK whose presence and passion made this weekend’s Fire Cadets National Games a great success.”

Winners and participants announced

The 2025 National Fire Cadet Games concluded with Bedfordshire Team 2 named as the overall winners.

SWFRS confirmed that the Abergavenny cadets, representing the host service, placed second in the competition.

The activities ran throughout the weekend, with results announced on the final day.

Participants were assessed on scenario performance, decision-making under pressure, and ability to operate within structured teams.

Games officials reported that the event also encouraged social connections between cadets from different UK regions.

Testimonials from cadets and visitors

Cumbrian cadet Olivia Paice, aged 17, shared her experience of the event. Paice said: “I’ve been a fire cadet for about five years now and I love it.

“We’ve all had a great weekend – we’ve met so many amazing people.

“I’ve really enjoyed the different challenges, but particularly the trauma segment.

“It’s very realistic, and you must adapt to the quickly changing scenario.”

The event also welcomed external guests, including the Mayor of Newport.

Councillor Kate Thomas said:

“It’s tremendously inspiring to see so much interest in the fire service from so many young people.
“It’s also been an incredible feat of organisation and co-ordination that is extremely impressive.”

Host service response and future outlook

SWFRS Commissioner Lady Wilcox commented on the Games and said “I’m proud that South Wales Fire and Rescue Service had the honour of hosting this year’s National Fire Cadet Games.

“It was a fantastic opportunity for our cadets to demonstrate the knowledge, teamwork, and confidence they have gained through their local Fire Cadet programmes.”

SWFRS confirmed that Cardiff Metropolitan University provided facilities for the weekend-long event.

The service thanked its staff, organisers, and supporting organisations for contributing to the delivery of the Games.

According to SWFRS, cadet initiatives remain part of long-term engagement strategies to involve young people in public safety and prevention work.

National Fire Cadet Games take place in Wales: Summary

The 2025 National Fire Cadet Games were hosted in Wales for the first time.

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) held the event in partnership with Cardiff Metropolitan University.

Thirty-one cadet teams from across the UK participated in the three-day programme.

The event included activities such as water rescues, trauma response, VR simulations, and safety education.

Chief Fire Officer Fin Monahan opened the event and praised the participants’ commitment.

Bedfordshire Team 2 were announced as the overall winners of the Games.

SWFRS Abergavenny cadets secured second place in the final rankings.

Cadets volunteered their time to train in firefighting, first aid, and public safety roles.

The event also aimed to build cross-regional relationships between young people in the fire sector.

Cardiff Metropolitan University hosted the event on its facilities.

The service plans to continue supporting cadet development and public safety engagement.

Wales Wildfire Board urges public caution after sharp rise in wildfire incidents

by Featured NewsSafetyWildland Fire

Fire services report sharp increase in wildfire incidents

The Wales Wildfire Board has reported a 407% increase in wildfires across Wales between March and May 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.

The board has urged members of the public to take precautions and act responsibly outdoors to help reduce the risk and impact of wildfires during the warmer months.

Andrew Wright, Chair of the Wales Wildfire Board, said the increase came during a particularly active grass fire season.

The board is encouraging residents and visitors to be “Wildfire Wise” and follow seasonal safety guidance when spending time in the countryside.

According to the Wales Wildfire Board, the rise in incidents affects not only emergency response services but also wildlife habitats, land, and the wider community.

Summer outdoor activity raises fire risk

The Wales Wildfire Board stated that warmer weather and outdoor activity can increase fire risk if care is not taken.

Andrew Wright said: “As the seasons change, and the promise of warmer weather is on the horizon, it is the ideal time to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, book your staycations or holidays, take your family on a camping trip, or just enjoy your local area.”

He continued: “We are encouraging all members of our communities to respect our countryside and play their part in safeguarding our environment and keeping our communities safe.”

He added: “Every year, fire is responsible for the destruction of thousands of hectares of countryside, open space and wildlife habitats.

“We want to work with our communities to build a healthier and resilient countryside and to develop a more biodiverse countryside for the future.

“Working with our communities and sharing our knowledge provides us with a better understanding of what we can do to limit the damage that accidental fires cause to our environment.”

The board said that dry grass and open landscapes can quickly fuel fast-spreading fires if ignition occurs.

Health and environmental effects highlighted

The Wales Wildfire Board said the impact of wildfires extends beyond immediate damage.

Andrew Wright said: “As wildfires become an increasingly dire reality, it is imperative that we address not only the immediate threats but also the long-term implications for our health, economy, and environment.”

