News
National review urges reform of Welsh Fire and Rescue Authorities
A MAJOR new report has highlighted significant weaknesses in the governance of Wales’ Fire and Rescue Authorities (FRAs), calling for urgent action from the Welsh Government to address long-standing concerns. The Auditor General for Wales has criticised the current governance structures as lacking the necessary expertise and oversight required to manage the vital emergency services these authorities provide.
Fire and Rescue Authorities, which are responsible for fire-fighting, promoting fire safety, and responding to road traffic accidents, play a critical role in protecting Welsh communities. However, the Auditor General’s review warns that the system designed to govern these authorities is not fit for purpose, raising concerns over accountability and effectiveness.
What do councillors know about fire fighting?
One of the key findings of the report is that the current governance model for FRAs, which relies exclusively on councillors nominated by their local authorities, is not aligned with the specialist nature of fire and rescue services. Members of FRAs are drawn from local councils, often with little or no prior experience in fire and rescue, meaning they lack the technical knowledge required to make informed decisions on crucial public safety matters.
“Fire and Rescue Authorities provide vital services, and it’s important that they are governed in a manner reflecting the public and environment they serve,” said Adrian Crompton, the Auditor General for Wales. He urged the Welsh Government and the FRAs themselves to address these governance weaknesses and ensure that the people tasked with overseeing these services are properly equipped for the job.
The report highlights that while elected councillors provide important community representation, this does not guarantee the specific skills needed for governing such specialised services. As a result, there is a significant gap in knowledge and experience that poses a risk to the effective oversight of fire and rescue services across Wales.
Limited training and short-termism of positions
The review also revealed that many FRA members do not receive sufficient training to help bridge this knowledge gap. Of the three FRAs in Wales—North Wales, South Wales, and Mid & West Wales—only the latter provides a structured programme of training and development for its members. Elsewhere, training is sporadic and not consistently aligned with members’ individual needs, leaving many unprepared for the responsibilities they face.
In addition, the high turnover of FRA members, with frequent changes in membership due to local elections, further complicates the situation. The report found that this constant churn of councillors prevents the development of long-term expertise within the FRAs, making it difficult to maintain a knowledgeable and engaged governing body.
“Governance requires stability, expertise, and a clear understanding of roles and responsibilities,” the report states. However, the review found that in practice, many members did not demonstrate a clear understanding of their governance duties, further weakening the effectiveness of decision-making processes.
Lack of scrutiny and accountability
Another significant concern raised in the report is the lack of rigorous scrutiny and challenge within FRA governance structures. The review found that in many committee meetings, there was minimal questioning or discussion on important matters, including strategic risk management and performance oversight. This raises fears that decisions are being made without sufficient scrutiny, potentially putting public safety at risk.
The Auditor General also expressed concerns over the lack of diversity among FRA members, with the majority being male and few representatives from ethnic minority backgrounds. This lack of diversity, the report argues, reduces the ability of FRAs to reflect the communities they serve and engage with a broad range of perspectives on public safety issues.
The report further criticises the absence of regular evaluations of individual FRA members’ contributions, meaning there is no mechanism to assess whether members are fulfilling their roles effectively. This, coupled with the lack of structured training, results in a governance system that is not fully accountable to the public.
Urgent calls for reform
This is not the first time Welsh FRAs have faced calls for reform. In 2018, the Welsh Government’s White Paper on FRA governance recommended reducing the number of elected councillors in favour of appointing non-executive members with specialist expertise in fire and rescue. However, these proposals were never implemented, leaving the current governance structures largely unchanged.
The Auditor General’s report echoes these earlier recommendations, urging the Welsh Government to revisit its governance model. It calls for a membership structure that better reflects the technical and operational demands of fire and rescue services, ensuring that those tasked with overseeing these services have the necessary skills and knowledge.
In particular, the report recommends that the Welsh Government conduct a comprehensive review of FRA governance to introduce clearer accountability mechanisms and improve the training and development available to members. This would include regular assessments of members’ skills and contributions, as well as a more formal approach to succession planning within the FRAs.
Financial pressures not helping
The need for reform is made all the more urgent by the financial pressures facing the public sector. The combined budget of the three Welsh FRAs for 2024-25 is approximately £200 million, equating to £64 per head of the population. With such significant sums of money at stake, ensuring these funds are managed effectively is crucial, particularly in the current economic climate.
