VITALLY-NEEDED improvements have been made by Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service.
Its performance rating has risen from “requires improvement” to “good” in the latest inspection by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS)
In 2021 HMICFRS found a number of causes for concern in the service’s performance. In particular, it was concluded WFRS ‘urgently’ needed to improve the effectiveness of its fire safety regulation.
According to the report, high-risk residential buildings had still not been inspected by WFRS two years after concerns were first raised.
The results of the recent HMICFRS inspection note the service is committed to improvement. The number of cause for concerns has reduced from three in 2021 to zero and the identified areas for improvement have reduced from 41 to five.
Chief fire officer Ben Brook said: “We welcome the results from the recent HMICFRS report, both positive and areas for improvement, they reflect the significant improvements made across the service and the dedication of our people throughout Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service.
“This is all part of our journey of continuous improvement. We will be fully considering all aspects of the report, and this is an opportunity to build on our strengths, address areas for improvement with purpose, and keep the service moving forward.”
Warwickshire County Council’s fire and rescue spokesperson Coun Robert Gisbourne added WFRS had worked hard to improve following the previous inspection.
He added: “These results demonstrate the hard work from the service and highlight their focus on continual improvement.
“However, this is not a point to stand still and the service will continue to push forward, embracing the recommendations from the report and continuing to improve.”
HMICFRS independently assess and report on the effectiveness, efficiency and people with fire and rescue services across the UK.
Visit hmicfrs.justiceinspectorates.gov.uk/frs-assessments/warwickshire-2025-2027/ to read the full report.
