Local News Update July 16th 2010

Warwickshire Fire Authority will decide on proposals to put forward for public consultation at a meeting on 20 July 2010.

Original proposals inc. the closure of 7 RDS stations in Warwickshire were withdrawn after the original consultation process identified numerous flaws in the proposal. Warks CFO Graeme Smith has put forward 3 options with the recommendation that 'Model A' should be progressed.

OPERATIONAL RESOURCING MODELS

Model A

This operational response model includes the following key features:

• Alcester Fire Station is upgraded to a Wholetime and Retained Fire
  Station with two fire appliances covering the combined areas of Alcester,
  Bidford and Studley.
• Bedworth Fire Station is crewed by a Retained Fire Appliance and a Small
  Fires Unit. The Day Crewed Fire appliance is not required.
• Fenny Compton and Kenilworth Fire Stations remain as retained stations.
• Four Fire Stations (Bidford, Brinklow, Studley and Warwick) are
  decommissioned back into the Council’s Asset Management portfolio.

Model B

This station model differs from Model A as follows:

• Bidford Fire Station and the retained crew remain in place.
• At Alcester Fire Station the retained crew is not required (although the
  wholetime crew remains).
• Three Fire Stations (Brinklow, Studley and Warwick) are decommissioned
  back into the Council’s Asset Management portfolio.

Model C

This station model differs from the Model A as follows:

• Alcester Fire Station remains as a Retained only station as does Bidford
  and Studley.
• The retained fire appliance at Stratford Fire Station is upgraded to a
  wholetime appliance.
• Two Fire Stations (Brinklow and Warwick) are decommissioned back into
  the Council’s Asset Management portfolio.

Models A and B will allow for 36 job losses within the Retained Duty System but create 17 jobs within the Wholetime Duty System

Model C will allow for 27 job losses within the Retained Duty System

Full details of the proposals can be found here.

Latest News Update June 21st 2010

NJC and Employers Circulars issued.

NJC 5/10 - Part-time workers update

EMP 4/10 - Part-time workers update

National News June 15th 2010

RFU Members and readers of the WRFU website may recall the European Working Time Directive that threatened fire cover and Retained fire fighters in the UK some time ago which was successfully challenged by a broad coalition of like minded individuals and organisations. This was against critisism of scarmongering!

Well this matter is back on the agenda.

At the time the RFU was the only fire service representative organisation to bring this matter to the attention of the Retained fire fighters and the public at large.

Let the RFU be the first in bringing this update on this important matter to your attention.
The following question has been raised in the House of Commons following enquiries to RFU HQ.

Fire Services: Working Hours

Damian Collins: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government if he will make it his policy to retain the opt-out of the EU working time directive for retained fire crews; and if he will make a statement.

Robert Neill (Fire Minister): This Government committed in the coalition agreement to limit the application of the working time directive in the United Kingdom. We recognise the essential flexibility that the opt-out brings and will stand firm on its retention.

Losing the opt-out from the averaged 48-hour maximum to the working week set by the EU working time directive could have a serious impact on fire and rescue services. In particular, it would greatly reduce the hours which many on-call Retained Duty System fire-fighters, who provide around 90% of operational cover geographically across the United Kingdom as a whole, could be available for duty because many already work full time for a primary employer.

Atherstone on Stour fire investigation

The Police and the HSE investigations into the circumstances of the deaths of four fire fighters at Atherstone on Stour on 2nd November 2007 are continuing and we have no indication of when they will be completed or findings published. The consequences of these ongoing investigations will continue to have a significant impact on the Fire and Rescue service which will need continuous and careful management. At the same time, the Council faces the challenging task of managing the continuing provision of fire and rescue services, alongside the delivery of a challenging modernisation plan.

Source Warwickshire County Council Audit and Standards Committee – 11 May 2010

Local News April 26th 2010

Deputy Chief Fire Officer £95,475
Assistant Chief Fire Officer £84,266

Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service is striving to make Warwickshire the safest place to live and work, by working with our partners and the citizens of Warwickshire to prevent fires, and avoid injury. We are looking for solutions, before the problem occurs.

We are a small but aspiring Service driving improvement under the leadership of our new Chief Fire Officer, Graeme Smith. You'll join us as a member of our Strategic Leadership Team at a crucial time, when the high performance of Brigade Managers is key to our future. Both posts offer a unique opportunity to influence the direction of a proud and ambitious Service. You'll demonstrate a sound understanding of the role of the Fire & Rescue Service and have the right knowledge, skills and judgement to deliver our improvement agenda.

Closing date: 7 May 2010

Interview dates: 20 & 21 May 2010 Source www.allfirejobs.co.uk

WRFU said "How can these salaries be justified when Warwickshire rate payers will be expected to accept closure of fire stations and a reduction in RDS front line emergency staff"

This congress aims to promote vibrant discussion among speakers and delegates and build a consensus in regard to best practice.

Aims of the conference

To share information and ideas on providing a cost-effective service as a basis for developing strategies which individual fire and rescue services can adopt for themselves.

How to change the culture - intelligence gathering, sharing information and best practice between services.

How to maintain public trust in the wake of budget cuts and build on the unique service identity in the midst of multi-agency engagement.

Learn about the potential and actual impact of budget cuts on frontline services and resultant industrial action.

How to maintain communication and core values in difficult times.

How to integrate performance management into day-to-day working - doing more with less.

Learn more about the role of technology in increasing efficiencies.

Understand the different approaches to cost cutting between metropolitan and rural fire services (oh how ironic).

Contributors include:

*** Chief Fire Officer, Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service*** (Ring any Bells!)

save £50* Earlybird Standard Rates: £325 + VAT £375 + VAT

This Chief Fire Officer is well known to RDS firefighters and rate payers of Warwickshire after advocating to close 7 fire stations and to make 100 Retained fire fighters redundant.

Elephant in the Room?

What's the origin of that phrase.

The expression 'elephant in the room' refers to a situation where something major is going on, it's on everyone's mind and impossible to ignore -- like an elephant in the room. But nobody talks about the ' elephant' because nobody knows what to do about it.

This expression is relevant ; Cuts to the fire service in Warwickshire and the up and comming general election - you have the chance to be the Judge and Jury on May 6th!

Local News April 7th 2010

More arrests follow Warwickshire warehouse fire deaths

Two more men have been arrested in connection with a warehouse fire which claimed the lives of four firefighters.

The firefighters died tackling a blaze at a packing plant at Atherstone-on-Stour, Warwickshire, in 2007.
Two men, aged 49 and 59, from south Warwickshire, were arrested on suspicion of misconduct in a public office.

Source BBC News

We would like to remind all members that we provide a range of membership options which are not limited to On-Call personnel. For example members who migrate to the WDS and remain as On-Call firefighters are able to continue their RFU membership at a modest increase in subscription. And subject to certain criteria, solely WDS personnel can also apply for membership.

Local News Update March 31st 2010

Police quiz dad over Atherstone firefighters deaths

The dad of one of four firefighters killed in a warehouse blaze in Warwickshire was arrested in connection with the deaths, it has emerged.

Local News Update Tuesday 30th March, 2010

Warwickshire’s Deputy Chief Fire Officer moves on to pastures new!

"I am proud to have been a Warwickshire Officer and I will never forget the good friends and colleagues that have served this community with pride and professionalism."

