Written Question · S2W-20198 · Session 2
What work is being carried out to improve the recruitment and retention of staff in the retained duty system in each fire and rescue author…
The question
To ask the Scottish Executive what work is being carried out to improve the recruitment and retention of staff in the retained duty system in each fire and rescue authority and what support this work receives from central government.
The answer
Recruitment and retention ofstaff is primarily a matter for individual fire and rescue authorities and jointfire and rescue board. The Scottish Executive provides central funding, supportand guidance. This has included two independent research programmes on issues affectingstaff on the retained duty system, including recruitment and retention. The resultingreports were publicised in 2002 Retained Auxiliary and Volunteer Firefightersin the Scottish Fire Service by the Central research Unit, and in 2003 Part-timeFirefighters by Scottish Executive Social Research, and can be viewed at http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Justice/Fire/15130/1027.
We have indicated in the Fireand Rescue Framework for Scotland 2005 that we will work with Fire and Rescue Authoritiesto implement the report’s recommendations.
The framework also states thatwe expect part-time staff to be given the same opportunities as their whole timecounterparts to participate in the Integrated Personal Development System and undertakedevelopment programmes commensurate with the requirements of individual fire andrescue authorities.
HM Fire Services Inspectoratefor Scotland is currently reviewing progress and identifying areas of best practicein the wider use of part time staff in all eight Scottish Fire and Rescue Servicesas part of their performance inspections arrangements.
We have indicated in the Fireand Rescue Framework for Scotland 2005 that we will work with Fire and Rescue Authoritiesto implement the report’s recommendations.
The framework also states thatwe expect part-time staff to be given the same opportunities as their whole timecounterparts to participate in the Integrated Personal Development System and undertakedevelopment programmes commensurate with the requirements of individual fire andrescue authorities.
HM Fire Services Inspectoratefor Scotland is currently reviewing progress and identifying areas of best practicein the wider use of part time staff in all eight Scottish Fire and Rescue Servicesas part of their performance inspections arrangements.
In the Official Report
No contribution in the Official Report cites S2W-20198 by reference.