West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service selects FireWatch HR and rostering platform

West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service has selected FireWatch HR and rostering software to support 1,500 staff across 40 sites

West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service (WYFRS) has selected FireWatch, from LearnPro Group, as its new cloud-based human resources management, rostering and availability platform following an open Invitation to Tender process.

The multi-year contract will see FireWatch HR and rostering deployed across the service, supporting its wider digital modernisation programme and plans to deliver more efficient, data-driven and resilient digital services.

The platform will integrate HR, rostering, availability, training and operational data, providing WYFRS with a centralised system for managing its workforce and operational requirements.

FireWatch supports digital strategy

WYFRS’ Digital, Data and Technology department is investing in cloud technologies, automation, data analytics and integrated digital systems as part of its longer-term strategy.

The FireWatch HR and rostering platform will support this approach through integrated workforce, competency and operational data, alongside modelling for employees with multiple contracts, roles and working patterns.

The system will also provide live availability maps, station totals, resource redistribution tools and duty planning, alongside workflows for flexi-time, sickness, leave and time off in lieu.

Russell Wood, UK Market Lead at LearnPro Group, said the contract reflected a wider move towards integrated workforce systems across the fire sector.

“We’re excited to work with West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service as they invest in their HRM, rostering, and wider workforce systems,” he said.

“The FireWatch contract award highlights a growing trend across the sector: moving towards integrated solutions that simplify the user experience, eliminate duplication, and connect workflows and data in one place.”

Comprehensive FireWatch deployment

The deployment will include core HR functions covering organisational structures, personal and contract information, recruitment, payments and pensions, as well as employee performance and return-to-work processes.

Operational planning capabilities will include live availability information, resource redistribution, duty planning and support for multiple working patterns. Bi-directional mobilisation APIs will also allow incident and availability data to be exchanged.

WYFRS will also receive the FireWatch Mobile App, an SMS gateway for notifications and crewing exceptions, and Microsoft integrations covering Entra account management, single sign-on, SharePoint Online, Outlook and Microsoft To Do.

Additional capabilities include data intelligence dashboards and APIs, an AI chat assistant powered by Microsoft OpenAI, a LearnPro/pdrPro connector and payroll export and interface functionality.

Wood added that LearnPro Group was pleased to continue supporting the service with a platform designed to strengthen workforce management and support its future digital requirements.