Glen Ranger
Warwickshire’s Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Glen Ranger has been appointed as Deputy Chief Fire Officer for Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service.

Glen has served in Warwickshire since October 2001 progressing through the ranks to become the County’s Deputy Chief in 2009.

Paying tribute to his time in Warwickshire, Glen said: “I am proud to have been a Warwickshire Officer and I will never forget the good friends and colleagues that have served this community with pride and professionalism. To that end, I will continue to provide support and guidance to the Service and those connected with it”.

Glen also said: “The County of Warwickshire is fortunate to be in the capable hands of Graeme Smith, a Chief Fire Officer with a drive and passion second to none”.

Warwickshire’s Chief Fire Officer Graeme Smith said: “Glen has been an exceptional Deputy Chief Fire Officer, and whilst I am sorry to see him leave, I know that the community of Bedfordshire and Luton will benefit from his undoubted talents”.

Portfolio Holder for Community Protection, Richard Hobbs said: “It has been a pleasure to work with Glen. He has helped to drive the service forward through some very difficult times. His dedication to protecting the residents of Warwickshire has been second to none and whilst he will be missed, I wish him the very best in his future career.”

Glen began his career in the fire service in 1989 following military service. His first role was as a Firefighter in Oxfordshire serving in Banbury and the City of Oxford. Following promotion, he then moved to Essex County Fire and Rescue Service, serving the communities of Chelmsford, Canvey Island and Colchester. Shortly after appointment to Area Commander in North Essex he moved to Warwickshire as Head of Operations.

Furthering his career development, Glen has a Masters Degree in Business, and has recently completed the Prime Minister’s Top Management Programme at the National School of Government.

Source: WFRS website

WRFU Comment:

With effiency savings upper most in the thoughts of the Fire Authority and Warwickshire County Councils focus on removing management posts, by not replacing this post the cost savings can be reinvested in to the RDS stations and front line staff.

Local News Update 22nd March 2010

Keeping an eye on WFRS!

Extracts From West Midlands Fire Authority Minutes

West Midlands Fire Authority
Members considered the Authority’s draft response to the proposals set out in Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Services’ (WFRS) Improvement Plan Consultation Document.

On November 30th 2009 West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority Resolved:-

Local News Update March 9th 2010

Warwickshire County Council has allocated £ 22.554.133 to WFRS for 2010/11.

How much does Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service cost the rate payers of Warwickshire.

Employees £17.353.000
Premises £ 0.905.000
Transport £1.108.000
Support Services £1.205.000
Charges for Buildings and Equipment £0.817.000

Total £ 23.092.000

WFRS Income

Specific Government Grants £ 0.150. 000
Other Grants £ 0.132.000
Customer/ Client Grants £ 0.256.000

Total Income £. 0.538.000

Medium Term Cash Allocations to WFRS

2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14

£20.424.000 £ 20.895.00 £21.307.000 £21.737.000

Source: Extracts for WCC Committee Meetings.

Local News Update - March 1st 2010

WCC budget for 2010-11, click the links to view proposals of the three main political parties.

Conservative
Labour
Lib Dems

Why Join the RFU?

If you have any problems at work it makes sense to have someone on your side. A Trade Union provides support and representation for its members on all work related issues. Some workers join a trade union because they believe that a union can:

• agree better working conditions, such as more holidays or improved health and safety
• provide training for new skills
• give legal advice and support
• give general advice and support
• negotiate better pay
• provide representation at Pension appeals
• provide representation at Medical appeals
• give confidential advice service

In addition to our core business we provide;

• FREE £20,000 Accidental Death Insurance (on or off duty anywhere in the world*)
• Access to our 'On-Call' insurance scheme for only £2.52 per month - click here for further information
• Discounts on products and services exclusive to RFU members via the RFU+ website - www.rfuplus.co.uk

We are an organisation which fully understands the strengths of the RDS. Our commitment to the welfare of those employed on this duty system is our top priority and we need to be vigilant to keep RDS issues to the forefront of the national and local agenda as well as being fully supportive of our members when things go wrong.

We believe we are the best option, whether it is through ongoing lobbying on members collective behalf, representing you in disciplinary or grievance processes, or deploying our Legal Team to protect you if you are injured on duty.”

The RFU aims to be proactive on our members’ behalf; a union is not now nor ever has been just simply a safety net. Unions are not just there for when something goes wrong!

If you or your colleagues want to have an alternativegive us a call on 078 522 32 166 or go to www.wrfu.org.uk

Latest News - February 8th 2010

Difficult and Challenging Times Ahead.

WRFU Chair AJJ Morgan attended WCC Shire Hall on 3rd February to represent RFU members and listen to Councillor Alan Farnell presenting a budget consultation to business leaders and trade unions.

Councillor Farnell highlighted the difficult decisions that will need to be made in the short and medium term in meeting an increased demand for services ,delivering a balanced budget and making efficiency savings.

Here is a short resume of the presentation:

A balanced financial position for 2010/11

Medium Term
Short fall in future years,after 2.5%council tax increase and 3% savings.

2011/12 £7.4 million
2012/13 £ 6.0 million
2013/14 £ 5.2 million

WFRS has still to indicate where savings are to be made over the long term and that all proposals for savings in the Fire and Rescue Service are provisional and will be considered as part of the consideration of the fire improvement plan.

WRFU believes WFRS is in denial over adequate funding as the service improvement plan highlighted the fact that RDS has been under valved , under resourced and under funded for far to long and the service has knowingly allowed this to happen over may years.

"In terms of costs per head Warwickshire FRS spends more on its non uniformed staff costs than all other CC fire and rescue service authorities. Not only this , its relative spend is considerably more than double (220%) that of the nearest high spender.
It is also top of the league of all UK fire authorities by an uncomfortable margin." Extract from the Morphew report.

RDS National Survey
(Have your say don't throw it away!)

Oh no not again another survey I hear you say, well this is a unique chance to have your say !

Those of you who have been employed within the RDS for the past 8 years will be only too aware of the often quoted term ‘modernisation’ and how it applies to the FRS.

Many of you will also be aware of the Bain Report, the joint RFU/APU survey and Conference in December 2003 and the ODPM review of the recruitment and retention challenges facing the Retained Duty System in 2004, which resulted in the publication of a report in February 2005. It might be fair to question why following all of these major pieces of work there are still so many challenges facing the RDS?

WRFU cautiously welcomes this initiative to address the long standing RDS shortfall that has been overlooked for many years by WFRS management.

This announcement is ironic as WFRS service made negative comments regarding the availability of RDS crews and appliances in its proposals yet failed to acknowledge in its improvement plan that the service made little or any effort in recruiting personnel within RDS over the last 5 years or demonstrated any positive work undertaken in line with the Governments recommendations contained in the report 'The Fire and Rescue Service Retained Duty System'.

Click here for source.

Redundancy Policy and Provision

As has already been mentioned above the significant savings options will, if agreed in February, place a number of posts at risk.

Over half of the authority’s spending each year is on staffing. Therefore, it is inevitable that any proposals to deliver savings of this level will require, in some areas, a reduction in the number of posts. SDLT have already put in place policies and processes to enable us to get smarter at redeploying people.

