In the current world climate, it seems impossible to know or predict what is going to happen next, and writing an editorial in advance of publication leaves me wondering what will have changed between now and then.
The United Kingdom, the Nations of the Commonwealth and the wider world shared in mourning the loss of Queen Elizabeth II. In a world of change, Queen Elizabeth undoubtedly set an example to us all that in a position of leadership one must consistently demonstrate the very highest standards. In a ceremony fitting for the passing of our country’s longest-serving monarch, the world united to celebrate our late Queen’s life of duty and dedication. May Queen Elizabeth II rest in peace and we wish King Charles III a long and healthy reign.
The Emergency Services Show in September once again brought the manufacturers and providers of fire and rescue equipment and services together with potential buyers and end users. The shift to embrace emerging technology was clear both in the equipment and vehicles on display and in the content of the wide range of discussion forums taking place. Unlike historic events where technology sometimes appeared futuristic and focused on technology that might make a difference, modern manufacturers and service providers are demonstrating a focus on using technology to do things in a safer and smarter way. The technology to provide safer protective clothing, enhanced situational awareness and better communications offer the opportunity to significantly improve both public and firefighter safety, and it was encouraging to see how products have evolved in line with the needs of the end user.
The turmoil of UK politics shows no sign of settling with the global financial events that followed a now seemingly redundant mini budget. In the UK, historically we could generally view the politics of other nations and learn from their mistakes. At this moment in time that role seems reversed with the leaders of other nations and even the International Monetary Fund criticising the seemingly reckless actions of our political leaders that have worsened the extremely difficult financial position of our country. A commitment not to cut public spending has now been reversed and it appears we are once again heading for a recession.
It is difficult to remain positive when the environment we are currently living in seems so challenging. The rising cost of energy with a simultaneous increase in inflation will leave those most vulnerable in society in a difficult position when deciding how to balance their household needs. In fire-safety terms there seems a genuine risk that people may revert to non-standard and potentially unsafe methods of lighting and heating their homes to save money. It will be important that publicity campaigns recognise and do their best to provide both fire-safety education and direction to support those most in need. Once again this is likely to mean seeking to communicate with those who are hardest to reach. Our fire and rescue service personnel have a proven ability in this field and have been the envy of other public service providers in the past. I hope Services will step up to the plate and once again be at the forefront in supporting our communities in challenging times.
Like other public-sector workers, Firefighters are seeing real-terms cuts to their salaries because of inflation. The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) are currently consulting their members on a revised 5% pay offer from the Government. Whilst the decision is for their membership, the FBU Executive Council are recommending the offer be rejected.
A beacon of hope exists for our fire-engineering companies as outlined by a positive and enlightening report from the UK Fire Industry Association (FIA). The annual FIA Guide to UK Fire Safety Industry, which has been nominated for an award by the Professional Publishers Association, provides an outline of the current market conditions for the industry compiled from survey responses from FIA members. The FIA highlights that the survey has added importance given its publication as a post-Brexit and post-pandemic report. Whilst the negative impacts of inflation and consignment delays are affecting businesses, positive findings include 42% of respondents experiencing growth. 69% of responding organisations describe slight or substantive increases in orders with the majority coming from the public sector. 41% have recruited additional skilled labour although most have maintained skilled staffing levels with 5% seeing a reduction. Training of staff is also showing a positive trend. Exports are reported as largely stagnant. However, an area of concern in the report is that only 33% of respondents have seen an increase in demand for third-party accreditation.
Overall, the FIA concluded that the findings demonstrate a relative vibrancy in business levels for the industry whilst acknowledging significant challenges with the cost and availability of materials. Despite the global market pressures, the FIA is heartened by ‘the capability of the fire safety industry in maintaining its excellent work in exceptional time’.
We are a profession and industry that has proven it can thrive in the face of adversity and our Firefighters still hold the respect of most in society. We need to continue doing what we do best as we ride the storm of uncertainty, as the inspirational Captain Sir Tom Moore said, ‘Tomorrow will be a good day’.
For more information, email phil.martin@ukfiremag.co.uk
