'Large number of extreme risks' in fire service

Jersey's fire service "lacks the capacity and capability to deliver its statutory duties safely and effectively", according to a new report from the audit office.

The audit evaluated how well the States of Jersey Fire and Rescue Service (SJFRS) uses its resources to manage risk, and to ensure it delivers an efficient, effective and economic service.

The audit said the service identified "a large number of extreme risks, associated with operating at current levels".

Comptroller and auditor general, Lynn Pamment, said more needs to be done to enable a "more effective service response and to eliminate occasions where there has been no available capacity".

"SJFRS needs to develop and implement a clear strategic plan incorporating all known risks and setting out key objectives, risk mitigations and measurable performance improvement targets," Pamment said.

"Until such a plan is in place and has been implemented the States continue to demonstrate a high level of tolerance of significant risks."

The report also highlights plans to adopt National Operational Guidance which is the recognised standard for UK fire and rescue services.

A plan was published in 2021 and updated last year, but the auditor general has found a "considerable amount of work" was needed to comply with those standards.

The financial performance for 2025 shows a marginal overspend position of £35,000, compared to budget, according to the report.

However, it said there was an under spend of £566,813 on staff costs, an underachievement on income of £4,879 and a £596,686 overspend on operational non-pay expenditure.

"The budget is not being used to address identified service delivery risks," the report said.

Constable Mark Labey, who sits on the home affairs scrutiny panel, said the service had "many challenges".

He said: "I think that there are going to be many cost pressures on our emergency services, not least of all the fire brigade because of the isolation issues.

"They can't gather from all the towns around them when they need extra resource, they have to have their own. It's very, very difficult."

The Minister for Justice and Home Affairs, Deputy Mary Le Hegarat, said she welcomed the "useful and in-depth audit" and a formal response would be submitted in the "coming weeks".

She said as identified in the report, additional funding has been approved for the service in the Budget 2026-2029.

The minister said there had been recent investment and the service was working through a programme of improvement.

She said: "It is acknowledged that there is more to do. Some of the recommendations made by the C&AG are already under way as part of existing work."

Le Hegarat said: "The States of Jersey Fire and Rescue Service is made up of dedicated and highly skilled people, used to responding to fast-moving and complex scenarios.

"I would reassure islanders that the Service is always there to help them in an emergency.

"I thank everyone who is part of the Service for all their continued commitment and service."

The fire service has been approached for comment.

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