Fire Sector Federation ready for action

Though originally established in 2010 as the Fire Sector Partnership, the organisation has now agreed a constitution and re-launched, following a merger with the Federation of British Fire Organisations (FOBFO).

 

Bringing together representatives from a range of stakeholders which make up the UK Fire Sector and wider built environment, the FSF acts as a forum for the discussion of fire-related issues and aims to develop policy and produce industry guidance for wider dissemination. 

 

At the heart of the FSF are a number of focused workstreams which examine in detail issues considered to be of particular importance to the fire sector. Currently established are workstreams to consider: technical guidance; statistics; technology; workforce development; procurement;  international issues; national policy; enforcement; fire investigation; and All Party Parliamentary Fire Safety Group activities. 

 

The FSF was originally established in response to the Fire Futures review. This strategic review of fire and rescue provision, launched in July 2010 by the Fire and Rescue Minister Bob Neill MP, was designed to enable sector partners to shape the future direction of fire policy in England.

 

As a result of the review, the Government made it clear that it no longer intended to control and direct the way fire and rescue services and cross-sector functions are managed, and instead expects the fire sector to take a lead in shaping policy.

 

FSF Chairman Brian Robinson explained the intended role for the Federation: 

The FSF aims to fill the void left by Government. It plans to develop policy by providing a broad spectrum of opinion from the fire sector, releasing views and advice on behalf of the unified sector. It also aims to cut silo mentality in working practices by addressing both the built and natural environment, as well as fire and rescue service issues.

 

Using the knowledge, experience and skills that exist across the sector, the Federation aims to improve communication and cooperation to help drive efficiency, common policy and common standards. 

 

Membership is open to any organisation able to demonstrate a legitimate interest in the built, natural, fire and rescue service or national resilience environments.

 

For further information about the FSF, or to apply for membership, visit the FSF website: www.firesectorfederation.co.uk; or contact tel:  +44 (0)1608 812543; email: admin@firesectorfederation.co.uk