"We are pleased to see that the health and wellbeing of firefighters is being given the priority that these brave emergency workers deserve."
Responding to the Government's announcement of a Firefighters Concordat, Cllr Mick Barton, Chair of the LGA’s Fire & Rescue Authority Committee, said: “We are pleased to see that the health and wellbeing of firefighters is being given the priority that these brave emergency workers deserve, and it is encouraging to see the emphasis on improving prevention, early diagnosis and support both during and after service.
“The health and wellbeing of firefighters is a clear priority for Fire and Rescue Authorities who recognise the important work they do in keeping communities safe. This new concordant will support work between the Fire Minister and the Secretary of State for Health, with the full support of the sector via the Ministerial Advisory Group for Fire, ensuring a joined up, evidence based and focused support offer, which will work to directly support firefighters.
“However, as we build the evidence base on what interventions improve the long-term health and wellbeing of firefighters, the fire and rescue sector needs the funding to be able deliver better outcomes. This could include for example capital investment to improve facilities for removing contaminants when firefighters return to their stations.”