West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS) has launched its Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP) and Strategy 2024-27.

Both took effect on 1 April, following their approval in February by members of West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority (WMFRA).

The feedback of thousands of people who live and work in the West Midlands conurbation, gathered during our 2023 consultation, helped to shape the CRMP.

It takes account of all foreseeable risks our communities might face – from house fires and road traffic collisions, through to the impacts of climate change and terrorism.

The CRMP provides the foundations for the WMFS Strategy 2024-27, which details 17 goals focused on delivering our vision of ‘Making the West Midlands safer, stronger, and healthier’.

The goals fall within four areas of focus for how we run our service: Community Risk Reduction, People, Enabling Services and Value.

Progress towards achieving the goals will be tracked by Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and published on the service’s website. An Annual Report will also celebrate our wins and highlight areas where we need to do more.

A graphic showing lots of buildings, roads, canals representative of the West Midlands, with fire service vehicles on the roads.

Oliver Lee OBE

Chief Executive Officer

I am confident that we can also build on what the service has achieved in more recent years, including ‘outstanding’ assessments from our national inspectorate, and being named the UK’s Most Inclusive Employer two years running.

Oliver Lee OBE, who took up his role as WMFS’s Chief Executive Officer last week (25 March), said: “My first few days with West Midlands Fire Service have confirmed what I had hoped to find – amazing people who want to do their very best for their communities.

“Our Community Risk Management Plan and the WMFS Strategy 2024-27 provide the framework for continuing to deliver services for the people of the West Midlands, for which WMFS has built its enviable reputation over the last fifty years.

“I am confident that we can also build on what the service has achieved in more recent years, including ‘outstanding’ assessments from our national inspectorate, and being named the UK’s Most Inclusive Employer two years running.

“Our 2023 public consultation brought in some specific asks from people who responded, such as more community engagement and a focus on areas of risk such as climate change. These are reflected in our strategic goals, alongside other commitments to ensure our services are as effective, efficient and sustainable as possible.”

Councillor Greg Brackenridge

Chair of West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority

I never cease to be amazed by the resilience and dedication of staff across West Midlands Fire Service. They and the authority are focused on delivering excellent services to our communities with professionalism and pride.

WMFS looks to the future with new comprehensive Strategy and Community Risk Management Plan for 2024-27

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