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Fire Minister's address to the Asian Firefighters Association Conference
30/11/2008
The link below provides access to the Minister's address to the conference. The FOA attended this conference which highlighted the benefits of embracing diversity.
It was pleasing to hear CFOA President, Charlie Hendry, echo comments made in our Januuary 2007 paper to the Equality & Diversity Stakeholders Group, particulary by calling for greater external scrutiny to assess compliance with equality legislation and for the imposition of sanctions where a service is failing to meet its responsibilities.
Members will receive a more detailed report of the conference in due course but in the meantime, CLICK HERE to access the Minister's address.
English Fire and Rescue Service Circulars
30/11/2008
Circular FRSC 62/2008 has been issued to mark the 20th anniversary of the Foam Filled Furniture regulations and the impact these regulations have had on the number of domestic fire deaths and casualties.
An accompanying booklet Safer Houses" gives a history ot preventaive activities over the last 20 years.
The Association attended a reception at the House of Commons on 25th November where the booklet was launced. BERR Minister Gareth Thomas and CLG Minister Sadiq Khan spoke about the successes of the regulations and fire prevention activities.
It is clear the the regulations have had a marked effect on fire safety but this is only part of the equaltion and the work of trading standards, building control and firefighters all have a part to play in reducing the number of fire deaths. This makes it very difficult to view any one area in isolation and to measure the effectiveness of initiatives and activities undertaken by the fire and rescue service. Despite this difficulty, the Association believes that the service would benefit from collaborative work to identify evaluation and techniques and meaures of success.
The other Circular (FRSC 63/2008) gives an update on fire and resilience programme highlights for November 2008.
The above circular launches the 2009 equality and diversity awards process.
The Association supports the award scheme as a means to recognise examples of good practice where people demonstrate commitment to equality and diversity and, as a result, make a real difference.
Members are encouraged to identify good practice in the areas of Leadership, Service Delivery or Partnership Working and consider nominating the person or team responsible.
Whilst people tend not to seek such recognition, sharing experiences and showing what can be achieved helps to spread good practice across the service to the benefit of all.
CFO FRANK SHEEHAN, WEST MIDLANDS FIRE & RESCUE SERVICE
20/11/2008
The Fire Officers’ Association is shocked over the sudden resignation of Chief Fire Officer Frank Sheehan and the reported circumstances of his departure.
It is not appropriate that we comment on the circumstances since they do not relate to professional conduct and the matter is being dealt with by West Midlands Police.
It is important to maintain stability in the operation of West Midlands Fire and Rescue Service and the FOA is keen to work with the fire authority and service management to ensure that the service continues to provide an effective service to communities in the West Midlands area.
CLG Publications: Operational information & Guidance
19/11/2008
The following documents were issued by CLG on 18th November 2008:-
FRS Circular (England) 60/2008: Complying with Fire Safety Law
19/11/2008
The above circular provides information on complying with fire safety law for owners (responsible persons) of premises providing accommodation on a payment basis.
The above circulars have been issued by CLG, these are: -
FRSC 58/2008 - This Circular has been withdrawn by CLG
FRSC 59/2008. This Circular (Publication of a consultation paper on statutory guidance - Best Value and Procurement: Workforce Matters in Best Value Authority Contracting) introduces a consultation paper on statutory guidance. The closing date for comment is 19th January 2009.
EMERGENCY SERVICES SHOW, 19th and 20th November 2008, Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire
5/11/2008
The FOA will be exhibiting within a new area for 2008 - the Blue Light Zone. Dedicated to the police, fire and ambulance services, it provides individual forces and associations with the platform to share information on key initiatives.
The show is aimed at procurement, operational and emergency planning officers. The Exhibition is free to attend, including the Emergency Response Zone and the Blue Light Zone.
Visit www.theemergencyservicesshow2008.com for further information and to register for both the Exhibition and the Conference.
The Conference (supported by the British Red Cross) explores both strategic and operational techniques of improving co-responding, targeting all ranks of operations and emergency planning.
Now in its third year, The Emergency Services Show is the definitive UK event for promoting multi agency collaboration, bringing together professional, government and voluntary emergency organisations and specialist equipment suppliers.
The event comprises of a free to attend exhibition and a high profile conference, providing an ideal opportunity for sourcing new products, sharing information and building relationships.
The Exhibition features over 300 stands showcasing the latest products, innovations and services available.
