Experts to support firefighters' health and wellbeing

Professor Athanassios Bissas (L) said the project would help researchers "better understand the responses of the body to ongoing occupational stress"

A university is helping to support firefighters, who face the most "stressful and dangerous environments when responding to emergencies".

Experts at University of Gloucestershire will provide physical and mental wellbeing checks for workers at Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS).

As part of the scheme, crews will be offered annual and pre-employment fitness assessments.

Professor of sport and exercise technologies Athanassios Bissas said: "We look forward to ensuring they are physically and mentally fit to undertake their vitally important duties."

The sport science and exercises team will also offer firefighters health advice and guidance.

Fitness assessments around stamina, strength and coordination will be carried out.

Chief fire officer Mark Preece said he was "delighted" the new support was being offered

Professor Bissas, said firefighters "face the most stressful, demanding and dangerous occupational environments when responding to emergencies on a regular basis".

“Through our expertise and experience within health and exercise, we look forward to ensuring they are physically and mentally fit to undertake their vitally important duties in the most effective ways possible."

The university team, made up of exercise physiologists, nutritionists and psychologists, will also design an educational programme and seminars on issues affecting firefighters’ health beyond active service.

Research and monitoring, including lab testing all key fitness variables, will also provide insights into ongoing occupational stress on firefighters.

Chief fire officer Mark Preece said he was "delighted" that they were working with the university.

“Ensuring our teams maintain their physical and mental wellbeing is important to allow them to carry out their duties to our communities safely and efficiently."