Fire Service Report Uncovers ‘Serious Concerns’ Regarding Management and Workplace Culture

An inspection has identified “serious concerns” regarding the management of resources and risk by Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS), alongside observations of bullying and misogyny occurring on certain shifts. A report issued by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) found SFRS’s performance lacking in 10 out of 11 assessed categories. The most significant criticism pertained to its resource utilization, specifically noting that its corporate risk register was “ineffectively managed”. The fire service stated its acceptance of the findings and recognized the necessity for improvements. The preceding report from 2021, which assigned overall ratings across three categories—effectiveness, efficiency, and people—had evaluated the service as “good” in each. Andy Cooke, His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Fire and Rescue Services, commented, “We were disappointed to see that the service hasn’t made the progress we expected since our 2021 inspection despite having a good basis to build on.” He added, “Many areas have deteriorated, particularly in relation to efficiency and the service’s people.” The report indicated that the service’s financial plan for the medium term relied on sound funding and cost projections, and that a balanced budget had been established for 2024-25. Nevertheless, HMICFRS reported identifying inadequate processes, controls, and internal governance structures for managing strategic risks. Appropriate controls were absent for various risks, including the security and resilience of its IT network. The inspectorate further stated: “Worryingly, during our inspection we identified that there had been a potential data breach with reports of a loss of medical records by an occupational health provider.” Furthermore, the report noted that financial controls required enhancement. HMICFRS reported that during the inspection, SFRS chief fire officer Simon Hardiman and former assistant chief fire officer Adam Matthews were absent from work due to illness. Both individuals were undergoing a misconduct investigation stemming from accusations of inappropriate WhatsApp messages concerning female colleagues. Mr Hardiman received a written warning and was permitted to resume his duties. Mr Matthews tendered his resignation in September. These occurrences, according to the report, generated considerable uncertainty; however, staff expressed positive sentiments regarding the discussions and wellbeing support offered by the service. While the report observed that the majority of staff upheld the service’s values, it also highlighted the absence of a robust culture of challenge. The report conveyed: “We were disappointed to hear of instances of poor culture on some shifts, as well as misogyny and bullying.” It continued: “The service has put in place a confidential reporting line called Say So, but we found that staff aren’t confident to use it.” The inspection determined that SFRS possessed a “thorough” community risk management plan. It noted that the service regularly gathered and updated data concerning individuals, locations, and threats posing the highest risk. The report recalled: “In our 2021 inspection, we identified as an area for improvement that: ‘The service should make sure its firefighters and fire control staff have good access to relevant and up-to-date risk information,'”. It added: “We were pleased to see that the service has addressed this.” In response to the report, Mr Hardiman stated: “This has been a challenging year for the service, however it is important we take all opportunities to learn and make positive changes.” He continued: “I am pleased to see the report highlighted our readiness and ability to respond to emergencies, which demonstrates to the community that we will be there in their time of need.” He further remarked: “We have work to do around ensuring our processes are efficient and effective and that the right people are in the right roles.” He indicated that the fire service was already advancing in these particular areas. For updates, follow BBC Shropshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X, and Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding our external linking policy is available.