He added: “Air quality is severely compromised during and after wildfires. Smoke can travel hundreds of miles, affecting communities far removed from the flames.

“While some partners on the Wales Wildfire Board are working tirelessly to better understand the health impact of wildfires, what we do know is that vulnerable populations can be particularly at risk, with wildfire smoke affecting your breathing, irritating your skin and eyes, and causing chest pains.”

The board stated that fires also disrupt natural ecosystems and can contribute to longer-term environmental degradation, including increased carbon emissions.

It explained that the destruction of vegetation and wildlife alters habitats, affecting biodiversity and increasing soil and water quality issues.

Economic impacts on Welsh communities

The Wales Wildfire Board has warned that wildfires have wide-reaching economic effects on rural and tourism-based communities.

Andrew Wright said: “The economic fallout from wildfires is also often misunderstood and, in many cases, is profound and long-lasting.

“In addition to immediate firefighting costs, communities face prolonged impacts on tourism, agriculture, and local businesses.”

The board noted that these costs are not always immediately visible, but they can place pressure on local economies for months or even years after an incident.

According to the organisation, proactive investment in prevention is essential to reduce long-term community impact.

Community and policy action encouraged

The Wales Wildfire Board said it is increasing its work with communities and policymakers to improve wildfire preparedness.

Andrew Wright said: “In light of these overwhelming challenges, the Wales Wildfire Board is stepping up efforts to bolster community resilience.

“Programs focused on fire preparedness, education, and support are being implemented to aid communities in recovery.

“Innovative approaches to land management and ecological restoration are also being explored to mitigate future fire risks and enhance community safety.”

He added: “But we know there is more we can do, and we are urging policymakers, community leaders, and individuals to come together to play their part in investing in and supporting preventive measures, affected communities, and advocating for sustainable practices.”

The board is asking the public to visit the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service website for guidance and information on how to take part in fire safety efforts.

Wales Wildfire Board urges public caution after sharp rise in wildfire incidents: Summary

The Wales Wildfire Board has reported a 407% rise in wildfires across Wales between March and May 2025 compared to 2024.

The board said the increase followed a particularly dry grass fire season.

Chair Andrew Wright urged communities to take precautions and follow safety advice.

The board warned that wildfires damage land, affect health, and impact local economies.

It stated that smoke from fires can affect air quality over long distances.

The board said economic effects include disruption to tourism and agriculture.

Wildfires can also destroy habitats and contribute to biodiversity loss.

The Wales Wildfire Board is increasing its efforts on community resilience and land management.

It is calling on individuals, community leaders, and policymakers to support prevention and recovery measures.

The public is encouraged to visit the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service website for information.

Firefighter pension funding: Welsh Government issues top-up grant forms for 2025-26

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Welsh Government requests pension estimates from FRAs

The Welsh Government has issued a circular requesting Fire and Rescue Authorities (FRAs) in Wales to submit completed pension forms for the 2025-26 financial year.

Authorities are required to confirm or amend the pension estimates already provided and submit unaudited and audited pension fund information. The deadline for submission is 17 March 2025.

The information collected will be used to determine the final top-up grant payments for firefighter pensions. These grants cover any shortfalls between contributions made by employees and employers and the actual pension payments required.

Breakdown of top-up grant payments

The top-up grant funding is based on pension income and expenditure estimates submitted by FRAs.

For the 2025-26 financial year, FRAs will receive 80% of the estimated top-up grant requirement. The final amount will be adjusted based on actual expenditure.

The funding also includes any remaining top-up payments for the 2024-25 financial year and an adjustment for differences in unaudited and audited pension fund data from 2023-24.

If an FRA has a surplus from 2024-25, this will be deducted from its 2025-26 top-up grant.

Guidance on completing pension returns

FRAs are required to submit financial returns detailing final unaudited pension fund data for 2024-25, final audited data for 2023-24, and estimates for 2025-26 onwards.

Authorities must consider local workforce planning when estimating retirements, new entrants, and other staff movements.

The Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) has provided planning assumptions for pensionable pay increases, with an expected rise of 2.4% in 2025-26.

Estimates must use an assumed employer contribution rate of 31%, based on the final 2020 valuation report.

Deadline and submission requirements

FRAs must submit completed pension forms (FPF1, FPF2, and FPF3) by 17 March 2025.

Forms should be returned electronically to fire@gov.wales with a signed copy included. The Welsh Government will contact FRAs separately to confirm grant calculations and proposed payments.

