The King accepts Patronage of The Fire Fighters Charity

His Majesty King Charles III has accepted the Patronage of The Fire Fighters Charity.

This announcement coincides with the anniversary of Their Majesties’ Coronation and continues the Royal Patronage that began with Queen Elizabeth II in 1953.

The late Queen held the Patronage for 69 years until her death in September 2022, expressing great affection for the charity throughout her reign.

Chief Executive Sherine Wheeler expressed the organisation’s pride in welcoming The King as their new Patron.

Wheeler said: “We are honoured to have been chosen as one of His Majesty’s charities and are immeasurably proud to welcome The King as our Patron.

“The Patronage of The late Queen, over almost seven decades, reflected the high regard in which our fire and rescue services – and those who work for them – are held by the Royal Household.

“So, I am delighted that we can continue to honour this legacy under the Patronage of His Majesty The King.”

Continued royal support for The Fire Fighters Charity

The Fire Fighters Charity has a long history of support from the Royal Household.

Queen Elizabeth II referred to the organisation as an “outstanding charity” in a letter marking their Diamond Jubilee year.

John Baines, Chair of The Fire Fighters Charity’s Trustee Board, echoed the sentiment of gratitude: “On behalf of the Charity’s Board of Trustees, all our beneficiaries, and indeed all those who work for our fire and rescue services, I am proud to welcome His Majesty The King as Patron of The Fire Fighters Charity.”

In recent years, the charity has worked closely with The Royal Foundation and has been part of the Emergency Responder Senior Leaders Board.

This collaboration included a visit from Prince William, the then Duke of Cambridge, to Harcombe House in 2019, highlighting the ongoing relationship between the charity and the Royal Family.

Legacy of royal patronage

The Fire Fighters Charity began its Royal Patronage with Queen Elizabeth II when she became the Patron of the then Fire Services National Benevolent Fund.

Her 69-year Patronage helped the charity grow and receive recognition for its services to fire and rescue personnel.

Sherine Wheeler emphasised the importance of this legacy: “The Patronage of The late Queen reflected the high regard in which our fire and rescue services are held by the Royal Household.

“Continuing this under the Patronage of His Majesty The King is a significant honour for us.”

Commitment to supporting fire and rescue services

The Fire Fighters Charity remains dedicated to supporting those who serve in fire and rescue roles.

Their work, bolstered by Royal Patronage, continues to provide essential services and support to firefighters and their families.