Welsh Government axes South Wales Fire Authority; Forest of Dean fire chiefs considering new station

Every weekday morning we bring you the sector’s freshest news stories, starting today with the news that the Welsh Government has removed the South Wales Fire and Rescue Authority, replacing it with four appointed Commissioners to provide oversight and scrutiny. The move comes after a damning review of South Wales Fire and Rescue Service found a culture of widespread discriminatory behaviour and failures of management at all levels

There’s also news that Forest of Dean fire chiefs are considering a new day shift station to increase cover across the county.

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South Wales Fire Authority axed as Welsh Government brings in Commissioners

In an unprecedented step for fire and rescue service governance in the UK, the Welsh Government has removed the South Wales Fire and Rescue Authority, replacing it with four appointed Commissioners to provide oversight and scrutiny.

The move comes after a damning review of South Wales Fire and Rescue Service found a culture of widespread discriminatory behaviour and failures of management at all levels. More via Emergency Services Times

Home Office launches Martyn’s Law consultation

The UK Home Office has launched a six-week consultation on Martyn’s Law, to ensure people are better prepared for, and protected from, terrorist attacks.

The consultation will specifically focus on the updated approach to standard tier, seeking views to make sure the new requirements do not place undue burdens on smaller businesses, while still protecting the public. More via Home Office

Police force helps young vehicle technician onto the career ladder

Having qualified with a Level 3 in Light Vehicle Maintenance & Repair at St Austell College, Holly Treleaven entered into a 12-month internship with Dorset Police (hosts of the Devon and Cornwall Police force fleet).

Now, she’s got a permanent position within the fleet’s workshop, highlighting the huge difference apprenticeships and similar schemes can make to both employers and those looking to start a career. More via Emergency Services Times

PFEW shines spotlight on importance of building a service that reflects communities

On Race Equality Week, the Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW) shines a spotlight on the importance of building a service that reflects communities and encourages the recruitment of officers and staff from minority ethnic groups. More via PFEW

Forest of Dean fire chiefs considering new station

Fire and rescue bosses are considering a new day shift station in the Forest of Dean as part of plans to increase cover across the county.

The preferred option, which is due to be considered by Gloucestershire County Council’s cabinet this week, could see an extra 14 firefighters recruited. More via Forest of Dean Review

Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week 2024

Kit Salt, Head of Assessment at SFJ Awards, shares the experiences of blue light apprentices both past and present, including tips for people interested in following similar paths. More via Emergency Services Times

Fire service buys ‘pre-loved’ appliances to cut costs

A fire service has revealed it has started buying “pre-loved fire engines” to replace its decades old appliances as a means of balancing its books.

North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service recently replaced part of its 20-year-old fleet with 11-year-old appliances from a fire service that was replacing its equipment with brand new vehicles. More via Richmondshire Today

DFT issues guidance on e-cycle batteries to minimise fire risk

The Department for Transport (DFT) has issued new guidance on e-cycle and e-scooter batteries to minimise the fire risk they pose to premises.

The guidance, which is not a legal compliance document, aims to provide premises managers with tools, resources and options around risk management while safeguarding the utility of these modes of transport for users. More via Department for Transport