Fire service improving - inspectors

Inspectors praised Hereford and Worcester Fire Service for improvements in some areas

Inspectors have praised Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue for improving its fire prevention work.

The latest report from His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary, Fire and Rescue Services said it was no longer concerned about the way the brigade carried out home inspections.

The service said it was pleased to have been graded "good" or "adequate" in all 11 inspection areas, after it was told to improve in the previous inspection in 2021.

Chief fire officer Jon Pryce said: "This report truly reflects a high-quality and high-performing fire and rescue service"

Even after the improvement, fire prevention was one of seven areas the inspection judged to be "adequate", compared to four which were "good".

Fire response 'adequate'

The higher grades were for managing performance, promoting diversity, getting staff with the right skills and protecting the public through fire regulation.

"Adequate" areas included responding to fires and making best use of resources.

Inspector Wendy Williams said: "I am pleased with the performance of Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service in keeping people safe and secure from fire and other risks, but it needs to improve in some areas to provide a consistently good service."

Mr Pryce welcomed the findings and said they reflected "significant improvements we have made since the last inspection".