It is the Government’s priority is to keep the public safe. The Grenfell Inquiry and independent inspections show reform is needed and work is therefore underway to strengthen fire and rescue services across England.
In May 2022 comprehensive plans were unveiled for reform through the Fire Reform White Paper. The proposals put forward – which centre on people, professionalism, and governance – aim to strengthen the emergency services and ensure people feel safer in their homes. It also builds on fire and building safety system reform in recent years and the response to the fire at Grenfell Tower, a tragedy that can never be repeated.
The reforms seek to introduce changes to allow fire professionals to further develop their skills, enable greater professionalism, and strengthen governance arrangements across the sector.
The Government is concerned that the lack of executive oversight in most fire and rescue authorities and the variation and inconsistency between governance models have hampered accountability and transparency for the public. That is why the White Paper proposes to move governance to an executive leader, such as a combined authority mayor, a county council leader, or a Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, each with a formal scrutiny panel. More effective governance will ensure a publicly accountable figure who can set clear priorities to deliver best for the public.
The proposals contained in the White Paper were previously open to consultation and the Government is now examining the responses received.