The circular was issued by Steffan Herdman of the Fire Services Branch at the Welsh Government.

Firefighter pension funding: Welsh Government issues top-up grant forms for 2025-26 – Summary

The Welsh Government has requested Fire and Rescue Authorities in Wales to submit pension estimates for the 2025-26 financial year. The data collected will inform the allocation of firefighter pension top-up grants.

The funding process ensures that shortfalls between pension contributions and payments are covered. FRAs will receive 80% of their estimated requirement for 2025-26, with adjustments made based on actual expenditure.

Authorities must submit unaudited and audited pension fund data for previous years and confirm or amend their estimates for the coming financial year.

The deadline for submission is 17 March 2025. Forms must be sent electronically to the Welsh Government, with signed copies included.

North Wales reveals recruitment window for full-time firefighters

by Featured NewsPeople

Recruitment window for firefighters in North Wales

North Wales Fire and Rescue Service is set to open its recruitment window for full-time firefighters.

Registration for online applications will begin at noon on Wednesday, 17 July, and close at noon on Monday, 22 July.

Mike Owen, Area Manager Response, stated: “In preparation for the campaign, we’re hosting ‘Experience Days’ and ‘Get Fire Fit’ events – you can find out more on our website. Places are limited and in high demand, so book early!”

Insights into the firefighter role

As the application period approaches, North Wales Fire and Rescue Service will share more details about what it takes to be a firefighter.

A live Q&A session is scheduled on Facebook on Tuesday, 16 July, at 6:30 pm. Owen said: “You can find out more about the role of a firefighter on our website.”

The service aims to recruit a workforce that reflects the diversity of the communities it serves. Applications from all backgrounds are encouraged.

Commitment to diversity and support

The service emphasised the importance of protecting communities and valuing its personnel.

Owen said: “We believe there is no such thing as a typical firefighter and applications from all backgrounds are encouraged. Protecting our communities is at the heart of everything we do.”

The service supports its employees to reach their full potential, regardless of their background.

For additional information, applicants can follow the North Wales Fire and Rescue Service on social media or visit their website.

Application portal details

When the recruitment window opens, the application portal will be accessible on the North Wales Fire and Rescue Service website.

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply within the given timeframe to secure their chance at becoming a full-time firefighter.

Welsh Government receives advisory report on fire safety scheme for social housing

by Featured NewsSafety

Welsh government’s new fire safety scheme for social housing receives expert evaluation

The Subsidy Advice Unit (SAU), under the auspices of the Competition and Markets Authority, recently published a report aimed at advising the Welsh Government on its proposed fire safety scheme targeted at medium and high-rise buildings within the social sector.

The report, dated 8 May 2024, outlines the SAU’s assessment of the government’s compliance with the Subsidy Control Act 2022.

This evaluation scrutinises the Welsh Government’s methodology and evidence used in determining the scheme’s adherence to regulatory frameworks, primarily focusing on subsidy control requirements.

The SAU’s review includes a detailed analysis, though it refrains from making any direct recommendations on the scheme’s implementation.

Key findings and recommendations

The SAU report suggests several improvements to enhance the Welsh Government’s assessment of the fire safety scheme.

It recommends more precise referencing and stronger evidence to support assertions within the assessment.

Specifically, the report calls for enhanced details on aspects of scheme design, such as the intervention limits and the efficiency of grant funding for remediation works.

Additionally, the report addresses the need for better evidence supporting the counterfactual scenarios, particularly the inability of landlords to manage fire safety issues promptly without subsidy.

The SAU also highlighted the importance of considering non-subsidy alternatives and the overall proportionality of awards to individual beneficiaries, suggesting a more systematic approach to assessing these elements.

Implications for policy and practice

The guidance provided by the SAU is non-binding but critical for the Welsh Government’s decision-making process concerning the fire safety scheme.

By outlining potential areas for improvement, the SAU aims to ensure that the proposed measures effectively meet policy objectives while adhering to statutory guidelines.

This advice is intended to aid the Welsh Government in refining the scheme, thereby enhancing the safety and compliance of social housing projects.

IFSJ Comment

The SAU’s evaluation of the Welsh Government’s fire safety scheme proposal underscores the complexity and necessity of thorough compliance assessments in public safety initiatives.

As the government contemplates the implementation of this scheme, the insights from the SAU report highlight the importance of evidence-based decision-making and rigorous adherence to subsidy control measures.

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service announces redevelopment of fire station in Pontypool

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A modern approach to fire safety and sustainability

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) has announced plans to redevelop the New Inn Fire Station in Pontypool.

