The Chief Inspector's Plan 2025-2028

As HM Chief Inspector of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, it gives me great pleasure to present the Chief Inspector’s Plan for 2025‑2028.

This three‑year Plan outlines how HM Fire Service Inspectorate in Scotland (HMFSI) will meet its statutory purpose to inquire into the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) to assist in its continuous improvement, and to provide assurance to the public and Scottish Ministers that the SFRS is performing in an efficient and effective manner.

This Plan describes the role of the Inspectorate, along with our strategy and priorities for the inspection of the SFRS, and information on how inspection will be carried out. The Plan has been prepared to meet the requirements of section 43F of the Fire (Scotland) Act 2005.

We acknowledge that our inspections over the period of this Plan will be carried out at a time when the SFRS faces significant challenge as a consequence of ongoing budget pressures. Our inspections will also take place during a period following the Service imposing a temporary reduction in fire appliance provision, and in which it is considering what further changes may be appropriate for the future. We will of course maintain a focus on any proposed alteration of service delivery arrangements and will provide independent advice and comment where appropriate to do so.

We have consulted with key partners regarding this Plan and will also consult on each of the Annual Operating Plans aligned to this document. We will keep our planning under review and adapt, as necessary, over the course of this three year period to meet any changing or pressing requirements identified or placed on the SFRS.

We remain committed to fulfilling our statutory duty and to supporting the SFRS in its journey of continuous improvement.

Robert D Scott QFSM

HM Chief Inspector of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service