Warwickshire Fire Service: Serious concerns over performance

A fire engine outside Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service Headquarters, Leamington Spa

An inspector has "serious concerns" about Warwickshire Fire Service and said she did not underestimate how much improvement was needed.

Wendy Williams highlighted fire regulation issues, including a lack of checks on high-risk buildings.

Concerns were also raised over the service's prevention of fire risk.

Chief fire officer Ben Brook said the service was committed to ongoing improvement and had a "robust plan of action in place".

Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service (WFRS) required improvement in seven out of 11 areas and was rated adequate in four areas, including its response to fires and emergencies and major incidents.

"In particular I have serious concerns about how effective it is at protecting the public through the regulation of fire safety," said Ms Williams, of His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS).

She added in her report she was "disappointed" some high-risk residential buildings had not been inspected, despite being highlighted as a cause for concern in a previous inspection during 2020/21.

"The service still needs to put in place a suitable risk management system," she added.

In addition, the inspectorate found IT systems needed to be more effective and the workforce more productive.

Some progress had been made in "most areas", including the service's approach to equality and diversity, with "positive practice" in leadership development, HMICFRS said.

In response, WFRS said it welcomed constructive feedback to help it provide the best possible community service.

"It was good to see the inspection note progress in the areas of community risk management and in our approach to equality and diversity, in response to the previous inspection," said Mr Brook.

"While there is still more to do, we have a robust plan of action in place which is already making significant inroads into improving the services we provide."

Andy Crump, portfolio holder for fire and community safety at Warwickshire County Council, said he was confident the service had the "right plans in place moving forwards."

Ms Williams said she would continue to monitor progress.