The fire service inspectorate has announced the service has been removed from enhanced monitoring following improvements to the service (7/3).
The service had been placed under special measures following the publication of a damning report by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) in November 2023.
Two major causes of concern were flagged, with the service deemed inadequate at protecting the public through fire regulation, and needing to improve equality, diversity and inclusion across the workforce.
Improvements have been made through a working group involving FBU representatives who have welcomed today’s announcement while calling for sustained investment in the service.
Mitchell Wallace, acting FBU brigade secretary for Buckinghamshire said:
“The Fire Brigades Union has pushed for urgent improvements to Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service over the past year in the interest of the safety of firefighters and the public.
“FBU representatives have been involved in overseeing and contributing towards a wave of positive changes in the service, including establishing staff networks for under-represented groups. The initial successes of this approach shows what can be achieved when fire and rescue services involve the voice of the frontline in driving change.
“These are positive first steps but Buckinghamshire still faces a crisis, with more than 1 in 3 firefighters lost to cuts since 2010. The service needs sustained and serious investment for the future, and the FBU will continue to work tirelessly to realise our collective aim of sustained improvements.”
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