The Emergency Response Zone enables Category 1 & 2 Responders, NGOs, government, recovery and support organisations to highlight their role in an emergency. St John Ambulance will be exhibiting in the Zone, along with over 40 other exhibitors including International Rescue Corps, AAIB, ROSPA, RAF S&R Force, Mines Rescue Service Ltd, British Red Cross, Mountain Rescue, Highways Agency, Civil Contingencies Secretariat, RNLI, WRVS, HSE and Government Decontamination Service HQ.
Guidance Note 5/2008: New Provisions for Cash Equivalent Transfer Values (CETVs)
3/11/2008
This Guidance Note relates to transfer values for the new and old Firefighters Pension Schemes.
Scottish Minister announce formation of Community Fire Safety Working Group
3/11/2008
Following last week's publication of the Scottish FRS Inspector's report (Available from Scottish Resilience website) the Minister for Community Safety has announced the formation of a working group to examine how to reduce the level of fire death and injury in Scotland.
More detail is available from the Scottish Government press release.
The number of fire related injuries in Scotland remains alarmingly high in comparison to other parts of the UK and, in the FOA's opinion, the Scottish fire and rescue service can do more to impact on these figures. We believe that the service needs to become more sophisticated in how preventative activities are targeted towards the people most at risk.
We also support closer collaboration and sharing information on what techniques and initiatives produce measured improvement - both within Scotland and in other parts of the UK.
FRS Circulars (England) 56/2008 and 57/2008
3/11/2008
CLG have issued the following Circulars: -
FRSC 56/2008 outlines Fire and Resilience Highlights for October 2008
Firefighters Pension Schemes Circular (England) 8/2008: Commentary on Ill-health Pensions
24/10/2008
We are extremely pleased to advise that CLG, today, issued revised guidance on the management of ill-health pensions to fire and rescue authorities.
This Circular introduces guidance agreed by stakeholders following a series of Ill-Health Review Group meetings during early 2008. The FOA sincerely hopes that this Circular, together with revised guidance to Independent Qualified Medical Practitioners will allow fire and rescue authorities to make proper provision for firefighters who are no longer fit to undertake operational duties.
CLG have issued the above Circular and appendices as a follow-up to Circular 44/2008. It informs Fire and Rescue Authorities of the date for submitting proposed for local minority ethnic staff recruitment targets.
It also advises on proposals for setting higher targets for FRAs with very low minority ethnic working age populations.
The circular also contains information on the first national Fire and Rescue Service Equality and Diversity report.
Circular 53/2008 informs the FRS about specific guidance on Environmental Protection contained within a recently published Fire Service Manual FRSC 53/2008
Circular 54/2008 contains details of a revised Generic Risk Assessment for high rise firefighting FRSC 54/2008
English FRS Circular 52/2008: New Dimension Long Term Maintenance Contract Costs
7/10/2008
This Circular provides information about the costs of long-term maintenance contract for New Dimension equipment and vehicles. This contract has been procured by CLG via Firebuy Ltd.
This Circular refers to the setting aside of £2M of Capital Top Slicing in 2008/09, for allocation later in the financial year, to support detailed planning of training facilities and/or to fund any specific projects which support the required strategic approach.
Ministers have decided that the whole sum should be allocated to Strathclyde Fire and Rescue (SFR) to support the necessary securing of the site earmarked for development of a replacement training centre in the west of the central belt. The grant is being made on condition that the Scottish Government maintain an active role in determining aspects of design associated with capacity, types of scenarios, standard of delivery and access arrangements for personnel from other Fire & Rescue Services. SFR have accepted the offer of grant on these terms.
The above Circulars were issued on 30th September following MMNB and NJC meetings.
The first NJC 12/08 Part-time Workers (Prevention of Less Favourable Treatment) Regulations, provides an update on stayed test cases and movement towards dicussion within the NJC.
The second NJC 13/2008 is the first annual report of the MMNB and NJC Independent Chair
CLG today issued the above Circular relating to new Cash Equivalent Transfer Values - the copy available from the link below, includes the Club Transfer Factors produced by the Govrrnment Actuary's Department.
CLG is to set up a new Communities Group to bring together key communities-focused policies in the Department.
A new Director-General for the Group will be recruited (subject to Cabinet Office approval), following Susan Scholefield’s appointment as Director-General, Human Resources and Corporate Services, at the Ministry of Defence (MoD).
Pending a substantive appointment, Peter Housden has asked me to be Acting Director-General. Stuart Hoggan will in turn cover my role, as Acting Director for Empowerment.
Two teams will move to the new Communities Group - Local Democracy and Empowerment Directorate, which is renamed Empowerment Directorate and the Urban Green Space team, which moves from Local Economic Development and Renewal Directorate to Empowerment Directorate.
