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Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service recognised for major improvements by independent inspectors

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Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS) has welcomed a new inspection report that recognises significant improvements across the service and highlights the progress made in recent years.

The report, published by His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS), found that GFRS is improving in a number of important areas, including understanding local risks, protecting people through fire safety work, supporting and developing staff, and making the best use of resources.

Inspectors rated the service as Good in five areas and recognised two examples of innovative practice.

The report also found that many recommendations from previous inspections have now been successfully addressed, reflecting the work that has taken place across the service to strengthen performance and deliver better outcomes for communities.

Among the areas where inspectors recognised improvement were:

  • understanding and managing risks across Gloucestershire
  • helping businesses and organisations meet fire safety requirements
  • making the best use of public money and resources
  • supporting staff through training and development
  • promoting fairness, inclusion and diversity
  • strengthening leadership, planning and decision-making

Temporary Chief Fire Officer Nathaniel Hooton said: "This report shows how far Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service has come and recognises the hard work and commitment of our firefighters, support staff and volunteers.

"I would also like to thank former Chief Fire Officer Mark Preece, whose leadership helped drive many of the improvements highlighted in this report.

"While we're pleased with the progress that has been made, we know there is more to do. We will continue building on these improvements so that we provide the best possible service for the people of Gloucestershire."

Cabinet Member for Public Health, Communities and Fire, Cllr Paul Hodgkinson, said: "This is a very positive report for Gloucestershire and for everyone who works in our fire and rescue service.

"It's encouraging to see independent inspectors recognise the improvements that have been made and the commitment staff have shown to making the organisation stronger.

"Most importantly, this work is helping us deliver a better service that keeps people safe and supports communities across Gloucestershire."

While the report recognises significant progress, it also identifies areas where further improvements can be made. The service will continue to build these actions into its improvement plans as it works to provide the best possible service for residents, businesses and communities.

The full report is available on the HMICFRS website.

  • To see videos on the inspection report, go to: 

HMICFRS inspection recognises significant progress across GFRS

HMICFRS inspection recognises significant progress at Gloucestershire Fire & Rescue Service