Strategic goal 6

This goal is focused on the work we do to ensure that the Service and its finances are well managed, that we deliver value for money, and that we invest prudently to deliver an outstanding service which is fit for purpose now and in the future.

Over the last three years the country has experienced a period of considerable financial instability, caused by events both here and abroad. As a result, we have faced a range of challenges including high rates of inflation, higher than budgeted pay settlements, significantly increased interest rates, and supply chain issues.

We have worked hard to deliver a balanced budget throughout this period whilst protecting frontline services. We have maintained our commitment to invest in the Service, including capital investments in our stations, training facilities and firefighting vehicles and equipment. We are committed to reducing our environmental impact and working towards a net-zero carbon footprint. We have developed a decarbonisation roadmap and secured grant funding to make sustainability alterations at Highfields fire station.

Our ongoing focus on strong governance is reflected in positive assessments from both our internal and external auditors on the strength of our corporate governance and risk management, and on the value for money we deliver.

Over the life of the next CRMP, we expect the financial challenges to continue to shape our plans. Whilst we continue to receive single year funding settlements, it is difficult to plan for the future with confidence. We will use all available data to find the most effective ways of providing the best possible services to the public, utilising our resources to best effect, whilst fulfilling our statutory obligation to operate with a balanced budget.

Over the next three years, we will:

• Build a new community fire station to replace the existing Stockhill station
• Continue to refurbish and improve our other fire stations, with a focus on reducing the environmental impact of our buildings
• Maintain proportionate investment in vehicles, equipment and systems, including retendering for systems and services that are coming to the end of their contracts
• Improve our processes for planning, procurement, risk management and internal governance
• Continue to seek opportunities for collaboration where there is benefit to be gained