The core responsibilities of the Communities Group will be:
• leading across Government on building more cohesive, empowered and active communities
• implementation of the Communities in Control White Paper and the planned Community Empowerment, Housing and Economic Regeneration Bill
• the Social Enterprise Unit and Third Sector team
• the PREVENT element of the cross-government CONTEST strategy, with a departmental focus on a communities-based approach to violent extremism
• leading work with other Government departments, local partners and stakeholder groups on race equality, cohesion and faith issues, and issues affecting Gypsy and traveller communities
• mainstreaming equalities in our formulation and delivery of policy
• development of the Fire and Rescue Service, working with local fire and rescue services to prevent deaths, injuries and damage to property through the Fire Kills campaign and other activities
• the Fire and Resilience Programme, ensuring the Fire and Rescue Service is equipped to deal with major emergencies and disasters
• European policy and programmes, and emergency recovery
• migration: optimising the benefits for communities and managing the transitional impacts.
Visit the FOA stand at the Emergency Services Show 2008, 19-20 November
18/9/2008
The third Emergency Services show will be held on 19th and 20th November at Stoneleigh Park, Coventry, Warwickshire.
The FOA will be present at Stand F15 in the Blue Light Zone where representatives will be on hand to meet existing and prospective members anf answer questions about the Association and our aims.
Agreement on the introduction of revised commutation factors in Scotland
9/9/2008
We are delighted to report that the Scottish Government has now announced that £32m will be available to fund the introduction of revised commutation factors for the Fire and Police pension schemes.
Hazel Blears' speech to the 2008 Fire and Rescue Conference
8/9/2008
A copy of the Secretary for State for Communities and Local Government's speech to the 2008 Fire and Rescue Conference in Liverpool is now available from the CLG website -
Details of instructional vacancies at the Scottish Fire Services College have been published and are available from the College website at the following link: - Vacancy Notice 04/2008
FRSC 49/2998 [England] Financial Arrangements for Firefighter Pensions
3/9/2008
This circular invites fire and rescue authorities to complete an accompanying return of firefighter pension costs.
See FRS Online for the August FRS Newsletter as well previous editions.
FRS Circular 48/2008(England): Community Infrastructure Levy
3/9/2008
CLG have released the above circular which highlights the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) and dicusses how this might be relevant to fire and rescue authorities.
This Circular introduces Fire Research Series 13/2008 research report "Understanding people’s attitudes towards fire risk Final report to Communities and Local Government"
English FRSC 42/2008 Evaluation of the Home Fire Risk Check & Fire Prevention Grant Programmes
14/8/2008
CLG is evaluating the impact of the £25 million invested in the HFRC programme over the last four years and also the additional investment of £11.4 million in the Fire Prevention Grant programme.
The Circular invites fire & rescue authorities to complete and return the attached questionnaire
This circular advises fire and rescue authorities about new guidance setting out the factors for the purchase of additional service within the New Firefighters’ Pension Scheme.
This Pensions Circular informs Fire and Rescue Authorities about new guidance and factors used for the purpose of purchasing additional service in the NFPS.
This circular seeks the views of regions, through their Regional Management Boards on CLG's preferred option for apportioning the shared costs for running the Regional Control Centre network.
The deadline for responses is 31 October 2008. A copy of this Circular is available from the following link - FRS Circular 41/2008
FRS Circulars (England)
5/8/2008
A copy of Circular, 38/2008 relating to Fire & Resilience Programme Highlights - July, 2008, can be found HERE
Fire and Rescue Service Circular 40/2008 relates to Financial arrangements for Firefighter Pensions; top-up Grant Payments and this can be found at the following link FRSC 40/2008
FRS Circular (England): FiReControl Project and Water (Hydrants)
4/8/2008
This Circular provides information on an agreement between Communities and Local Government and the water companies in England to provide hydrant information to fire and rescue services
FRS Circular 37/2008: Operational Assessment of Service Delivery Update, England
31/7/2008
This Circular has been issued by CLG to advise the fire and rescue service of progress with further development of the Operational Assessment of Service Delivery Toolkit. Download a copy from the CLG Website orHERE
Fire and Rescue Circulars: England
29/7/2008
New FRS circulars have been issued by Communities and Local Government:
PFI for the Fire and Rescue Service Round 6 FRSC 35/2008
Update on the New Dimension LTCM Project and Three-Year Funding Allocation FRSC 36/2008
Fire Research Series 9
22/7/2008
This document provides information on socio-demographic indicators of dwelling fires and dwelling fire injuries and deaths in an effort to assist fire and rescue services to target community fire safety initiatives. A copy is available from the CLG website via the link below.
