As we prepare for the 2026/27 financial year, Humberside Fire and Rescue Service is asking for your views on changes to the portion of Council Tax that helps fund fire and rescue services across the Humber region (East Riding of Yorkshire, Hull, North and North East Lincolnshire). This funding is alongside government grants.
Humberside Fire and Rescue Service faces uncertainty as the government is changing how grants are allocated nationally through the Fair Funding Review. From 2026/27, a new Local Government Fair Funding Formula will apply. This could mean the Service has less funding and would need to make savings over the next three years.
Even if the government’s assumption of a £5 annual increase happens (based on a Band D property) the Service’s budget could still reduce by up to £3 million, which is around 5% of the budget. Without that increase, the reduction could be as much as £5 million. These changes may require the Service to review how fire and rescue services are provided in the community.
Humberside Fire and Rescue Service recognises that any change to Council Tax impacts households.
Chief Fire Officer, Phil Shillito said: “We want to hear from our communities before any decisions are made. Your feedback helps us understand local views and plan for the year ahead.”
We want your feedback on
We are asking for your support by selecting one out of the four options below:
- Option 1: 2.99% increase – approx 26p/month (£3.08/year) on a Band D property
- Option 2: 4.85% increase – approx 42p/month (£4.99/year) on a Band D property
- Option 3: 9.71% increase – approx 83p/month (£9.99/year) on a Band D property (requires referendum, adding costs)
- Option 4: No increase
Take part here
This consultation is open to everyone and we value your input.
Please share your feedback before 5pm on Friday 30 January 2026.
The final recommendation will be considered by the Humberside Fire Authority at its meeting on 13 February 2026.
Take part in our online survey.
If you have any questions about the consultation or require it in an alternative format, please email: corporatecommunication@humbersidefire.gov.uk
A Word version of the form can be found below.
How is the Service funded
There are two main sources of funding for Humberside Fire and Rescue Service:
- The Council Tax precept, which is a portion of Council Tax raised locally.
- Grant funding from central government.
Humberside Fire Authority provides fire and rescue services to the communities of Kingston upon Hull, East Riding of Yorkshire, North and North East Lincolnshire, a population of nearly 950,000. Like many public sector organisations, the Authority faces financial challenges over the coming years and must plan carefully to manage resources effectively.
Decisions about the Council Tax precept influence the overall budget available for service delivery and planning.