The West Midlands Fire and Rescue Service will come under the control of the region's mayor from 2027, as part of government devolution plans. The transfer also includes the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, expected to follow in 2028.
Concerns Over Readiness and Cultural Issues
At a West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) Audit, Risk and Assurance Committee meeting, Wolverhampton councillor Ben Evans raised concerns about the authority's preparedness to become one of the region's largest employers. He highlighted historic cultural issues, including bullying and harassment allegations that led to a major government inspection.
Dominic Mika, WMCA Strategic Lead for Fire and Police Transfer, stated that teams from both authorities are working together to address all issues. “We absolutely recognise the depth and scope of that ask and the number of staff we are bringing into the service,” he said.
Scale of Staff and Union Engagement
Councillor Evans noted the fire service's large workforce, with most expenditure on wages and pensions, unlike local councils that contract out services. He also emphasised the importance of engaging with the Fire Brigades Union (FBU), which seeks representation at the combined authority level.
Mr Mika confirmed close engagement with unions, saying, “I've worked with the FBU in the past. They were panel members for all of my interviews, so they've been engaged really closely.”
Addressing Cultural Challenges
Councillor Evans warned of the “massive cultural issue” the authority would inherit, including bullying and harassment problems. Mr Mika, with experience at HM Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services and South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, acknowledged the challenge.
“I wouldn't under-estimate the cultural issues and impacts within fire and rescue services,” he said. “Our people team and their people teams have already had discussions around fire service culture to understand how it differs from maybe what we might be used to and some of the impacts in those areas.” He noted progress with a new chief fire officer and senior leadership team.