This Circular informs the FRS about the issue of statutorty guidance 'Creating Strong, Safe and Prosperous Communities'. It also advises of proposals for a new statutory duty for upper tier and unitary local authorities to assess the economic conditions of their area. FRAs are likely to be named as statutory consultees
This Circular provides information about the age restrictions on the sale of matches and lighters and asks fire and rescue services to provide data and evidence about young people setting secondary fires and what the source of ignition for those fires might be.
FRS Circular 31/2007
19/7/2008
This circular contains information about: -
1. The FRS Equality and Diversity Strategy;
2. The 2008 Equality and Diversity Award Scheme results; and
3. Research on firefighters’ workplace experiences
We encourage members to read this circular, paying particular attention to the awards scheme which we believe to be a very positive step for the fire and rescue service.
The scheme recognises the efforts of individuals and teams within the service who strive, often in spite of FRS policies and customs, to deliver equality and diversity in a real and practical way.
We recommend that members support the scheme by helping to disseminate and learn the good practice demonstrated by winners and runners-up.
Please be on the look out for other examples of good practice that you can help to share across the FRS by making a nomination for the 2009 awards.
Results of the firefighters survey can also be found at Full report and a summary is available at Summary
Finally, the English Equality and Diversity Strategy document is available HERE
FRS Circular 30/2008: Attendance Management
19/7/2008
This Circular provides an update on the outcome of the study undertaken by Communities and Local Government, working in partnership with the Health and Safety Executive.
The study examined policy and practice in absence management in five selected fire and rescue services in England. A copy is available via the link below: -
Audit Scotland Progress Report on Scottish fire and rescue authorities
17/7/2008
Audit Scotland today published its progress report on Scottish fire and rescue authorities. This report assesses progress made since the 2006 Performance Audit carried out jointly by Audit Scottish and the Fire Service Inspectorate.
The Department for Communities and Local Government, through Firebuy Ltd, has procured a long-term maintenance contract to ensure the maintenance and repair of the New Dimension assets for the next 16 years. This circular informs fire and rescue services of the contract award decision
CLG have published information on the Business Case for FiReControl, anyone wishing to access this can do so via the CLG website using the folowing link - FiRreControl Business Case
They have also published a leaflet on the subject of Controls and this is accessible from the link below FiReControl Update Leaflet
Summary Report on the Review of National Procurement Strategy
4/7/2008
Report on the Review of National Procurement Strategy for the Fire and Rescue Service (FRS) and Firebuy Ltd
New Head of Scottish Fire and Rescue Advisory Unit
4/7/2008
The FOA congratulates Brian Fraser, currently Chief Fire Officer of South Wales FRS, on his appointment to the post of Head of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Advisory Unit.
Circular 12/2008, issued today provides additional information on index linking for Additional Pension Benefits for LSI and CPD payments arising from the frequently asked questions appended to a previous Circular.
The Organisational Development Centre at the Fire Service College, Moreton-in-March are aware that some fire and rescue services have indicated they have a need for Assessor and/or Centre Manager training.
Members who might be in need of such training are advised to make their FRS aware of this need so that they can respond to the ODC who are currently assessing requirements in this area.
CLG Fire & Rescue Circular 28/2008
2/7/2008
The above CLG Circular provides a summary of noteable events within the fire and rescue service during June 2008. A copy is available for the link below.
The above Circular gives and update of findings and recommendations from the Review of National Procurement Strategy for the Fire and Rescue Service 2005-08 and Firebuy Ltd and Annex 'Review of National Procurement Strategy for the FRS and FireBuy Ltd'
The replacement of Section 2 of the 6th edition of the Nataional Scheme of Conditions of Service with a set of principles for fairness and dignity in the workplace - NJC Joint Circular 08/2008
The provision of an update on the status of emplyment tribunal claims relating to Part-time Workers (Prevention of less favourable treatment) Regs. following the outcome of a test case, commenced in 2000 - NJC Joint Circular 09/2008
The creation of a mechanism for reviewing and amending Role Maps and National Occupational Standards - NJC Joint Circular 10/2008
Recognition of the value and provision of support for the development of staff skills and qualifications - NJC Joint Circular 11/2008
To advise the service on the basis for calculating additional pension benefits for CPD and LSI payments, the Scottish Government has issued Circular 10/2008 along with a supporting Government Actuary's Department paper.CPD Pension Factors
FRS Circular (England)
3/6/2008
This CLG circular informs the Fire and Rescue about a new Fire Service Manual on Incident Command. This manual supersedes Volume 2, Incident Command 2nd Edition.