We are looking to fill vacancies through redeployment of displaced staff if at all possible – even if this involves extra training. Only if this isn’t possible will jobs be advertised externally. However, it has to be recognised, even with these changes in policy, some redundancies may be necessary,resulting in a need to fund redundancy costs.

Members have already agreed that £7.1 million be set aside from the Insurance Fund for realigning services, or more specifically to fund the up-front costs of redundancy. However, over the medium term this is unlikely to be sufficient unless a way is found to replenish the provision.

WRFU comments:
Its ironic that finance can be found for redundancies rather than investment.
Also with RDS staff under the threat of redundancy will they be given the opportunity for redeployment with in the service or County Council!

RDS staff provide the most cost effective service and with meduiam to long term budget pressures, if sense prevails then the Retained Duty System will become a more attractive option in providing a cost effective emerency service.

A review of Senior Mangement Costs and back office costs staff would make WFRS fitter and stronger rather than attacking a section of the work force that provides a cost effective service.

Warks Demo against Fire Service Cuts

Dear Colleagues

The RFU have joined in a broad coalition of concerned groups which includes residents ,trade unions and other interested stakeholders in campaigning against the cuts to the fire service across Warwickshire.

Representatives from these groups will be attending Warwick Race Course on December 6th 2009 at 1130am to march on Shire Hall demonstrating their opposition to the unprecedented attack on Retained Duty System fire fighters jobs and closure of seven fire stations.

Why not join us and show your support. It would be most welcome to see RDS colleagues, families, friends and neighbours from all stations including those stations and RDS not directly affected by these damaging proposals.

"Help us stop this madness"

If you require more information please contact me on 078 522 32 166 or go to www.wrfu.org.uk

Hope to see you on Sunday.

Best Regards

Anthony JJ Morgan
Warwickshire RFU Chair and RFU Vice President

Local News Update November 26th 2009

WRFU in live Radio Forum Debate

WRFU Chair Anthony JJ Morgan will be taking part in a live radio forum debate on Monday 30th November 2009 on the Tim and Marion Breakfast Show BBC Coventry and Warwickshire.

The broadcast is planned to take place between 8am and 9am and will include questions to the Chief Fire Officer and The Fire Service Portfolio Holder Richard Hobbs from a deputation of residents and other interested stakeholders

"Take time out to listen in".

http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/radio/bbc_radio_coventry_warwickshire

Latest News Update 17th November 2009

As many WRFU members will be aware recent matters have been at the fore front of our minds but the service continues to press ahead with improvements.

In April 2010, the service will be introducing new BA equipment with the RFU fully involved in the consultation process on the introduction of this new equipment

As an update for members the following is planned

Vehicle fit out starts 16th Nov..starting in the north of the county and heading south Completion should be by end of mid December.

• Engineers course on December 12th which includes RDS personnel
• Pilot go live date will be Jan 27th 2010
• Main go live date March 30th 2010 as near as 9am as possible.

Remember where you read it first!

Latest News Update October 26th 2009

A number of members have been seeking an update on recent events and what the RFU is doing.

WRFU Chair Tony Morgan has been travelling extensively around the county offering support to members taking part in local radio and newspaper interviews highlighting the RFUs concerns and the risks these flawed proposals will have on the local communities of Warwickshire.

Tony Morgan said, "RFU members can be assured both myself and the RFU Executive are working hard lobbying members of the public working closely with Warwickshire MPs, Councillor's and other interested stakeholders in fighting these proposals".

WRFU would like to say thank you to members and their relatives who have so far responded to requests for local station information.

This information will be collated with the co-operation of the RFU Executive and experts in FSEC modelling and along side Freedom of Information requests the RFUs consultation response will be focused on all the proposals that affect RFU members and the communities they serve and will not focus on proposals that affect a specfic staff group."

To keep in touch with develoments or you would like a station visit to discuss more go to www.wrfu.org.uk or call 078 522 32 166.

"Save the Warks Seven!"

Local News September 9th 2009

Key Messages from Public Consultation and Engagement Activities

Public Satisfaction Levels and Trends

Fire and Rescue Service

2002 74%
2003 53%
2004 58%
2005 52% - 56.6% *
2006 55.4%
2007 74%
2008 60.65

These results included in the report show the results from all respondents not just those who use the services .
The Atherstone on Stour incident and proposed merger with Hereford and Worcestershire Fire and Rescue Service may have contributed to the rise and slight fall of the satisfaction levels with WFRS.

WFRS are part of the business school project which will investigate consultation methods with the public and ways WFRS can raise its profile with in the community.

* It must be reported that in 2005 the Fire and Rescue Service was split into Prevention Services and Emergency Response Services and that when interpreting the above results the confidence interval is + - 3%.

Local News September 7th 2009

Extracts from WCC Cabinet Reports 10th Sept 2009

The Fire and Rescue Service is forecasting an over spend of £0.303 million. This is because they are continuing to incur costs due to the Atherstone on Stour Incident and the decision to invest in additional training

Atherstone on Stour Estimated Overspend £267,000

Training and Development Overspend £280,000 From a Budget of £ 1,165,000

This overspend relates to the implementation of risk critical Carbonaceous Fire Behaviour Training which was identified in the Services Improvement Plan to be funded from the resulting efficiencies, however the Strategic Management Team agreed the training should be put in place immediately resulting in an overspend.

Fire Capital Grant

2009/10 Allocation £617,799
2010/11 Allocation £720,680

WFRS has received a grant from the Fire and Rescue Directorate of Communities (CLG) as part of the CSR07 settlement for Fire and Rescue Services in England of £34.million in 2009 and £44 million in 2010/11 .

Warwickshires allocation equates to £1.338 million over two years.
The grant is intented to assist FRAs in their estates improvements but as this is a non ring fenced grant FRAs are free to decide how the funds are spent.

WFRS is therefore asking approval to have the grant retained specifically for their capital programme. The service plans to put aside £1,088.479 of the grant funding pending the outcome of the consultation regarding the improvement plan.

This will contribute to the funding of any resulting projects which members may agree to implement that might require capital expenditure.

The service will include further details of such planned expenditure in their future reports to council on the improvement plan.

The service intends to use a smaller portion of the 2009/10 allocation on the implementation of mobile data terminals on fire appliances (£300,000) and service HQ office reorganisation (£50,000).

WRFU believes these extracts offer an insight to the future provision of emergency response to the communities of Warwickshire!!

To: All RFU Members

Pension Update

I am writing to provide you with an update on the Preston and Matthews claims, which were brought in the early 1990’s and in 2000/2001 respectively, seeking retrospective access to the Firemens Pension scheme and to equal terms and conditions with wholetime fire fighters.

As you know, these claims have been outstanding for some considerable time now and we appreciate that frustration is growing as to the lack of progress being made regarding compensation. This is particularly so when the claims were held to be successful by the Employment Tribunal last year.

We would wish to reassure you that, contrary to some recent suggestions made by others, we are fighting the cause of our members on these important issues and were, in fact, the first Union to do so. Please, therefore, do not think that the delay is as a result of any inaction on our part or that we are not representing your interests in relation to these claims.

We share our member’s frustration, but the issues involved in these claims are complex, as is the method of calculating retrospective access to a pension scheme. Accordingly, it is perhaps not surprising that it is taking some time for settlement discussions to progress towards a satisfactory conclusion.

