Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Transformation Consultation

Highland Council has today (10 May) strongly welcomed proposals from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service which will transform the way the service operates across Scotland.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service are currently consulting on a range of proposals that will change the way they operate in communities across Highland.  This is in direct response to the change in challenges facing the organisation and seeks views on the vision for transformation, change in operating model and new roles for firefighters. 

The Highland Council has agreed a response to the SFRS consultation which outlines support for the proposals, particularly in relation to the positive change that this will have in rural communities.  The change in vehicles will enable greater flexibility and availability from Retained Duty Service Crews and the new first responder roles will enable firefighters to respond to falls and out of hospital cardiac arrests where there is no immediate ambulance provision available.

Scrutiny Lead Cllr Matthew Reiss said:  “I am delighted at the proposed changes and the positive impact these will have in our communities.  The changes will also help our RDS crews with the very difficult and vital job that they are doing. 

“As a national service, they are clearly demonstrating and recognising that one size doesn’t fit all across our communities.  The current proposals show that they are listening to the concerns raised and proposing solutions for these.

“The proposals are truly transformational and I commend the service on their foresight which will help to support and sustain communities across the north.”