This CLG document looks at risk assessment tools, techniques and data for the Civil Contingencies Act and Integrated Risk Management Planning.
It contains advice on the availability, selection and use of risk assessment tools, techniques, data and guidance to support the obligations of the LRFs under the Civil Contingencies Act 2004 and risk analysis for IRMPs Fire Research Series 5/2008
FRS Circular 23/2008 - FRS Highlights
29/5/2008
This Circular offers information about current events to Fire and Rescue Authorities (FRAs) and FRS staff.
The FOA congratulates today's award winners and hope that recogition of their efforts will serve to motivate everyone in the fire and rescue service to demonstrate similar commitment to deliveriing and maintaining a fair and diverse service.
Details of the awards and the winners are available from the CLG website -
Scottish Public Pensions Agency Circular 9/2008 was issued on 22nd May 2008. This document advises fire and rescue services on the extension of BUPAs contract for the provision of Medical Referees to hear appeals under Rule H2 of the 1992 FPS and Part 6, Rule 2 of the 2006 Firefighters Pension Scheme.
Circular 5/2008, issued today, advises on changes to the commutation factors applicable to the 1992 Firefighters Pension scheme. There is no longer any differentiation between men and women in respect of the value that applies to each £100 of pension benefit drawn down as a commuted lump sum.
For normal retirement, one commutation table is now used for both sexes and a different approach to calculation the value of a lump sum is applied.
Instead of simply multiplying each £100 of commuted pension by the appropriate table value, the factor is taken from the table as a multiplier for the amount of pension commuted. Examples are given in the Circular and accompanying guides which can be accessed from the links below.
Another difference is that the multiplier is reduced for each completed month beyond age 50, thereby having a maximum value of 19 at age 50, dropping to 18.98 at age 50 years and 1 month and so on until reaching a value of 14 at age 65.
The change takes effect retrospectively from 1st October 2007 and will be applied to people who retired after that date.
CLG has now issued the National Framework document for England along with the Government response to the consultation exercise. To obtain copies, s ee the links below: -
The FOA is extremely pleased to see that the Scottish Government has issued new guidance to fire and rescue authorities on ill-health retirement in the Scottish service.
This guidance addresses the situation, created by previous guidance, that could have resulted in firefighters being dismissed from the service should they became unable to perform operational duties because of illness or injury.
The new guidance ensures that an ill-health pension is available where a person cannot continue to perform the duties associated with their role as a member of the fire and rescue service.
Whilst we are pleased that this guidance has been issued, we are disappointed that the matter was not dealt with in 2006 when the potential for denial of access to an ill-health pension was first identified.
It should be noted that this new guidance only applies to Scotland but it is hoped that work currently being undertaken by an English-led Fire and Rescue Ill Health Review Group will soon deliver a similar solution for the rest of the UK.
Copies of the Circular and guidance are available below: -
Local Government Pension Scheme - Amendment Regs. Covering Letter
25/4/2008
CLG has issued a covering letter explaining the provision of a third tier of ill health retirement benefits and other measures arising from the Amendment Regulations that came into force in England on 1st April 2008.
A copy of this letter is available from the following link Covering Letter
CLG Circulars: Convoy arrangements / IRMP Returns
10/4/2008
Two English FRS Circulars were published today, details and copies are available below.
Circular 12/2008 outlines the procedures and guidance to be adopted when emergency response vehicles are mobilised, in convoy, to large scale incidents. FRSC 12/2008: Convoy Arrangements
Circular 13/08 informs fire and rescue authorities about revisions to the current annual operational statistics returns submitted to the Fire Statistics and Research Division. FRSC 13/2008 Changes to Annual IRMP Returns
Local Government Pension Scheme for England and Wales: Guidance
8/4/2008
CLG has issued Commentry Guidance for the Local Government Pension Scheme for England and Wales. This guidance provides infromation on how the revised LGPS in intended to operate.
England: Fire & Rescue Service Circular 11/2008: Resilience Grant
1/4/2008
This circular, issued today, provides information on grant funding being awarded to fire and rescue authorities in relation to the New Dimension programme.
Issue No 3 of 'ON WATCH' the UK Maritime Incident Response Group newsletter Winter 2007-08 has been published and a copy is available via the link below.
