Six months on – Commissioner outlines progress made after transfer of governance of North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service

Julia Mulligan addressed Inside Government’s annual Fire and Rescue Services Forum in London with a focus on the need to work in collaboration to improve the quality of fire and rescue services.

The Commissioner outlined the benefits from the transfer, including a shared vision and common purpose among North Yorkshire Police and North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, the ability to learn from each other and a determination from the new senior leadership team to work, together where appropriate, in the public interest.

Julia Mulligan’s speech went on to highlight the benefits that further collaboration between emergency services can have, including sharing estate and back office functions and closer alignment on prevention and resource deployment.

However, she also made it clear that it was important to reassure everyone that the independence of the two services is vital, with separate budgets, chief officers and staff, and that any savings made from one service will not fund the other.

Speaking after the event, Julia Mulligan said:

“Six months after the transfer of governance, this speech was a moment for me to reflect on the work that has happened, the lessons we have learnt and the challenges and opportunities that remain for the future of North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service.

“One of my priorities has always been to talk to people and let them know what is happening and why – from those on the frontline, to those who support them and the residents and businesses of the county.

“The six months ahead will see more difficult decisions as we face funding reductions and changes in the way services are delivered. But I am confident that, due to the approach we have taken so far, we can make the right choices that deliver on the aim we all share – to keep North Yorkshire safe and feeling safe.”