The re-launched Fire Sector Federation is a not-for-profit non-government organisation ready to become "the voice" of the UK Fire Sector on future national policy and strategy.

Following a merger with the Federation of British Fire Organisations, the FSF now represents stakeholders from across the whole UK Fire Sector and wider built environment.

At the heart of the FSF are a number of focused workstreams which examine in detail issues considered to be of particular importance to the fire sector, with  established workstreams on technical guidance; statistics; technology; workforce development; procurement;  international issues; national policy; enforcement; fire investigation; and All Party Parliamentary Fire Safety Group activities.

The FSF was originally established (as the Fire Sector Partnership) in response to the Fire Minister Bob Neill's Fire Futures review in 2010, which was designed to enable sector partners to shape the future direction of fire policy in England.

As a result of the review, the Government made it clear that it no longer intended to control and direct the way fire and rescue services and cross-sector functions are managed, and instead expects the fire sector to take a lead in shaping policy.

FSF Chairman Brian Robinson explained how he hopes the new Federation can become a major player in national policy: "The FSF aims to fill the void left by Government.

"We plan to develop policy by providing a broad spectrum of opinion from the fire sector, releasing views and advice on behalf of the unified sector, as we look to cut silo mentality in working practices by addressing both the built and natural environment, as well as fire and rescue service issues.

"Using the knowledge, experience and skills that exist across the sector, the Federation aims to improve communication and cooperation to help drive efficiency, common policy and common standards."

Membership is open to any organisation able to demonstrate a legitimate interest in the built, natural, fire and rescue service or national resilience environments.

For further information about the FSF, or to apply for membership, visit www.firesectorfederation.co.uk 

Posted 15/08/2012 by richard.hook@pavpub.com