More information about the work of the MIRG is available from their website at - http://www.mirg.org.uk/
Summary Fire Statistics, United Kingdom, 2006
29/3/2008
This summary presents key statistics on fires, casualties and false alarms attended by the Fire and Rescue Services in the United Kingdom in 2006. It provides information about the causes of fires and fire-related casualties in the United Kingdom.
Fire and Rescue Service Circular 09/2008 sets out the required content of Best Value Performance Plans for their final year. A copy is available via the following link
Cirsular 10/2008 is the first of a series of monthly “highlights” notes to be issued by the CLG, They will replace their previously issued bulletins and they are intended to inform senior FRS staff of progress with the Fire and Resilience Programme.
Peter Betts, Director of Fire and Resilience will be leaving CLG at the end of March to head up the UK's negotiating team on climate change. The FOA wishes Peter every success in this new position.
From April 1st Sandy Bishop (currently Deputy Director for Fire and Rescue Development) will be assuming the post of Acting Director of Fire and Resilience pending the appointment of a permanent succesor via a competitive selection process.
CFRAU Report - Facing the Challenge
18/3/2008
The Chief Fire and Rescue Adviser’s Unit has published a review of the operational response by the Fire and Rescue Service to the widespread flooding in England during 2007.
A copy of the document is available from the link below
Scottish FRS Circular 03/2008: Capital Top Slice allocations
17/3/2008
The Scottish Government , today issued the above circular advising the service of capital funding bids that had either been approved or approved in principle.
This Circular advises that the Tribunal found for the Claimants as they were engaged in broadly similar work as their named comparators. It also found that the Claimants were treated less favourably than their named comparators in respect of access to pension rights and payment for sickness absence.
It is considered that it will take some time to determine the impact of this judgement and the remedies that will be necessary. Joint Circular 03/2008
The Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act 2007, which comes into force in April 2008, sets out a new offence committed by an organisation where a gross failure in the way activities were managed or organised results in a person’s death.
This circular points out an exception to the Act that applies to the way in which fire and rescue authorities respond to emergency circumstances.
This circular advises the FRS that a Partnership Working Toolkit for Local Area Agreements is now available from the CLG website. The toolkit is intended to assist Fire and Rescue Authorities in contributing to the development of Local Area Agreements
This circular contains information about the expected implementation funding for the FiReControl project for the three financial years covered by the 2007 Comprehensive Spending Review (2007/08 - 2010/11). FRS Circular 5/2008 FireControl Implementation Funding
This circular advises FRAs on FPS and NFPS Amendments that allow for the pensionability of Long Service Increment and CPD payments to be dealt with through Additional Pension Benefit arrangements. Providing also for two pensions (or split pension) arrangements in the FPS.
Local Government Pension Scheme - England & Wales Consulation & Guidance
7/3/2008
A Government consultation paper seeking opinions on how best to provide the basis for future cost-sharing in the local government pension scheme has been published.
Members may submit views directly or via Head Office if they are to inform a response by the Association. The document can be obtained from the following link: -
The Scottish Government, today, issued the above Circular regarding the new UK Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act 2007 which comes into effect from 6 April 2008.
The Circular explains that the Act introduces a new offence of corporate homicide which is committed by an organisation where a gross failure in the way activities are managed or organised, results in a person’s death, and this amounts to a gross breach of a relevant duty of care owed by the organisation to the deceased.
The Act will apply to a wide range of public and provate sector organisations
Whilst Corporate homicide will be a corporate liability rather than applying to persons, individuals can still be prosecuted for culpable homicide and health and safety offences.
Section 6 of the Act provides a limited exemption for Fire and Rescue Authorities and Joint Fire and Rescue Boards in connection with responses to emergencies.
More information is available from the following links: -
The FOA has been advised that the LGPS Administration and Transitional Regulations 2008 (which will govern the new Scheme from 1 April 2008) have now been laid before Parliament.
On 10th February 2008 The Scottish Government announced plans to safeguard the pension rights of Scotland's firefighters.
The FOA welcomes the Scottish Government’s decision to amend guidance on access to ill-health pensions.
This deals with the situation created by 2006 UK guidance where a firefighter who becomes unfit for normal duties could be dismissed on grounds of capability instead of being awarded an ill-health pension.
We considered this situation to be totally unacceptable and made the Scottish Minister for Community Safety aware of our views at the end of 2007. It is good to see that our opinions and those of others have been taken on board.
The situation for the rest of the UK remains unchanged and discussions are ongoing with Communities and Local Government.