Unfortunately, the position remains that settlement discussions remain ongoing between the interested parties, and being realistic a conclusion is not immediately foreseeable. We shall continue to press for a resolution, though, and will provide you with further information as soon as we are able to do so.

In the meantime, should you have any concerns regarding these claims, or consider that you might have a valid claim yourself, please do not hesitate to contact your local RFU representative.

Yours sincerely

John Barton
National General Secretary

FEAR OF A 60% CUT IN FIRE APPLIANCES
FEARS that Stratford-upon-Avon, Alcester, Bidford-on-Avon and Studley will have fire and rescue cover slashed from five to two appliances were voiced today (Monday).

According to rumours circulating in fire service circles, both Bidford and Studley fire stations will be closed and the area will be left with one appliance in Stratford-where currently there are two-and one in Alcester.

The issue is on the agenda for discussion in confidential session at this Thursday's meeting of the ruling cabinet of Warwickshire County Council. According to sources, two county councillors have already been reported to the Standards Board for England for discussing the matter with firefighters in advance of it officially being made public.

Extract taken from Stratford Herald

Local News July 13th 2009

Over the last few weeks on behalf of local RFU officials have been busy attending consultation meetings with WFRS management and has a growing reputation as a key employee representative stakeholder whose only focus is on matters that relate to firefighters on the Retained Duty System .

Listed below is a brief overview and update on what modernisation projects are proposed.

Gartan Project
Following an Operational Assurance assessment it was deemed that WFRS required a better more efficient Retained availability system.

WFRS has decided to go with Gartan and the aim is to develop an implementation Group to facilitate the roll out of Gartan and to be fully functional as an availability and payroll system for the retained and eventually incorporate Day Crewing and Officer rotas.

Copies of the minutes and papers are available to RFU members on request and if you have any points to make please contact us on www.wrfu.org .uk

RPE Project
A new project is underway called RPE (Respiratory Protective Equipment) which is to replace WFRS BA sets and support systems by April 2010.

The first meeting which was attended by WRFU took place on 30th June 2009 at 39 Henley.

From initial details this implementation project will be an important and positive step forward to ensuring RDS have the most up to date equipment and training.

Copies of the minutes and papers are available to RFU members on request and if you have any points to make please contact us on at www.wrfu.org.uk

Social Networking Sites (Warning!!)
There is growing interest in the use of social networking sites such as Facebook and twitter. A simple way to keep in touch with your circle of friends and visited by over 17 million people each month.

However there are pitfalls which you need to be aware of as some of our members recently discovered.

Few people realise that by posting pictures, opinions and revelations on a web site could possibly land them in hot water with their employers, there is always a risk that someone could be offended.

In a fire and rescue service context, any picture which links the user to their employing FRS and if accompanied by other pictures or comments which could be interpreted as sexist, racist, crude or similar can result in disciplinary investigation and action being taken.

Also be aware that someone who knows you, perhaps with an "axe to grind" or an "old score to settle" could visit your site, seize the opportunity and report you to the service with potentially serious consequences especially if you use a service PC to access the site.

WANT TO REPRESENT THE RFU AND HELP TO SHAPE THE FUTURE OF RDS IN WARWICKSHIRE?
WRFU welcomes existing members who would like to take an active part in the consultation process by attending meetings with WFRS Management.

If you would be interested in representing the RFU and shaping the RDS for the future contact AJJ Morgan WRFU Chair on 07852 232166 for more details.

Local News June 18th 2009

RFU Members will be aware that the Audit Commission are presently assessing WFRS as part of the Operational Assessment (OPA) which looks how effectively the Fire Authority is working operationally and with its partners to plan and deliver services for the people of Warwickshire.

Between June 22nd and 25th external assessors will use the attached self assessment to base its final report on how well WFRS is performing.

RFU Members are urged to take time to read through this assessment it indicates that the role of RDS is to be re-defined?

Does this reflect what the WFRS is doing or is it different at the sharp end!

What would you do to improve things?

If you have any comments or suggestions then let us know at www.wrfu.org.uk or call 078 522 32 166.

Warks FRS Self Assessment document is available here (8mb PowerPoint)

Local News Update June 4th 2009

Retained Duty System Availability Management System coming to a station near you!

Cast your mind back to Operational Assessment of Service Delivery in 2006 !
Don't remember that far back,then lets remind you ?

The assessment identified a need to review RDS availability forecasting which would allow effective monitoring and management of RDS resources.

In Oct 2008 WRFU was invited to take part in a project group to look at bespoke availability systems.

A subsequent report was submitted to the WFRS Senior Management team with options for implementation.

WFRS Strategic Management Team have now given approval to proceed in the procurement of the Gartans RDS availability management system in partnership with regional Fire and Rescue Services

With this approval now being given a project group in which WRFU is included is being established.
The aim of this group is

• Establish draft protocols an terms of use of the Gartan system by RDS staff
• Establish a process for monitoring and reviewing the systems use
• Identify project risks and control measures required
• Draft an OTI to provide guidancve and rules of use of the system
• Plan and manage an implementation pilot project at Brinklow fire station
• Under take post pilot review
• Ensure all protocols/ terms of use and OTI are finalised and deployed to support the rool out of the Gartan system to all RDS/Day-crewed stations

To keep in touch with future developments visit www.wrfu.org.uk

Local Latest News June 1st 2009

WRFU membership increase

WRFU is delighted to welcome its newest members to the Retained Fire fighters Union in Warwickshire.

WRFU Chair AJJ Morgan said,

"On behalf of the WRFU committee I would like to welcome our RDS colleages to the Retained Fire fighters Union" .

"This increase in our membership clearly demonstrates the committment of the WRFU committee and local station representatives in developing our membership base and representing RDS personnel, this is against the continued discrimination that still proliferates against the RFU with in Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service"

Take a look at why our new colleagues have taken the decision to join us :

If you have any problems at work it makes sense to have someone on your side. A Trade Union provides support and representation for its members on all work related issues. Some workers join a trade union because they believe that a union can:

• agree better working conditions, such as more holidays or improved health and safety
• provide training for new skills
• give legal advice and support
• give general advice and support
• negotiate better pay
• provide representation at Pension appeals
• provide representation at Medical appeals
• give confidential advice service

In addition to our core business we provide;

FREE £20,000 Accidental Death Insurance (on or off duty anywhere in the world*)
Access to our 'On-Call' insurance scheme for only £2.52 per month
Discounts on products and services exclusive to RFU members via the RFU+ website - www.rfuplus.co.uk

We are an organisation which fully understands the strengths of the RDS. Our commitment to the welfare of those employed on this duty system is our top priority and we need to be vigilant to keep RDS issues to the forefront of the national and local agenda as well as being fully supportive of our members when things go wrong.

We believe we are the best option, whether it is through ongoing lobbying on members collective behalf, representing you in disciplinary or grievance processes, or deploying our Legal Team to protect you if you are injured on duty.”

The RFU aims to be proactive on our members’ behalf; a union is not now nor ever has been just simply a safety net. Unions are not just there for when something goes wrong!

RFU offering RDS an alternative !

Latest Local News May 11th 2009

INTERIM CHIEF FIRE OFFICER PROPOSES CHANGES IN WORKING PRACTICES

Presentation by Paul Fuller, Interim County Fire Officer on the Audit Commission’s Community Safety report “Rising to the Challenge” (Improving Fire Services Efficiency).

