Inspection of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service North Service Delivery Area

The purpose of this inspection is to examine the effectiveness of Service Delivery by the SFRS within its North SDA.

An inquiry by the Inspectorate can be self-directed or can be subject to direction by Scottish Ministers. This inquiry into the SFRS is self-directed by the Chief Inspector, Robert Scott QFSM.

The following persons also contributed to the Inspection and to the report:

John Joyce QFSM, Assistant Inspector

David Young, Assistant Inspector

Graeme Fraser, Assistant Inspector

Brian McKenzie, Assistant Inspector

Calum Bruce, Inspection Support Manager

Lynne Gow, Group Commander (SFRS secondee)

Shirley Hartridge, Project Manager (SFRS secondee)

Methodology

This inspection has involved a number of different methods of evidence gathering and analysis:

• A desk top data review of documents and data supplied by the SFRS. We undertook a sense check and assessment of the content of procedural documents.
  
  
• A number of face-to-face and virtual interviews with SFRS staff who are responsible for the provision of, management, and training necessary for service delivery.
  
  
• A sample examination of SFRS equipment, premises and records held at fire stations in the West.
  
  
• In person and virtual meetings with Partners of the SFRS.
  
  
• An anonymous survey of all SFRS staff based within the NSDA.
  
  
• Observation of development, training and exercising sessions within the NSDA.