We would like to see a consistent approach taken across the whole of the UK so it is sincerely hoped that the Scottish solution will be applied elsewhere.
The Scottish Government reconised these concerns and following representations by staff organisations, Ministers have agreed to introduce revised guidance for Scotland's eight Fire and Rescue Authorities (FRAs) to remove the uncertainty.
Fergus Ewing, the Minister for Community Safety, said:
"We view the changes made in the 2006 guidance as unfair as they could potentially result in a firefighter seriously injured in the line of duty being both denied access to an ill-health retirement pension and possibly losing his or her job.
"The people of Scotland are well aware of the debt we owe to our fire & rescue professionals and the risks they take to protect our communities.
"We owe it to them, to ensure they are treated fairly."
The issue is also being considered in England and Wales and proposals to address the situation were discussed at Westminster on January 23.
Commenting on these proposals, Mr Ewing added:
"I did not consider that the arrangements proposed in England to resolve the situation offered a fair, workable or timely way of resolving this issue.
"I have therefore instructed officials to revised current guidance in Scotland to resolve the situation for our fire and rescue staff here."
A regular firefighter is entitled to an ill-health retirement award/pension (IHR) under the Fire Pension Scheme if permanently disabled from the performance of duty.
Under the Scheme, 'disablement' is defined as 'incapacity, occasioned by infirmity of mind or body, for the performance of duty'. The definition of regular firefighter includes the requirement to 'fight fires and undertake other duties appropriate to the person's role'.
The question of entitlement to pension awards is a matter for each FRA. However, before considering this, they must obtain the opinion of an independent qualified medical practitioner on questions relating to disablement and that opinion is binding on the authority.
Under the current guidance issued to the independent assessor, disablement can only be granted if the fire-fighter is assessed as unable to perform ALL of his/her duties. Thus, it is possible that a person could be assessed by the independent assessor as being capable of undertaking some non-operational roles and therefore ineligible for IHR, but that the FRA does not have a suitable post. In such situations, the issue would be an employment (not a pension) matter.
Under the Firefighter's Compensation Scheme, retained fire-fighters have an entitlement to ill health and injury awards when retired for reasons of permanent disablement, if the infirmity was duty related. However, in order to access this benefit they too have to be assessed as permanently disabled from the performance of duty.
English Local Government Pension Scheme
10/2/2008
Members will be aware that changes are being made to the Local Government Pension Scheme in England. For anyone who in is interested in keeping up to date with the progress and impact of changes to the Pension Scheme might be interested in the following links to CLG Newsletters on the subject: -
CLG Newsletter No 1 (November)
A news release by Communities and Local Government, containing Ministerial comment, is available from: CLG News Release
Reforms Announced for Fire and Rescue Service Audit - Scotland
31/1/2008
Letter from: Director-General Justice and Communities:
As you are probably aware, Jeff Ord, the previous Chief Inspector of Fire and Rescue Services, left his post at the end of November. Ministers have been considering how to replace him. I am writing to let you know how Ministers have decided to proceed.
The Fire Inspectorate has a proud history. But every institution needs to be reviewed from time to time and to adapt to changing circumstances and needs.
The Government is clear that it needs to employ experienced Fire and Rescue Services staff of the necessary calibre and credibility. This will ensure that Ministers and officials have access to in-house advice that is independent, grounded and realistic, and that the Government can continue to provide professional support to Chief Fire Officers and challenge them on professional issues where necessary.
However Professor Crerar’s recent review of scrutiny argued that responsibility for compliance and performance should rest with service providers. It is right that performance management of fire and rescue services sits best with the local authorities who are responsible for the services and accountable to local communities that depend on them.
The Accounts Commission also has scrutinising duties and powers for fire and rescue authorities and boards, including Best Value, annual audit and national studies. Audit Scotland will continue to carry out work on its behalf.
Against this background Ministers have decided that a separate Fire inspectorate is not necessary. However the Government do wish to establish a Fire and Rescue Services Advisory Unit. The Head of Unit post will be advertised as a fixed term appointment for 3 years.
Applications will be invited from serving principal Officers from across the UK, with preference given to those with experience at Brigade Manager level.
The Government plans to invite Parliament to repeal the statutory provisions allowing Inspectors to be appointed. Prior to legislation there will be the normal period of consultation.
FRS Circular 3/2008: New local performance framework - Place Survey
30/1/2008
The above CLG Circular advises the service that the three-yearly Best Value User Satisfaction Survey will be replaced by a "Place Survey". This changes the emphasis from consulting on services to seeking views about a particular place.
