The Staffordshire Commissioner and Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service have invited the inspectorate to bring forward its next inspection to specifically look at its people-related practices, alongside the usual elements of the inspection regime.
The next inspection of the service was not due until Spring/Summer of 2022, but Staffordshire Commissioner Ben Adams and Chief Fire Officer Becci Bryant, have requested the inspection is brought forward and it will start next month (August). This is so particular attention can be given to certain practices and issues, such as disciplinary; bullying and harassment; and grievance issues; as well as diversity and inclusion.
It follows a small number of concerns raised about the way the service conducts some of its people-related practices.
Staffordshire Commissioner Ben Adams, in his capacity as the Fire and Rescue Authority, felt it would be helpful for Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) to review the matters without delay.
The aim is to ensure the service is promoting a positive and supportive culture to all and is fully poised to meet today’s challenges and those of any future service reform.
It is recognised many of these matters affect services nationally, not just Staffordshire. This work will identify the scale, scope and seriousness of issues, recommending any improvements the service should take.
The inspectors will also look at the effectiveness and efficiency of the service and how well the service looks after its people, as part of the latest inspection and scrutinise how Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service promotes, leads and trains its managers to ensure they have the necessary skills and behaviours to safeguard fairness and diversity when managing their people.
HMICFRS will carry out pre-inspection activity from this week in advance of its full inspection next month (August), before reporting its findings in 2022.