ICFO Paul Fuller, with the aid of a power point presentation highlighted the recommendations of the Audit Commission’s report into efficiency and performance in England’s Fire Service. He referred to the issues facing Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service (WFRS) in meeting both the County Council and national efficiency and performance targets. He highlighted the targets and performance relating to –

1. reducing the number of accidental fires in the home – WRFS’s performance was in the upper quartile compared to other counties and above mid-target range nationally;
2. home fire safety checks (HFSC) – WFRS was looking to devote more resources to this target particularly in high, rather than low risk, areas;
3. reducing deliberate vehicle fires – nationally WRFS was mid-range in its performance and more resources would be devoted to addressing this issue;
4. public satisfaction – there had been a 20% improvement in this target but there was more work to do which might relate to marketing rather than performance;
5. CPA rating for 2005 was good – but this would have no relevance to the Comprehensive Area Assessment that WRFS would be subjected to in the coming year;
6. the efficiency challenge: making the best use of resources -there was a huge amount of work to do in relation to use of staff and resources in order to improve efficiency savings;
7. equality and diversity – in all but one fire service nationally minority and ethnic groups were under represented amongst operational staff and less than 10% of operational staff were women. In this respect WFRS was performing within the upper quartile for county fire and rescue services;
8. sickness performance – sickness absence was relatively high nationally.

Within WFRS there was scope for improvement.

In conclusion ICFO Fuller said that his aim was to –

1. increase smoke detector ownership 10-fold year on year;
2. aggressively reduce false alarm calls
3. double operational hot fire and Integrated Control Service (ICS) training –
   annual training for all personnel
4. deploy Small Fire Units and Community Fire Safety (CFS) vehicles in lieu of major pumping appliances;
5. deploy Road Traffic Collision (RTC) response units in lieu of major pumping
   appliances
6. enhance flooding response –equipment and training
7. apply working patterns/duty systems to enable flexible crewing that met the demands on the service
8. assess future resource requirements
9. reduce sickness absence and enhance fitness and health activity

The Chair thanked ICFO Fuller for his presentation and welcomed a further report setting out options for the future of the Service which he said he hoped would not lead to a diminution of the service.

WRFU welcomes you views, are these proposals a threat or an opportunity? lets us know.

Latest Local News May 8th 2009

Four arrested over warehouse fire

Four people have been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life after a warehouse fire in which four firefighters died.

The site programme will involve staff from the Service ,County Council, Elected members and Partner Agencies.

WRFU may be asked to take part in the interviews and focus groups are you interested in taking part?

WRFU Chair AJJ Morgan, said,

"I understand time is a valuable commodity and RFU members constantly juggle between family responsibilities, primary job role and the constant pressure of maintaining availability, but I would encourage any member who would like to take the opportunity to influence change to call 078 522 32 166 or if you would just like to comment on the above subjects please send them to anthony. morgan@rfuonline.co.uk by June 1st 2009".

2nd April, 2009 Latest Local News Update

Working time directive could seriously harm retained duty system!

Firefighters need to be able to opt out of the 48-hour working time directive if the present retained duty system is to remain in place. Retained firefighters are on call for up to 80 hours per week and usually have a day job as well. Some are on call while at work and some are on call after they finish work.

Councillor Richard Hobbs (left), Warwickshire County Council’s Portfolio Holder for Community Protection
Working time directive could seriously harm retained duty system!

Councillor Richard Hobbs, Warwickshire County Council’s Portfolio Holder for Community Protection has joined the debate on the 48-hour working time directive.

Cllr Hobbs is speaking out after a vote by European Parliament, to end Britain’s opt out of the 48-hour maximum working week. The change in working time directive could mean that thousands of hours worked by retained firefighters could be lost, leaving Warwickshire short of retained duty cover.

Cllr Hobbs said:
“Firefighters need to be able to opt out of the 48-hour working time directive if the present retained duty system is to remain in place. Retained firefighters are on call for up to 80 hours per week and usually have a day job as well. Some are on call while at work and some are on call after they finish work.

“If the new directive is approved, there will be no choice for retained firefighters, they will have to choose one job other the other, which will take away their right to give something back to the community they live in.”

Cllr Richard Hobbs is a member of the LGA Fire Service Management Committee. He will be meeting the Fire Service Minister, Sadiq khan on Thursday 2 April 2009.

Please note you do not have to be a firefighter to sign the petition!

We have been accused of ‘scaremongering’ by the TUC and some political figures citing that not all RDS staff work in excess of 48hrs with both jobs combined and referring to an exclusion for Civil Protection Services within the Working Time Directive. To counter these claims we state that not every Retained Firefighter would be effected by the removal of the opt-out, but every single person who is sacked is one too many, especially when we already have recruitment and retention issues within the service.

Guidance from the Health & Safety Executive and European court decisions say that employers should not depend on derogation or exemptions under the ‘Civil Protection’ provisions (Section 18 (2) (A) of the 1998 Regulations) as anything other than a very restricted and limited variation of working hours. The exclusion will operate in circumstances where an unforeseen event occurs which by its nature cannot be planned for. Therefore it is doubtful that the FRS could rely on pre planned RDS cover as being within this exclusion. In any event not all fire and rescue activity would be excluded from the provisions of the Regulations (for example training, exercises and importantly community safety).

The problem also extends to Whole time personnel who either have secondary employment outside of the Fire Service or who are Whole time/Retained. Under the current proposal both secondary roles would have to cease to ensure the 48 hr limit was maintained. In addition Officers employed on the flexi duty system would be similarly affected.

National News Update February 19th 2009

Join the ranks of disatisfied RDS personnel who see the removal of working time directive OPT OUT as a threat to Retained Fire Service jobs in the UK, local communities and individual rights. (click here).

WRFU Chair AJJ Morgan said "Along with a growing number of RFU members I would urge all WRFU web site readers to sign this petition, this decision places the future of the RDS jobs in the UK at risk."

Latest News Update February 9th 2009

RDS Proportional Pay Proposal Response

WRFU Chair AJJ Morgan would like bring to members attention to the official response by Simon Frost Assistant Chief Fire Officer to the proposed proportional pay scheme.

Tony,

Thank you for your email which I assume is a cut & paste of the returns made to you by your members. I've copied the individual points from your email below and added comments where appropriate.

WRFU: I am deeply concerned as to the impact the recent decision by MEPs on Dec 17th 2008 to remove the 48 hrs OPT OUT and the effect this will have on this proposal and the RDS system in Warwickshire".

ACFO: So are we, but it doesn't have an immediate effect on this proposal.

WRFU: "The Grey book states that RDS full time is defined as at least 120 hrs per week which implies they intend them to do more...but without chance to earn the money to reflect their commitment...if they can do it why can't they be rewarded for it.. ".

ACFO: Setting pay rates above 120 hours a week was originally considered - but then discounted because we wouldn't want to encourage anyone to attempt to provide more than this amount of cover.

WRFU: "The day crewing hours are quoted as being calculated over 6 weeks and the RDS is calculated over 13 weeks shouldn't there be parity either way".

ACFO: This isn't about parity. It's just that the day crewing shift pattern runs over a six week cycle. They don't and wouldn't have any choice in the matter, the amount of cover that they must provide is defined in their contracts.

