Cleveland Fire Brigade rated among top in the country despite facing 'some of the largest cuts to its government funding'

Cleveland Fire Brigade has been officially rated as one of the top performing emergency services in the country.
Chief Fire Officer Ian HaytonChief Fire Officer Ian Hayton
Chief Fire Officer Ian Hayton

Independent assessors have rated the brigade as ‘good’ in all areas of work in a report published by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate for Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS).

Inspectors looked at how effectively and efficiently the service prevents fires, protects the public and responds to all emergencies.

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The inspectors also examined how well staff are looked after.

In all these three key areas of efficiency, effectiveness and people – the brigade has been rated as ‘good’

HM Inspector of Fire and Rescue Services Phil Gormley said: “I am pleased to report that Cleveland Fire Brigade performed well in each of the main areas of our inspection. This is also impressive given that the

brigade has faced some of the largest cuts to its government funding.

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“This is an excellent performance from the brigade. People can be confident that they are being well-served.”

Chief Fire Officer Ian Hayton said: “To be independently recognised as one of the best performing fire and rescue services in the country is a fantastic achievement.

“I am immensely proud to lead an organisation with such a dedicated and professional workforce who make a real difference to the safety and lives of people in our communities.

He added: “I would like to pay tribute to the tremendous support we get from our communities, businesses, partner agencies and other organisations right across the area. Most importantly I would like to sincerely thank

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everyone who works for Cleveland Fire Brigade for their professionalism, dedication and hard work and making a positive difference to the safety and lives of the people”.

County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service was also rated “good” in most areas.

It achieved that rating in in effectiveness and efficiency by the inspectorate but advised to make some improvements in how it looks after its employees, gaining two “goods” out of four in this area.

Chief Fire Officer Stuart Errington said: “I am extremely proud of the service, our overall inspection results mean we are in the top 50% of all fire and rescue services in the

UK.”

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