The report warns that the lack of robust governance could undermine the ability of FRAs to deliver value for money, with public safety potentially being compromised as a result. It emphasises that strong governance is essential for effective decision-making and the delivery of high-quality services, particularly in times of financial austerity.
A long road ahead
The findings of the Auditor General’s review have put the Welsh Government under pressure to act swiftly. The issues identified are not new, but the report makes clear that the need for change is more pressing than ever. As public sector budgets tighten, and the complexity of fire and rescue services increases, the risks posed by inadequate governance structures could have serious consequences for communities across Wales.
Whether the Welsh Government will heed the Auditor General’s call for reform remains to be seen. However, the message from the report is clear: without action, the governance of Wales’ Fire and Rescue Authorities will continue to fall short of what is required to keep the public safe and ensure effective management of these essential services.
In the meantime, the public will be watching closely to see if the necessary reforms are put in place to address the serious issues raised in the report and ensure that Wales’ Fire and Rescue Authorities are governed with the expertise and accountability they deserve.
Responding, Joel James MS, Shadow Minister for Social Partnership, said: “It’s vital that those who form FRAs have the necessary skills and knowledge to maintain a high standard of service management.
“We’d encourage the Welsh Government to be led by this report and ensure that expertise can be retained in fire service governance.”
Thirty packs provide immediate help for families fleeing dangerous situations
A NEW initiative aimed at supporting victims of domestic abuse has seen thirty emergency bags distributed for use across the Dyfed-Powys Police area.
The bags, which contain essential items including toiletries, non-perishable snacks and emergency supplies, are designed to offer immediate practical support to individuals and families forced to flee abusive situations, often with little or nothing.
The scheme forms part of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s wider commitment to improving outcomes for victims and is being delivered in partnership with Dyfed-Powys Police and Dal i Godi, the commissioned Independent Domestic Violence Adviser (IDVA) service.
Dal i Godi provides specialist support to victims at high risk of serious harm, including safety planning and advocacy through the criminal justice process.
Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn said the initiative was already proving its value.
“This is an incredible initiative that I’m proud to support,” he said. “It provides meaningful help to those experiencing trauma and reflects our ongoing work to put victims first.
“Within just a few days of the bags being distributed to the Dal i Godi service, one was given to a victim fleeing a domestic abuse situation, along with a children’s pack to support their young family. That shows just how essential this support can be and how quickly it can make a difference.”
Detective Chief Inspector Llyr Williams, from the Dyfed-Powys Police Vulnerability Hub, said the emergency bags could provide a vital lifeline at critical moments.
“These emergency bags offer support at some of the most difficult moments in a person’s life,” he said.
“The contents provide immediate comfort, dignity and practical help for those leaving their homes in crisis. While simple, they represent an important first step towards safety and recovery.
“We are proud to be working with partners across the Dyfed-Powys area to ensure this support reaches people when they need it most.”
Anyone experiencing domestic abuse, or concerned about someone else, is encouraged to seek help. In an emergency, call 999.
Domestic abuse can also be reported online via Dyfed-Powys Police.
Support services available include Victim Support Dyfed-Powys, which offers free and confidential help to anyone affected by crime, whether or not it has been reported, and Dal i Godi, which provides specialist IDVA support for high-risk victims.
The Live Fear Free Helpline offers 24-hour support for those experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence across Wales.
If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse, please consider reporting it. If you are in danger or need support right away, please call 999.
You can report domestic abuse through the online crime reporting service here: Report domestic abuse | Dyfed-Powys Police.
Support is also available via the below support services:
Victim Support Dyfed-Powys
Free, independent support for anyone affected by crime in the Dyfed-Powys area, whether or not it has been reported to the police.
0300 123 2996
Dal i Godi (IDVA Service)
Specialist support for victims of domestic abuse at high risk, offering safety planning, emotional support, and advocacy with agencies such as police and courts.
01267 221194
Live Fear Free Helpline
24/7 support for anyone experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence.
0808 80 10 800 | Text 07860 077333
Estyn highlights strong leadership, positive attitudes and a clear curriculum vision at Ysgol Bro Preseli
A WELSH-medium all-age school in Crymych has been praised by inspectors for fostering a “happy, proud and friendly community,” according to a recent Estyn report.
