10 October 2009

Employment of Members of Police Forces by Fire and Rescue Authorities

Over recent years the RFU has been posed the question by members and potential Fire Service employees as to why Special Constables and Police Community Support Officers cannot also be employed by local Fire Authorities and work within the Retained Duty System. As an organisation we would align the two emergency services as having the same values as each other with the overarching aim of protect their communities, whereas others stated that there would be a 'conflict of interest' should an individual undertake both roles.

Having spoken to CLG and other interested parties on a number of occasions the RFU is very pleased to announce that after clarification of the Fire & Rescue Services Act 2004 and the Police Act 1996; Special Constables and Police Community Support Officers are not prohibited from joining the RDS or vice versa, provided there is local agreement between the Chief Fire Officer and the Chief Constable.

We believe this change in policy will benefit both Emergency Services in terms of providing a better understanding within both roles whilst also aiding recruitment.

FSC62/2009 - FRS Development Division - Employment of Members of Police Forces by Fire and Rescue Authorities