Thanks to everyone who filled in the survey and gave us valuable insights into what you want from the union’s magazine. You’ll see some new content and a slightly different look overall. We hope you enjoy it, and as ever, please do get in touch if you have any feedback.
UKRAINE
Much has changed since the last issue of the magazine. The war in Ukraine shocked the world, and I am proud of our members who have co-ordinated vital firefighting equipment to get to the region. These lifesaving supplies will inevitably have real impact on the ground.
We stand in solidarity with Ukrainian firefighters and other emergency service workers, who are working tirelessly in the most appalling conditions. Firefighting is a humanitarian service, and no more so is that true than in a war zone. We will continue to support humanitarian efforts and I congratulate all those who made the mission to Ukraine a success.
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Our first in person annual conference in three years takes place next month in Brighton. Officials will meet for four days to debate wide ranging resolutions on union and other matters and I am so looking forward to seeing all the delegates after so long, and not through a screen!
The next issue of Firefighter will report back on the policy decisions made at conference but keep an eye out on the union’s website and social media channels for regular updates.
EDUCATION
Speaking of in-person events, the union’s education programme is back with a bang with loads of interesting courses for all levels. Take a look at fbu.org.uk/education for more info.
COST OF LIVING
FBU annual conference comes at a time of real concern for members, with the cost of living crisis becoming increasingly real.
In one of the richest countries in the world, it is simply unfathomable that we find ourselves in this position.
The government must do more to keep fuel and energy costs down, and pay our key workers what they truly deserve. We know how hard this is hitting and we are here to support you. In the upcoming pay discussions we will be fighting hard for a pay rise that considers the rising costs of our basic services. We’ll be organising members to attend a national demo on Saturday 18 June in Parliament Square, London, to make our voices heard. Join us.
DID YOU KNOW......
Firefighters in England rescued 2,500 people from flooding last year, and 1,500 the year before.
