Our Community Risk Management Plan

Published in March 2023, examines the principles, standards of behaviour, and cultural practices within all 44 fire and rescue services (FRSs) in England. The report had 35 recommendations which the Service has evidenced compliance.

Published in August 2024, the report focuses on how FRSs handle misconduct with 15 recommendations. The Service actively show compliance, meeting each set deadline for each recommendation.

The Framework outlines the government's priorities and objectives for fire and rescue authorities (FRAs) in England. It is a statutory document, meaning FRAs must consider it when performing their duties. Under the FRNF, FRAs must make sure they provide the core functions specified by the Fire and Rescue Services Act 2004.

The GAS Committee offers independent advice and recommendations on governance, risk management, internal controls, financial reporting, and audits. Each year, it sets its own scrutiny programme to provide constructive feedback, which is reported back to the FRA to support service improvement.

To ensure best practices, we align our procedures, processes, and operational information with National Operational Guidance. This alignment provides clear guidance and risk information to our front-line responders, enhancing effectiveness, efficiency, and safety.

We publish an Annual Governance Statement and Statement of Assurance, offering transparency about our corporate governance, financial planning, and operational service. These documents are available on our website for public viewing.

This framework is a central part of our approach to risk management and continuous improvement. It integrates risk management principles to proactively manage risks, opportunities, performance, compliance, and improvements, by achieving the following objectives:

• Integrating a three-line model and Enterprise Risk Management principles.
• Providing clear guidance and actions for managers and staff.
• Ensuring effective delegation and direction processes.
• Defining accountabilities for risk management.
• Informing continuous improvement and fostering a learning culture.
• Recording and communicating corporate risks and mitigation strategies.
• Implementation of a Service Improvement Plan.

Our annual plans for internal and external audits assess compliance and show areas for improvement across key activities, including finance, digital services and service operations.

The Fire Standards Board oversees the development and maintenance of professional standards for fire and rescue services in England. Compliance with the currently published 19 standards is managed through an implementation toolkit, which helps measure progress over time.

We are committed to investing in the learning and development of our organisation and our people. Creating a supportive learning environment is essential for helping our employees to adapt and respond to challenges in an agile and effective manner. This commitment spans across all key areas: Prevention, Protection, Response, and People, and aligns with the objectives of our Strategic Plan. It makes sure that the Service is well-equipped to predict and prepare for the complexities and evolving challenges of our environment.