WRFU: "How will the cover actually provided be monitored? If it is by using the station's paper availability record, where RDS employees sign themselves on and off, then there is no way to check that what they have written IS the cover they have given. It will be possible to alter entries at any time during the week, to show oneself as having been available during any period where the pump was not turned out, but was on the run; or any period where the individuals availability would not have brought the pump onto the run.
The system will then be absolutely open to deception, and scrupulous employees may be penalised, whilst the less scrupulous are not".

ACFO: Until we have an electronic recording system in place then cover provided will be monitored as it is now - with paper records. Anyone falsifying these records would be subject to disciplinary procedures which as the breach of discipline would relate to a financial gain could be considered as gross misconduct and subject to summary dismissal.

WRFU: "How will fairness be ensured if a large proportion of a station request a similar reduction (or or increase) in their contracted cover ": For example, I am aware that several staff at my station have already requested to reduce their cover to 40 hours per week, and have been refused. If they all now reapply, they cannot all be given the reduction unless we are then allowed to increase our establishment; but how will fairness be ensured in deciding who does and who does not get the hours they have asked for?"

ACFO: Increases in establishment will be permitted but obviously take some time to put into effect. In the meantime, consideration of requests will be managed locally by Station Managers who in the case of the example given clearly could not approve a 'large proportion' of staff wanting to reduce to 40 hours.

WRFU: "What will happen to an employee who has requested reduced hours but had this request refused, who then fails to meet their contracted hours over the 13 weeks?"

ACFO: It doesn't seem to me that this is likely to be a regular occurrence but as is the case now, anyone not meeting their contracted hours could potentially be dismissed.

WRFU: "In principle, I like the idea that those who give more cover can receive more pay; however, I am not sure that many of those who regularly give well over their contracted 80 hours would wish to become contractually obliged to provide the extra".

ACFO: Their choice.

WRFU: "As I read it, it seems that WM's will get payed for 120 hrs regardless, does this mean that they will still get paid for 120 hrs if they do less".

ACFO: Yes - exactly as is the case now.

Local News Update February 7th 2009

RDS Proportional Pay Consultation Document

WRFU would like to say thank all members who contributed to the consulation document on RDS proportional pay.

Holiday Pay Update

WRFU is presently collating information received from RFU members on this matter

Further consultation with RFU employment advisers are planned.

Removal of the UK Opt-Out could see the RDS depleted across the UK with the alternatives being either no local fire cover (increased response times from locations further afield) or increases in Wholetime establishments at huge cost to the tax payer at a time when there is great pressure on personal finances.

This vote essentially means that the European MEP's and the European Council have disagreed on the future of the opt out and, a conciliation body will now have to try and resolve the dispute. We will do everything we can to influence those with the power to protect the right of individual choice on this matter.

So what's WRFU doing locally?

WRFU will be taking the lead and lobbying West Midlands MEPs to maintain the individuals right to work.

Keep a look out for updates.

Meeting date 26/02/2009

FiReControl Business Case Part 2 - Draft for Consultation [To inform members of the key points in the FiReControl Business Case Part 2 produced by the Department of Communities and Local Government and the WFRS response to them].

Fire and Rescue Operational Assessment - Toolkit and Guidance Consultation [To inform members of the proposed Fire and Rescue Operational Assessment toolkit and guidance as developed by the Chief Fire and Rescue Adviser's unit, and WFRS's response to the consultation].

Meeting date 19/03/2009

Draft Integrated Risk Management Plan (IRMP) Action Plan 2009-10 [This report sets out the draft IRMP action plan 2009-10 for the Community Protection Directorate following consultation in accordance with guidelines issued by the department for Communities and Local Government (CLG)].

RFU Members Reminder

Following an injury to a fellow RFU colleague whilst attending an incident, RFU members are recommended to ensure that details of any near miss or accident is reported to your line manager in the first instance and the WRFU Health and Safety Representative Dexter Plumridge at Shipston is contacted as soon as possible after the event to ensure the appropriate paper work is completed and submitted to RFU HQ.

Local News Update 5th January 2009

WRFU committee would like to wish all Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service RFU members a Happy New Year.

RDS Annual Leave Pay Update

Following WRFUs exclusive intervention to bringing this issue to the attention of HR.
WRFU can once again exclusively reveal that this matter is presently being reviewed by WFRS legal representatives.

WRFU will keep members up to date with developments and any consultations with RFU HQ employment advisers .

RFU has recieved comments on why are we not developing working partnerships on issues like these.

Following an approach suggesting co operation the silence has been deafening to say the least.
Disappointing but not unexpected.

Thereby until a supportive response demonstrating willingness to respect difference in the work place and support a partnership approach WRFU will continue to represent its members and challenge discrimination that fails to promote a more representative work force.

The intention is to recover the overpayments from January - June 2009 WRFU is advised that this is in line with legal advice (whatever the period of time the overpayment has been made then recovery of this needs to be at least the same timescale or longer).

WFRU has made strong represenation on behalf of its members and have recieved assurance that the the error by the Programming Team has l been corrected and will not reoccur.

"It is disappointing that this error has occurred.

Given past failures in relation to RDS salary payments and more recent the RDS holiday pay issue this further compounds the misgivings RFU members already have with regard to the way they are remunerated !"

Local News Update 14th November 2008

Details from of the Community Protection Directorate Report Card 2008-09 2nd Quarter Period April 08 to Sept 08 as reported to the Community Protection Overview and Scrutiny Committee on November 18th 2008.

52% of staff have indicated there statisfaction that the County Council is a good employer. The basline is 65% with target of 72%

The summary of remedial action indicates:
'This is a complex measure recording employees perceptions which are influenced by many factors. A more detailed analysis of the reasons underlying the current satisfaction ratings would need to be undertaken to enbale remedial actions to be successful'.

38% staff satisfaction that apprasials were of benefit.

The summary of remedial action indicates:
'The Directorates Training and Development Centre continues to provide training to managers with the aim of equiping them with the skills necessary to make appraisals a beneficial and meaningful process for appraisees'.

WFRU would suggest that the apprasial system should be reviewed to be more specific to RDS as the present process has little or no relevance to this unique staff group.

53% of staff are receiving an apprasial (Directorates Only)

The summary of remedial action indicates:
'With data recording the completion of appraisals now starting to come through from the HR Service Centre, managers and heads of departments with low rates of completion are being contacted to discuss the completion rates and their proposals to meet the target figure, which is 95%.'

Nugget
Is the WFRS Training and Development Centre value for money?

The Community Protection Overview and Scrutiny Committee will be time tabling a discussion in the future following items discussed at the meeting in May 08.

October 27th Local News Update - Pause For Thought

IS A FIRE FIGHTER A FIRE FIGHTER? YOU DECIDE!

Western Morning News Article.

22nd October Local News Update

Commemorative Area

Members of Warwickshire County Council will be meeting to approve a permanent commemorative area at Bancroft Gardens in Stratford Upon Avon to our colleagues who lost their lives.

RDS Holiday Pay

Members who have recently received correspondence regarding RDS Holiday can be assured that the WRFU committee will be consulting with RFU employment advisers to ensure that members are not disadvantaged by in efficient HR procedures.

Emergency Action (Pension Fund)

Agenda Item 3 Report to (WCC Pension and Investment Board ) October 20th 2008
The board to agree any emergency action considered necessary in the interest of the fund.