Consultation on Place Survey is underway with the closing date being 8th February - the consulation document can be obtained from this link Place Survey Consultation
Local Government Finance Settlement 2008/09 - England
25/1/2008
Information on the Local Government Finance Settlement 2008/09 and Provisional 2009/10 and 2010/11 Settlements is available from the Communities and Local Government Website. We are not yet in a position to assess its impact upon the fire and rescue service. This is only likely to be known once authorities have considered their priorites and brought forward spending plans for 2008-09 onwards
We are deeply saddened by the tragic death of Watch Manager John Noble, of Central Scotland Fire and Rescue Service. The FOA’s sympathies are extended to John’s family, friends and colleagues.
Our thoughts are also with the three other firefighters from Alloa who were injured in the road traffic collision that occurred yesterday. We wish them a full and speedy recovery.
This is a sad reminder of the risks faced by members of the fire and rescue service on a daily basis, whether actively engaged in firefighting or responding to what they believe to be an emergency.
Comprehensive Area Assessment Roadshows
21/1/2008
The Audit Commission is running a series of 'roadshow' events around England to provide information on what can be expected during future audits and to give an update on developments.
Some of dates have passed but others are available. For more information follow the link below: -
2007-2008 New Year Honours - Fire and Rescue Service
3/1/2008
CBE
YOUNG, Paul, O.B.E., Chief Fire Officer, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Local Government.
OBE
RIDDELL, Barbara Elizabeth, Mrs., Director of Resources, London Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire and Rescue Service.
MBE
FARNDON, John William, Fire Control Officer, Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Local Government.
HOWE, Michael George, Station Manager (Retained), Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Local Government.
NEWTON, David Edison, Fire Fighter, Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Local Government.
REES, Councillor Derek Neville, Chair, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Local Government.
ROBERTS, Nigel Paul, Officer-in-Charge, Corwen Fire Station. For services to Local Government and to the community in North Wales.
RYAN, Philip, Retained Station Manager, Tewkesbury Community Fire Station, Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Flood Rescue
SHAKESBY, Miss Victoria Susan, Watch Manager, Humberside Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Local Government.
SHAW, Ms Andrea Margaret, Assistant Control Manager, South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Flood Rescue
SYKES, Isobel, Mrs., Retained Crew Manager, Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Local Government.
Q.F.S.M.
ENGLAND AND WALES
CHARLSTON, Nigel Thompson, Senior Fire Safety Manager, West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service.
FYFE, Robert, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service.
PARRY, John, Chief Fire Officer, Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service.
WEBB, David Michael, Chief Fire Officer, Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service.
SCOTLAND
RUSSELL, John, Scottish Community Fire Safety Co-ordinator, Strathclyde Fire and Rescue.
WOOD, Anthony, Deputy Chief Officer, Highlands and Islands Fire and Rescue Service.
Scottish Fire & Rescue Sevices: Capital Grant 2008/09
22/12/2007
The Scottish Government has confirmed that it will continue the ring fence arrangements for Fire LA Capital Grant and its allocation by reference to priorities set by Ministers. The decision is based on an expectation that FRAs should continue to invest in the development of the service and to improve Scotland’s ability to respond to major national threats. The sum available from this source is £24.6m pa in 2008/09, 2009/10 and 2010/11.
Ministers have invited FRAs, to prepare and submit bids for the followng areas of priority for which Ministers are keen to support in the collective interest:-
• National Resilience – where, in response to Cabinet Office or Scottish Government guidance, investment is identified by the New Dimensions forum to enhance Scotland’s collective resilience and capability to respond to major national threats.
• Invest to save initiatives - investment in new equipment or facilities which will generate operational savings so that resources could be re-directed to other front line services.
• Investment in training facilities – investment in the service’s training facilities which support an efficient, effective and collaborative approach to the delivery and long term sustainability of the objectives of the FRS Learning and Development Strategy as published in January 2007.
• Initiatives to support and develop the use of the Retained Duty System – investment which develops and maintains the use of retained fire-fighters within the FRS.
Ministers have indicated that they are particularly keen to support collaborative bids which address any of the above criteria and would involve parnternship with other FRAs and/or other agencies.
Ministers have indicated that they wish to exercise their right to specify at a strategic level how the money is to be spent. It is nott certain what level of funding will be available as this will be dependant on the quality of the bids received. However not less than 50% of the total Fire LA Capital Grant will be allocated to FRSs on a formula basis. Bids should not be restrict ed to a single financial year and may cover the years 2009/10 and 2010/1.
