Please find below a statement from Chief Fire Officer Chris Lowther on the HMICFRS Culture Report that was published on Thursday, March 30th.

The report has proposed 35 recommendations for Fire and Rescue Services across the country in relation to improving culture in the workplace.

“I have read the report and can confirm that we will be taking account of all of the recommendations put forward by the HMICFRS.

“The behaviours described are deeply concerning and I have already made clear in recent weeks that we will not tolerate bullying, harassment and victimisation here in Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service.

“This report makes clear that every fire and rescue service needs to improve and we fully accept there is still more we can do to create an environment for our staff where they have the confidence to speak up where things are not right, and know that this is acted upon.

“Our staff are dedicated public servants who come to work every day to support our vision of creating the safest community. However, that must not leave us blind to the improvements we need to make here in Tyne and Wear, or across the sector.

“We will ensure that, where improvements are required, we act swiftly and decisively to address these. Our staff, and the communities we serve, deserve no less than this.”

Chief Fire Officer Chris Lowther, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service