The current station, operational since 1952, has reached the end of its material lifespan and is no longer suitable for the demands of modern fire and rescue operations.

The new station, set to be constructed on the same site, aims to be a beacon of sustainability and modern design.

Station Commander for New Inn, Simon Brown, emphasised the project’s focus on environmental responsibility: “Construction of the new-build Fire Station brings the opportunity to design a building with sustainability as a key objective.

“SWFRS aims to achieve a Net Zero Carbon energy rating for the new building, as an exemplar project within SWFRS’ estate.”

Innovative features for a greener future

The redevelopment plans include replacing the station’s traditional brick training tower with a black steel frame structure.

The new facility will boast 23 parking spaces, including three disabled bays and five electric vehicle charging stations, underscoring the shift towards sustainable transportation.

Additionally, the station will be equipped with solar panels, further contributing to its green credentials.

Environmental considerations and local wildlife

SWFRS is not just focusing on the station’s functionality and carbon footprint; environmental considerations extend to the station’s surroundings.

The plan includes the planting of five field maple trees and the establishment of a new hedgerow, shrubs, and a well-being area for staff.

In a nod to local biodiversity, the project will also see the installation of bat and bird boxes.

Maintaining service during construction

To ensure continuity of service in Pontypool during the construction phase, SWFRS plans to submit a planning application for a temporary fire station.

This move is aimed at maintaining an appropriate level of fire and rescue service in the area.

IFSJ Comment

The redevelopment of New Inn Fire Station by South Wales Fire and Rescue Service marks a progressive step towards integrating sustainability into essential public services.

The focus on achieving a Net Zero Carbon energy rating and the incorporation of eco-friendly features like solar panels and electric vehicle charging stations reflect a forward-thinking approach.

The inclusion of green spaces and considerations for local wildlife further enrich the project, making it a model for future developments in the fire and rescue sector.

As communities and services increasingly prioritise sustainability, projects like this serve as valuable examples of how to balance functionality with environmental consciousness.

Operation Dawns Glaw: Enhancing fire safety in Wales’ countryside

by Featured NewsWildland Fire

Collaborative Efforts to Reduce Grass Fires in Wales

Operation Dawns Glaw, a multi-agency task force of specialists from key agencies across Wales, has reformed with the objective of reducing, and where possible, eliminating the impact of grass fires across the region.

The task force, initially established in 2016, has focused on tackling deliberately set grass fires and is now also addressing the increase in accidental fires, often resulting from careless behaviour in the countryside.

In 2023, Welsh fire services responded to 1,880 grassfire incidents, marking a 45% decrease compared to the previous year, with deliberate grass fires dropping by 1,059 (45%) to 1,301.

This effort is part of a broader initiative to protect thousands of hectares of countryside, open space, and wildlife habitats, alongside the aim to build a healthier, resilient, and biodiverse Welsh countryside.

Community Engagement and Sustainable Practices

Peter Greenslade, Chair of Operation Dawns Glaw, emphasized the importance of collaboration in protecting the Welsh landscape: “We launch our campaign again this year on St David’s Day, with a patriotic plea that we all continue to work together to build a healthier and more resilient Welsh landscape, by developing a more biodiverse countryside for our future.

“We want to continue to protect our landscapes, green grassland, and countryside that we are all so fortunate to have on our doorstep.”

Greenslade also highlighted the role of controlled burns in creating a sustainable ecosystem: “We understand that controlled burns can have a positive effect on the environment, creating biodiversity and a sustainable eco system and we are available for free advice on how to do this safely.”

He further reminded the community of the legal implications of deliberate fires, noting the strain they place on frontline services and the risks they pose to communities.

Legal Responsibilities and Guidance for Landowners

The Operation continues its engagement with farmers and landowners, offering guidance on legal burning practices.

While burning of heather, grass, bracken, and gorse is permitted until 15 March (31 March in upland areas), it is mandatory to have a Burn Plan in place to ensure safe practices.

Burning outside the designated season is illegal and can result in penalties of up to £1,000.

IFSJ Comment

Operation Dawns Glaw’s renewed efforts in Wales signify a vital step in fire prevention and environmental protection.

The operation’s dual focus on reducing deliberate and accidental grass fires aligns with the broader goal of fostering a healthy, resilient, and biodiverse countryside.

The emphasis on community engagement and education plays a critical role in this initiative.

This collaborative approach between agencies, communities, and landowners is key to maintaining the natural beauty and ecological balance of Wales’ countryside.

