The Chair asked Gill Gittins to introduce the update.

Gill highlighted the work of the Inclusive Fire Service Group which comprises the National Employers, the NFCC, the Fire Brigades Union, the Fire Officers Association and the Fire and Rescue Services Association which seeks to secure improvements in fire service equality, diversity, inclusion and cultural issues. She said that this was particularly pertinent in the light of the HMICFRS’s findings in these areas.

Members asked whether there was any new information on the financial implications of the McCloud judgement for FRAs. Gill said that there wasn’t but, as the decision was outside of the control of the fire service nationally, options such as Government New Burdens funding, were being explored to cover all costs.

Decision

Members noted the update.