Chief Fire Officer, John Roberts, writes:
"I am delighted to share that the outcome of our latest HMICFRS Inspection includes eight ‘good’ judgements. This is a strong reflection of the quality of our Service and the work our people deliver every day.
"Whilst inspection reports matter, they can never tell the full story of the contribution colleagues make every day across our Service. What they do provide is important recognition of many of the strengths that exist across the organisation and the positive difference colleagues make to our communities.
"The report also identifies two areas, Promoting, Embedding and Improving Values and Culture, and Preventing Fires and Other Risks, as "adequate". We will take time to consider these findings carefully as we review the report in full and continue building on the progress we've made as a Service.
"When I think about what sits behind these results, I think about firefighters responding to emergencies at all times of the day and night. I think about Fire Control Operators providing calm, reassurance and expertise when people are often facing some of the most challenging moments of their lives. I think about prevention and protection colleagues helping make our communities safer and reducing risk before incidents occur. And I think about service delivery, service support and enabling colleagues whose knowledge, support and determination help make everything we do possible.
"One of the great privileges of being Chief Fire Officer is having the opportunity to spend time with colleagues from right across our Service. Whether I'm visiting stations, spending time in departments or speaking with teams across the organisation, I consistently see the same qualities. Professionalism, commitment and pride in what we do. I see colleagues supporting each other, responding positively to challenges and continually looking for ways to improve the service we provide to our communities.
"Those qualities run through every part of our Service and I have no doubt they are a key reason why this inspection has reached the conclusions it has. Of course, we know there is always more to do. There will be time to consider the findings in detail and identify where we can continue to improve. Today, however, I think it is important that we recognise what has been achieved and the progress we've made together."
Chair of West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Authority, Ryk Downes, says:
"On behalf of the Fire Authority, I would like to congratulate every colleague on this significant achievement.
"Having served on the Authority for a number of years, and now as its Chair, I have seen first-hand the professionalism and commitment that colleagues bring to serving the people of West Yorkshire. These results provide important independent recognition of that work. They reflect the contribution made by colleagues across the whole Service, and the difference you make to individuals, families, businesses and communities across our county.
"The Fire Authority has an important role in overseeing and supporting the Service, making sure resources are used responsibly and that the needs and risks of our communities remain at the centre of decision-making. This result gives us confidence in the progress being made, while recognising that there will always be more to do.
"For today, I hope colleagues will take time to reflect on what has been achieved together. You should be very proud of this result.”