Would this have any thing to do with investments in a failed banking insistution !!

News Update 5th October 2008

"RDS Crew Managers I see no RDS Crew Managers" !

Whats your view on a service delivery order stating that RDS appliances that do not have a crew manager will be deemed "off the run" and not available to the rate payers of Warwickshire !

WRFU is unaware as to the reasoning for this policy but it fails to demostrate that a full impact assessment has taken place and the affects it will have on RDS and emergency fire cover in Warwickshire.

WRFU will be making representation to the service to seek details behind this immoderate policy and will keep members updated.

WRFU - The Solution Not The Problem

News Update 1st October 2008

Little Nugget

Guess how much of your money the Community Protection Directorate spend on consultants in 2007-08 / £31,000

The forecast costs on using consultants for 2008/09 will rise to £69,000.

The reason for the increase according to the Strategic Director of Resources report is that " a rise in spending on consultants is forecast through increased use for the provision of professional services"

Taken from the Resources Performance and Development Overview and Security Committee Minutes Sept 08.

WRFU - The Solution Not The Problem

Local News Update 16th September 2008

Joint Service Review with Hereford and Worcestershire Fire and Rescue Service

Member colleagues will be aware that WRFU has been the only representative organisation in Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service that has been closely following and reporting on developments regard the closer working with Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service.

On September 12th 2008, the Strategic Director of Community Protection and County Fire Officer announced that the Joint Review Group set up to examin the potential for closer working or combination will be making recommendations to both the WCC Cabinet and Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Authority subject to a full business case by both fire authorities to initiate a period of structural collaboration, leading towards full combination in 2010.

In light of the recommendation a Joint Project Board is proposed consisting of both Chief Officers to develop a single business case which will provide adequate information for each fire authority to make informed judgements on the benefits and disadvantages and a time scale for any potential structural
collaboration and /or combination. The business case will be brought to both fire authorities in December 2008.

According to the Hereford and Worcester Fire Authority Service Performance Plan 2008/09, HWFRS will be required to make 1.5% savings for the next three years up to 2011 total £1.5 million.
This follows savings of 8% compared to the 5% they were required to save!

WRFU will be keeping a watching brief on developments.

WRFU - The Solution Not The Problem

Update 6th September 2008

WFRS and H&WFS News !

On September 22nd 2008, Warwickshire County Council Cabinet will be meeting to consider a review of fire service provision in Warwickshire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire, with a view to pursuing partnership arrangements with local authorities in Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

Community Protection Spending Costs

Did you know the Community Protection Directorate original gross budget for 2007/2008 is £28,971 million.

Latest Approved Budget for 2007/2008 is £24.870 million

Actual spending is £24.330 million

Actual under spend of £0.540 million

The under spend for the Community Protection Directorate of £0.540 million is after incurring expenditure relating to the Atherstone on Stour incident £0.437 million. There has been savings in staff turnover and underspend on grant funded projects. In addition payments from the pensions compensation scheme have been funded from the fire pensions reserve.

Little Nugget

Did you know that the previous notional estimate to replace the boiler at Coleshill Fire Station was £112.000. Following a site survey this cost increased by 26.8 % to £142.000.

Just to give readers an idea what the word notional means: it means , speculative, imaginary or unreal. Is this how they spend your money !!

Remember where you read it first !

WRFU part of the solution, not the problem.

Update 24th August 2008

Once again WRFU has to report the removal of RDS fire appliances from Retained stations to provide cover on Wholetime stations due to inadequate transport management polices.

This is quite ironic when an RDS recruitment campaign is in full swing to reduce the present shortfall in RDS staff but there wont be any appliances to use!!

Lets remind ourselves, in 2007, an RDS appliance located in the north of the county spent over 700hrs away from station due to defiences in transport policies. Yes that equates to over a month where the rate payers whom after all pay for the service are being denied fire cover.

May be this one area that could be addresed by the council, as the CPA Inspection Plan Audit 2008-09 Areas for Improvement in Councils Performance states "that the council should adddress the changes needed to continue to improve the Fire and Rescue Service".

21 August 2008 Update

West Midlands Regional Control Room

The new regional control room is progressing and it has been reported that the project is on target to be operational in Oct 2009 with Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service being the first to migrate to the centre.

Following on from the Draft WMRMB annual report 2007/08 decisions on human resources matters will need to be taken and that professional advice would need to be taken on any major decisions on migrating to the RCC.

Members can find out more details on meetings ,minutes and reports on matters that will affect you and your colleagues on www.wmrmb.co,uk

ASFIT

No its not rude or a new biscuit snack ! , this is an abbreviation for Anti Social Fire Intervention Team.

This is a pilot initiative being proposed by Mandy Smedley Community Fire Safety Manager to WFRS Senior Management for a team consisting of 2 fire fighters and a PCSO responding to calls to small fires driving an off road vehicle with capability to extinguish small fire calls in the Nuneaton and Bedworth area between September and November 2008 .

Want to know more please contact Anthony JJ Morgan on 078 522 32 166

Update 3rd August 2008

WFRS and HWFRS Review
To ensure WFRS staff are kept informed on the progress of the review, a Staff Focus Group is being proposed with WFRS requesting 4 representatives from the RDS to lead at joint briefing sessions for functional areas they represent. WFRU will ensure members are kept fully informed of the facts and not the fiction.

Warwickshire RFU Health and Safety Representative
WRFU is pleased to advise members that Dexter Plumridge has been duly elected as the RFU Health and Safety representative in Warwickshire.
If you have Health and Safety concerns that can not be resolved by your local station or area manager in the first instance then please contact him at 35 Shipston on Stour.

Help Wanted
If you can spare some time there may be be occassions when a stand in may be required to attend Health and Safety meetings, therefore WRFU is looking for members who would be willing to stand in from time to time.

This opportunity to attend Health and Safety meetings which are planned well in advance provides opportunities to develop personal skills and gain valuable experience in health and safety matters which may be transferable to your primary workplace !

If you are interested in taking part then contact WFRU Chair AJJ Morgan on 078 522 32 166 or contact via anthony.morgan@rfuonline.co.uk

WFRU ensuring we have a voice on Health and Safety Matters that affect our members!

WRFU and The Warwickshire Branch of Fire fighters Charity Work Together
Following the intervention of WRFU in highlighting broken promises and poor support shown to our member and familiy during their time of need (see July update) WRFU is pleased to report that our member will be receiving the assistance they require.

Our thanks go to Barry Jones and the Trustees of the Warwickshire Branch of the fire fighters charity for all their assistance and advice.

For more information go to www.firefighterscharity.org.uk

Remember WRFU the solution not the problem.

Update 28th July 2008

Direction of travel for WFRS, how are they performing?
According to the information contained in the Audit and Inspection letter WFRS is improving adequately.

Warwickshire performance continues to improve adequately in priority areas and its making an effective contribution to communities. It is maintaining a clear commitment to the community safety and its targeting a wider range of initiatives at the young and vulnerable.

This is a result of active engagement, good communications and an increasing understanding of communities.

Overall satisfaction is below average at 55 per cent and performance on key service delivery indicators remains mixed. Performance is improving for malicious calls , false alarms, primary fires and deliberate primary fires, and fire casualties, but is below average for others and some are deteriorating.

