The South Wales Fire and Rescue Authority has formally accepted all 82 recommendations from the Independent Culture Review Report, a decision made during a meeting held on 15 January 2024.

This acceptance marks a significant move towards enhancing the organisational culture within the Service.

Establishment of a Culture Review Implementation Committee

The Authority has established a Culture Review Implementation Committee to oversee the development and delivery of an Action Plan.

This committee will consist of five Authority members and co-opted external stakeholders, including domestic abuse advisors, representatives from ethnic minority groups, disability groups, and culture experts.

Their role will be critical in ensuring the comprehensive implementation of the recommendations.

Draft Action Plan Presented

Assistant Chief Officer Geraint Thomas, supported by Chief Fire Officer Huw Jakeway QFSM and Assistant Chief Officer of People Services Alison Reed, presented the Service’s Draft Action Plan for review.

The plan outlines the formation of four working groups focusing on distinct areas: policies and procedures, values, standards, leadership, training, promotions, recruitment, and culture, Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), communications.

The plan is divided into three timelines for implementing short-term actions (1-3 months), medium-term actions (3 to 9 months), long-term actions (9 to 18 months), and annual actions.

Timely Implementation and Transparency

The South Wales Fire and Rescue Authority is committed to timely and transparent implementation of the Action Plan.

The Authority meeting video is available for public viewing, reflecting a commitment to openness and community engagement in this process.

IFSJ Comment

The decision by the South Wales Fire and Rescue Authority to accept all recommendations from the Independent Culture Review Report signifies a proactive stance in addressing organisational culture and inclusivity.

The establishment of the Culture Review Implementation Committee, comprising both internal and external experts, is a strategic approach to ensure a diverse range of perspectives is considered.

The detailed Draft Action Plan, with its focus on policies, training, and culture, reflects a comprehensive strategy to bring about sustainable change within the Service.

This initiative is an important step towards creating a more inclusive and positive work environment, which is essential for the effective functioning of any emergency service.

By addressing issues such as diversity and inclusivity head-on, the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service demonstrates a commitment to not only its personnel but also to the communities it serves.

This process of continual improvement and adaptation is crucial for any public service, particularly one that deals with the safety and wellbeing of the public.