A selection panel has appointed Nazir Afzal OBE to Chair a comprehensive and independent review of culture at England’s biggest fire and rescue service.  

The review comes following the tragic death of Firefighter Jaden Matthew Francois-Esprit in August 2020. Jaden was a trainee firefighter on the LFB’s apprenticeship scheme. Following an internal investigation, and recommendations from the Coroner, London Fire Commissioner Andy Roe earlier in 2021 announced his intention to establish a review to look into all aspects of the Brigade’s culture. 

London Fire Commissioner Andy Roe said: “Our internal investigation into Jaden’s death, and the inquest, unearthed tough questions. I firmly believe that this review will result in a better experience for everyone who works for LFB and for the people of London we are trusted to serve and protect.” 

Following a rigorous selection process involving a strong field of candidates, the appointment of Mr Afzal means that the review will be led by someone who has significant experience as one of the country’s most senior lawyers, has been Chief Executive of the Association of Police & Crime Commissioners, and is an advocate of seldom heard and marginalised communities, dealing with some of society’s most difficult issues. 

Speaking on his appointment Nazir Afzal OBE said: “This review is going to be wide-ranging and will look at all sorts of issues – from how London Fire Brigade supports its newest trainees, how it handles issues of neurodiversity, to how it acknowledges the fact that the Brigade is home to an increasingly diverse group of people. My initial discussions are also likely to point me to further areas that I will want to examine in time. 

“Soon, a wider review panel, reporting to me, will be in place who will bring their own ideas and experience to the review. It is an honour to have been asked to lead this independent review and I look forward to finding out much more about the London Fire Brigade.” 

London Fire Commissioner Andy Roe continued: “I believe that an independently-led, external review is the most robust way to help improve the Brigade. These are not easy issues for us to tackle and I am delighted to welcome Nazir and his team to the Brigade as they start to look at all aspects of our culture. He will look at everything from headquarters, to the culture at our fire stations and other sites across London.  

“I will be accountable for the Brigade delivering actions that arise from this review, which I hope will mean everyone within London Fire Brigade feels better supported and more able to bring their whole selves to work.” 

The review enjoys the support of the London Region of the Fire Brigades Union and the Mayor of London. The target for completion of this wide-ranging review, and anticipated communication of its findings is by November 2022.