Welsh Government publishes new guidance for fire safety remediation in buildings over 11 metres

by Featured NewsSafety

The Welsh Government has issued guidance regarding fire safety remediation for residential buildings over 11 metres in height.

This significant update, part of the Welsh Building Safety Programme, aims to enhance the safety and security of residents in Wales.

Fire safety a top priority in Wales

Fire safety remains a key focus for the Welsh Government, as evidenced by the ongoing development of the Building Safety Programme.

The newly released guidance outlines a clear path for remediation of fire safety issues linked to the construction of residential buildings taller than 11 metres.

Crucially, the costs for these remedial works will not be borne by the leaseholders, irrespective of whether the buildings are managed by social sector partners, developers, or are orphan buildings with no developer available for remediation.

Comprehensive coverage for leaseholders

In a move to provide universal support, the Welsh Government has clarified that all leaseholders are eligible for assistance, eliminating the distinction between ‘qualifying’ and ‘non-qualifying’ leaseholders.

This means there’s no requirement for leaseholders to provide a certificate confirming their eligibility for support.

Developer’s contract and orphan buildings

The guidance includes provisions for buildings covered under the Developer’s Contract.

Developers committed to this contract are responsible for addressing construction-related fire safety issues at their own expense.

Plans are already in place to execute these works without cost implications for leaseholders.

For orphan buildings—those without an identified developer, where the developer is no longer operational, or buildings over 30 years old—the Welsh Building Safety Fund will provide necessary support.

Additionally, the fund will assist developers who haven’t signed the Developer’s Contract and are unable to fully cover remediation costs, ensuring a balance between community safety and economic stability.

Exclusions from the current plan

The guidance does delineate certain buildings as out of scope for current remediation plans.

Buildings identified by the Welsh Building Safety Fund as being less than 11m in height, as defined in Part B of the Building Regulations in Wales, are not included in these remediation plans.

IFSJ Comment

The Welsh Government’s new guidance is a landmark step in ensuring fire safety in residential buildings.

By covering buildings over 11 metres and extending support to all leaseholders, the government demonstrates a strong commitment to public safety.

This initiative not only addresses immediate fire safety concerns but also instils confidence among residents about their safety and security.

The inclusion of orphan buildings and the support extended to developers underlines the comprehensive approach to tackle fire safety issues.

This development is a significant advancement in the building safety landscape, setting a precedent for other regions to follow in prioritising resident safety and building integrity.

Welsh Government seeks input on amending fire safety in building regulations

by Building ManagementFeatured NewsSafety

The Welsh Government is inviting public feedback on proposed changes to Part B (Fire Safety) of the Building Regulations.

These changes primarily revolve around the use of combustible materials and the implementation of safety systems in specific building types.

This comes as a follow-up to amendments made in 2018 restricting the use of certain combustible materials in high-rise buildings.

Building regulations: Proposed changes to combat fire risks

Following their 2018 consultation, the Welsh Government is looking to expand on the previous bans by:

  • “Amend[ing] the ban of the use of combustible materials in and on external walls of buildings, including building types covered, attachments such as blinds, shutters and awnings”.
  • Proposing a specific prohibition on “the use of metal composite panels in and on the external walls of all buildings”.
  • Implementing an “Evacuation Alert System (EAS) in accordance with BS 8629 in all new blocks of flats (Purpose group 1(a)) with a floor 18m or more above ground level”.
  • Introducing “Secure Information Boxes in all new blocks of flats with a floor of 11m or more above ground level” and “floor identification and flat wayfinding signage within all new blocks of flats with a floor of 11m or more above ground level”.
  • They also plan to reference BS EN 13501 and BS 476 fire classifications used in Approved Document B (AD B) and “amend regulations 6 and 7 of the Building Regulations 2010 to permit the use of materials achieving the class A2fl-s1 or A1fl”.

Public feedback matters

The government is actively seeking feedback from the public on these proposed changes.

Those who wish to participate can send their responses to the dedicated email or the given physical address, which is listed on their official website.

For more details and to contribute your views, click here.

IFSJ Comment

Continuous review and amendments to existing regulations are crucial.

The Welsh Government’s proactive approach to seeking public feedback and being transparent about proposed changes ensures that the concerns of those most impacted – residents and building professionals – are taken into account.

The emphasis on the use of non-combustible materials and safety systems not only aligns with global fire safety standards but also demonstrates a commitment to public safety.

This ongoing dialogue is a testament to the importance of community involvement in shaping safer living and working environments.