National survey aims to assess firefighter mental health needs

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has launched a research project to examine the mental health of firefighters across the UK.

The study, commissioned by the FBU and independently conducted by the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), will survey firefighters about how their work impacts their mental health, what support is available, and what improvements are needed.

There is no standardised mental health guidance specific to firefighters in the UK, despite the demands of the profession.

The research aims to provide data-driven recommendations to improve support across the fire service.

Survey seeks 10,000 firefighter responses

The study aims to gather at least 10,000 responses from serving firefighters through an online survey.

Steve Wright, FBU general secretary, encouraged participation: “We’re calling on all serving firefighters in the UK to take part in this ground-breaking research into firefighter mental health.

“Firefighting is an intensive and highly skilled profession, and every day we hear from firefighters who are facing increasing and preventable pressures at work.”

He added: “Firefighters are being let down by patchy and inconsistent support, without standard policies.

“We need firefighters across the UK to take this survey and help build a clearer picture of how fire and rescue services can better support the frontline.

“Together we are determined to improve mental health in our service.”

University of Central Lancashire leads independent research

The study is led by Dr Carolina Campodonico, Senior Lecturer in Clinical Psychology at UCLan, who highlighted the challenges faced by firefighters: “Firefighters across the UK face immense physical and emotional demands, yet mental health support remains inconsistent and underutilised.”

Dr Campodonico noted that similar research in countries such as the US, Canada, and Australia has led to stronger national policies for first responders.

“This is a vital opportunity for all serving firefighters to have their voices heard while remaining anonymous,” she said.

“Our research is independent, shaped by the needs of the fire service community, and aims to provide clear, evidence-based recommendations to improve mental health support.

“Every firefighter who takes part will be helping to create meaningful change—now is the time to speak up.”

Mental health concerns in the UK fire service

A 2019 study by mental health charity Mind found that 60% of surveyed fire service workers reported personal experiences of mental health problems.

Despite these findings, there has been little action from leadership to systematically address the issue across the fire and rescue service.

The FBU’s latest study seeks to identify causes of poor mental health and develop strategies to enhance support for firefighters and fire control staff.

UK firefighter mental health study seeks 10,000 participants: Summary

The Fire Brigades Union has commissioned the University of Central Lancashire to conduct a national survey on firefighter mental health.

The research aims to assess the impact of firefighting on mental health, review current workplace support, and recommend improvements.

With a goal of collecting at least 10,000 responses, the survey is open to all serving firefighters.

Steve Wright, FBU general secretary, said the study is needed due to inconsistent mental health support across fire services.

Dr Carolina Campodonico of UCLan highlighted that research in other countries has led to improved policies for first responders, and UK firefighters should receive the same level of commitment.

A 2019 study by Mind found that 60% of fire service workers reported mental health problems, but little action has been taken to address the issue at a national level.

The survey aims to provide evidence-based recommendations to improve firefighter mental health support in the UK.