Inspectors said pupils at Ysgol Bro Preseli show pride in their local area, thrive both academically and socially, and are well prepared for the next stages of their learning.
The school currently has 932 pupils on roll, including 118 in the sixth form, and has operated as an all-age school since 2022.
Estyn found that most pupils demonstrate extremely positive attitudes to learning, treat staff with respect, and listen carefully to the contributions of their peers.
The report also notes that, in almost all cases, teachers show strong subject knowledge. Inspectors highlighted the close and supportive relationships staff build with pupils, alongside the creation of a safe learning environment where pupils are not afraid to make mistakes.
It states: “As a result of a clear strategic direction and detailed planning, teachers provide beneficial practical activities that allow pupils to develop purposeful oracy, reading and writing skills in language sessions and across the other areas of learning and experience.”
Inspectors also praised the school’s clear curriculum vision, rooted in its motto Gwreiddiau a Gorwelion (Roots and Horizons).
“Leaders and teachers provide a coherent curriculum and learning experiences that bridge the primary and secondary sectors effectively,” the report said. “Staff plan stimulating activities and experiences for pupils to learn and deepen their understanding within the areas of learning and experience. This contributes positively to the sense of belonging that permeates the whole curriculum of Ysgol Bro Preseli.”
Headteacher Rhonwen Morris said the report was a reflection of the collective effort across the school community.
“As a successful all-age Welsh-medium school, we are delighted that the report recognises our commitment to excellence and the unique identity that makes Ysgol Bro Preseli so special,” she said.
“Since becoming an all-age school in 2022, our cohesive leadership team and governing body have focused on building a strong foundation based on our values of Welsh ethos, kindness, community and responsibility.
“The report highlights the excellent strategic work of staff at all levels, which is a testament to the shared dedication and vision that drives our school forward.
“It is gratifying that the report reflects what we continuously aim to achieve day in and day out. This achievement belongs to our entire community — staff, pupils, parents and governors — and together we will continue to build on this success and provide the very best education for every pupil.”
SPECSAVERS Pembroke Dock has helped raise £1,600 to support people experiencing homelessness this winter, with all funds going to The Wallich’s winter appeal.
Thirteen stores from North, South and West Wales donated £1 for every customer feedback form completed during November to help The Wallich, Wales’ largest homelessness and rough sleeping charity, continue its vital work.
Supporting more than 8,000 people experiencing or at risk of homelessness across the nation each year, The Wallich runs around 100 diverse projects across 20 local authorities to provide hope, support and solutions to end homelessness.
Funds raised by Specsavers will go directly to the Wallich’s Flexible Assistance Fund, which provides small but vital emergency grants. The grants support people at crucial turning points, helping cover essential costs such as phone credit, rent or food shops.
This initiative is a continuation of Specsavers’ wider homelessness programme, which sees over a hundred Specsavers stores and Home Visits services hold out-of-hours or pop-up clinics and invite people affected by forms of homelessness to use their services for free.
Specsavers’ North Wales regional relationship manager, Martin Lawrence, who helped organise the fundraiser, says: ‘We’re really proud to be supporting The Wallich’s winter appeal at a time when support is needed most.
‘Homelessness affects people in every community and as locally owned and run businesses, Specsavers stores are committed to raising awareness of the issue and supporting people through their toughest moments.
‘We’re excited to build on the success of this fundraiser and strengthen our partnership with The Wallich in the new year.’
Louisa Turner, head of fundraising at The Wallich, adds: ‘Winter can be an incredibly difficult time for people experiencing homelessness and this support from Specsavers will make a real difference.
‘The funds raised will help provide emergency grants at critical moments – whether that’s putting food on the table, helping someone stay connected with their loved ones or preventing someone from losing a safe place to live.
‘This kind of support creates vital turning points and helps people move towards a safer, more secure future.’
Specsavers works year-round with homelessness charities including Crisis, Vision Care and The Big Issue, to improve access to healthcare and advocate for policy change – ensuring people experiencing homelessness can receive free eye tests, glasses and hearing checks.
To find out more about Specsavers or to book an appointment at your local store, visit: https://www.specsavers.co.uk/stores.
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