FBU demands change after HMICFRS report highlights misconduct in fire service
Iain Hoey
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FBU’s stance on misconduct in fire and rescue services
The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has called for urgent action in response to a new report on misconduct within fire and rescue services.
The report, published by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS), outlines various issues and calls for improvements from leadership levels down.
The HMICFRS report includes 15 recommendations aimed at chief fire officers and fire and rescue authorities.
These recommendations highlight the need for each service to have a professional standards function for fair and transparent misconduct investigations, along with appropriate training and support for investigating staff.
FBU’s strong response to misconduct issues
In response to the report, Matt Wrack, the FBU general secretary, stressed the importance of a safe and respectful working environment for firefighters.
Wrack stated: “Firefighters must be able to go to work without fear of bullying, harassment and discrimination.
“Just as much as fire contaminants and other dangers, this is a matter of health and safety and basic rights at work.”
Wrack emphasized the union’s unwavering support for victims of such behaviour and criticized the current culture in some fire services: “Fire service employers cannot continue to run services as ‘boys clubs’ where firefighters are afraid to speak out.”
Survey highlights extent of misconduct
The report revealed that nearly one in three firefighters surveyed had experienced or witnessed an abuse of power in the last year.
This finding underscores the need for systemic changes within the fire and rescue services.
Wrack stated: “Chief fire officers have a duty to ensure senior managers are held to account and to build processes that the workforce can trust.”
The FBU’s commitment to equality is embodied in its All Different All Equal policy, which aims to combat discrimination in all forms within fire stations and control rooms.
Wrack affirmed: “The Fire Brigades Union is committed to fighting discrimination of all forms in fire stations and control rooms.
“We will continue to take a leading role in transforming the fire and rescue service.”
Call for immediate implementation of recommendations
The HMICFRS report’s recommendations call for immediate and comprehensive action from fire and rescue authorities.
Establishing a professional standards function and ensuring proper training for misconduct investigations are seen as crucial steps to improve the working environment.
The FBU’s response highlights the urgent need for change and the importance of creating a workplace where firefighters can perform their duties without fear of discrimination or harassment.