Core Principle | B
Ensuring openness and comprehensive stakeholder engagement demonstrated through:
Public Participation at Authority Meetings
— members of the public can register to speak and raise any topic at full Authority meetings if it is relevant to the duties and power of the Fire Authority.
Public Consultation — public consultation on the Community Risk Management Plan 2025-30 took place between 11th February 2025 and 6th April. This included public focus groups, social media advertising and an on-line questionnaire sent to key stakeholders and representative bodies. The outcome of the consultation will be reported to the Authority when considering the plan for approval in October 2025.
Internal Engagement — the Authority is committed to ensuring effective engagement with its staff. In additional to consultation and negotiation with recognised trade union bodies, for example via the Joint Consultative Committee (JCC), staff groups such as Women@ HWFire and the Neurodiverse Staff Network provide forums for engagement with staff. In 2023, the Service conducted a staff survey as well as commissioning an independent, external, Cultural Audit.
Active Engagement with Partners — the Authority is represented on Local Strategic Partnerships, the Safer Roads Partnership and local Community Safety Partnerships. The Authority has also worked closely with West Mercia Police with regards to sharing buildings and assets and has set up a strategic alliance with Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service.