The FRA is delivering Value for Money and efficiency gains. There are systems to review and improve VFM but benchmarking is not yet systematic. Further improvements in VFM are limited by the current service delivery system.

Recognising the position during 2007 the council commissioned an independent review into the medium to long term strategy. The review as to address amongst the things " the difficulties the fire and rescue service has in meeting the County Councils budgetary requirements, notably in achievement of a 2.5per cent efficiency saving in annual cost of the service

RFU members are reminded of the costs per head for provision of a fire and rescue service in both Warwickshire and Hereford and Worcester !!

The recommendations from the review were presented to Cabinet in September and a course of action determined. However in reacting sensitively to the tragic events that followed the Council understandably resolved to postpone further actions on the changes needed to the Fire and Rescue Service.

Best Wishes
The WRFU committee wishes a speedy recovery to one of its members and will continue offer our support to the individual and family.

WRFU Chair Anthony JJ Morgan said,

"Our thanks go to Senior Management for their swift action in offering support to the individual and family. Its disappointing the local area management could not deliver the same swift action following promises made to resolve this matter."

6th July 2008

The RFU is lauching a brand new web site which will provide exciting and unique benefits.

The site is being developed in partnership with commerical partners which will be offering benefits to RFU members only .

Want to know more then click on http://www.rfuplus.co.uk/ for more details.

Merger News !!

With approval from WCC Cabinet WFRS can now consult with stakeholders to progress the options.

WRFU looks forward to being part of this consultation procedure and will keep members informed on how this may affect you.

WRFU Reaches Historic Agreement .

WFRU is pleased to announce that WRFU will be represented for the first time on the WFRS Health and Safety Committee.

This follows many weeks of negoiation by the WFRU Chair on the lack of representation by the RFU on this committee.

Chair of WRFU AJJ Morgan said,

"RFU members in Warwickshire can now be assurred of a voice on matters that affect there health and safety in the work place".

WFRS Vacancies update

Following the only representative group in WFRS to complain about this policy a meeting to discuss our concerns has been arranged with the head of recruitment.

Further updates on this matter to follow.

22nd June 2008

Full tIme Vacancies in WFRS ! But not for Warwickshire Retained Fire fighters!!

If you are interested in becoming a full time firefighter then go to http://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/ Here you will find if you are an employee of a local Fire and Rescue Authority or from the military you can apply.

If you are an RDS firefighter who is employed by Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service then you can not apply ?

How can this be so , questions must be asked as to the fairness of this decision and the logic behind it .

Promotion of opportunity for Warwickshire RDS?

RDS staff are already employed by Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service , have the skills and competencies required and could transfer internally at a fraction of the cost!!

With WFRS under pressure to make efficency savings its a no brainer really.

Comments or enquiries from any interested parties outside the fire service always welcome.

17th June 2008

Calling all WRFU Members

Does your primary employment involve driving "in scope" vehicles?

If so you are strongly advised to go to http://www.rfuonline.co.uk/ and fill out an on line survey ASAP.

Responding to more than one turn out a night or even at the wrong time could result in a driver contravening EU regulations 561/2006.

The RFU needs this information in order to lobby the Dept for Transport for a derogation for our service, it is important that we fully understand the scale of the impact that this legislation is currently having on our members and the communities they serve.

13th June 2008

Remember where you read it first !

Hereford and Worcester Joint Service Review Update .

A report from the Strategic Director of Community Protection and County Fire Officer will be submitted to the WCC Cabinet on June 19th 2008 to seek members approval to progress the joint service review with Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service.

Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Authority approached WFRA early this year, seeking to further develop the combination option and this report now addresses how that option could be taken forward.

In addition the Member and Officer Review Group that was established in Oct 2007 is also to be reconvened to consider the options for service improvements and efficiences through closer arrangements.

This group review group will be charged with concluding the review , including any stakeholder consutations required to inform its final outcome, with the view to making recommendations to each Authority in September 2008.

Information can be found at www.warwickshire.gov.uk/web/corporate/pages

8th June 2008

Information from Audit Commission:

Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Authority Performance

Report April 2007.

2006 Direction Of Travel Score Improving Adequately

• Overall Service Assessment Score 2006. 2
• Performance Indicators Score 2006 2
• Operational Assessment of Service Delivery 2
• Financial Standing 3
• Value For Money 2
• Financial Reporting 3
• Financial Management 4
• Internal Control 3

Scoring where by: 4 is the highest - 1 is the lowest

• Retained Duty System costs per 1000 persons in Warwickshire
• 20007/08 Estimate £3,048

• Wholetime Duty System cost per 1000 persons in Warwickshire
• 2007/08 Estimate £14,134

Cost per head of population

• Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service £39.60p
• Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service £37.20p

Information obtained from the Audit Commission Web Site

2nd June 2008 Message from Chair of Warwickshire Retained Firefighters Union

My committment to representing our membership in Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service with information that is in the public domain will continue.

AJJ Morgan Chair of Warwickshire Retained Fire fighters Union and National Vice President

16th May 2008

Merger with Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service is back on the agenda !

A feasibility paper is being collated by WFRS to look into the possibility of merging or closer collaboritive working between Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service and Hererford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service.

Options to deliver a better service are : Status Quo, Expanded Collaboration, Full Combination

A full joint case will be developed and presented to elected members in the autumn should the Full Combination be the preferred option. In the mean time a summary report for WCC Cabinet in June is being prepared to request elected member approval for WFRS to consult on the 3 options.

Views or comments are always welcome!

28th April 2008

WRFU is seeking your help!!!

Presently WFRS has a strategic reserve of 3 fire appliances and its becoming an increasing occurence that WFRS is removing RDS appliances from RDS stations to fill the shortfall of applances at Whole time / Shift stations when three machines are defective due to mechanical failure.

As an example at Bedworth during 2007, the RDS appliance was removed to other stations for over 700hrs, this equates to just over one month !!

WFRU would like to know if this has happened at your station and what effect it is having on you, your colleagues and your local community ?

Contact WRFU at anthony.morgan@rfuonline.co.uk

21st April 2008

As the investigation to the Atherstone fire continues, WFRS has identified a significant increase in work load. William Brown is seeking a temporary increase in staff to address the short fall required.

Mr Brown is recommending

• 3 Officers to a critical Incident Investigation Team
• 2 officers to the Service Delivery Team
• 2 Officers to support the County Fire Officer and County Legal Team
• 1 Officer to provide direct staff support to the County Fire Officer
• The costs are as follows ( 4 posts ACFO and 3 x AM) = £50,000
• Critical Incident Investigation Team (3 Officers) = £160,000
• CFO Staff ( 1 Officer ) £40,000
• Internal Legal Support Team ( 2 Officers)=£125,000
• Service Delivery Support Officers ( 2 Officers ) = £120,000
• Community Fire Safety =£50,000

  Total £545,000
  

7th April 2008

Community Protection Budget 2008/09

WCC has approved a budget of £24.699 million for the Community Protection Directorate. This represents an increase of £624,000.

The fire and rescue budget for 2008/09 has been funded for inflation only with no efficency savings required. However, it is important to highlight that there may be additional funding requirements during 2008/ 09 as events following the Atherstone Fire continue to unfold.

The report from William Brown goes on to say that aditional requirement is for additional capacity within the service. A separate paper would be submitted on this subject.

Remember where you read it first.

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