NFCC publishes national review of on-call firefighter system

Sometimes referred to as retained firefighters, on-call firefighters are typically employed in other jobs and respond to incidents when alerted. They commit to remaining within a few minutes of their local Fire Station for a set number of hours each week so that they can respond to emergencies when called upon to do so. The on-call duty system covers around 90% of the UK landmass and provides the backbone of fire cover in rural and lower-risk areas.

Drawing on data collected from Fire and Rescue Services all over the UK, responses from over 1,600 on-call firefighters, Case Studies from each of the four nations and comparisons with international and other UK sectors, the study explored whether the on-call duty system remains fit for purpose. While attention and action are needed to address increasing pressures, on-call firefighters are absolutely vital for keeping communities safe.

However, dwindling numbers, persistent recruitment and retention difficulties and training requirements predominantly designed around full-time standards are serving to undermine long-term resilience.

The report sets out a spectrum of options for change, ranging from incremental local improvement through to fundamental sector-wide reform.

Acting on recommendations

Having commissioned the review with the support of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, the NFCC has welcomed its findings and already embarked on work designed to take forward the recommendations, particularly so those that fall directly within its remit.

The NFCC will also work closely with Fire and Rescue Services to better understand what’s viable for them to deliver locally, all the while recognising that lasting change must balance national co-ordination with local context, governance and resourcing.

Phil Garrigan OBE KFSM, chair of the NFCC, said:  “The on‑call duty system has served communities across the UK for generations, made possible by the commitment, skill and professionalism of on‑call firefighters who balance public service with their own lives beyond the Fire Station. It remains a cost‑effective and community‑rooted model of fire cover.”

Garrigan continued: “The findings of this study are clear about the pressures the system now faces, and also about the need for co‑ordinated action. Our focus must be on working alongside Fire and Rescue Services, Government, representative bodies and on‑call firefighters themselves, recognising their unique contribution so that the system continues to protect the public it serves.”

Reflections of reality

Steve Healey, the NFCC’s national on-call lead and Deputy Chief Fire Officer for the Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, stated: “I want to thank every firefighter, leader and stakeholder who contributed to this research. Their honesty has shaped a study that reflects the reality of on-call work today, particularly so in rural areas.”

In conclusion, Healey observed: “There is no single fix and meaningful progress will take time, but it’s very much the case that the evidence base for change is now stronger than it has ever been.”

*Further information is available online at www.nfcc.org.uk