The most comprehensive plans for fire reform in decades have been set out today in the government’s Fire Reform White Paper, which will help strengthen the emergency services and seek to ensure people feel safer in their homes.

The package builds upon changes following the Grenfell Tower fire and findings from independent inspection reports.

The changes announced include the commencement of the Fire Safety Act 2021 which will make sure all blocks of flats are properly assessed for fire safety risks and the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 which will help ensure people feel safe in their homes.

The White Paper sets out proposals which aim to:    

• Increase public safety: by improving the professionalism of the fire and rescue service through modern workforce practices and potentially establishing a College of Fire and Rescue.   
• Improve accountability: through the proposals to transfer fire governance to a single elected individual, overseeing delivery by operationally independent Chief Fire Officers.   
• Listen to the public: through the 10-week consultation the government will listen to the views of the public and stakeholders, after which it will finalise its reform programme.