To consider the CRMP Mid-term Consultation 2025 report (CFO/11/2526).

Chief Fire Officer, Nick Searle, presented the Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP) mid-term consultation 2025 report, which set out the Authority’s plans to carry out a mid-term consultation on the 2024–27 CRMP with stakeholders. Members were advised that the consultation would run from August 2025.

Members noted that ahead of the approval of the current CRMP in 2024, the Authority had undertaken extensive engagement and consultation with staff, stakeholders and communities, whilst highlighting the 2023 His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) inspection report had identified ongoing engagement as good practice.

Members were informed that to support the mid-term review, a community engagement breakfast meeting had taken place at Service Headquarters on 29th August 2025, attended by the Chief Fire Officer. Two public focus groups were scheduled for 1st September 2025, with one being held without Service staff present in order to assess whether the absence of officers influenced the nature of feedback received. Members acknowledged that Stakeholders and staff would also be provided with an update on progress against CRMP actions, together with a QR code link to an online survey held on the Authority’s website.

Councillor Kieran Murphy asked whether there had been a public consultation, and the Chief Fire Officer explained that both stages prior to the approval of the CRMP had involved public consultation. As this was the first mid-term consultation, it was explained that it had been opened to focus groups who had contributed to the past, alongside the opportunity for the public to comment online at any time.

Councillor Jeanette Banks queried about the possibility of producing and distributing paper copies to reach the public who might not be able to access the website, and how such distribution would be decided. The Chief Fire Officer advised that while this could be considered, distributing to every property within Merseyside would involve significant cost and that the primary route for access would remain through the Authority’s website however paper copies were provided to those who request it.

Councillor Chris Page referred to page 48 of the report and requested further information on the different roles and duties of Station and Watch Managers at incidents. The Chief Fire Officer explained that while Watch Managers had traditionally been in charge of pumps, around 80% of incidents could be managed by a Crew Manager. The Service was trialling a model where Crew Managers led appliances from neighbouring stations, with a Watch Manager responding separately in a car to oversee both. Members noted that this freed Watch Managers for wider responsibilities and provided experience closer to Station Manager roles, a model already in use in other services such as West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service.

Councillor Mike Sullivan welcomed the report and proposals, commenting that it would provide an excellent progression route for officers on the career ladder, and asked that Members be kept updated.

Councillor Jeanette Banks expressed appreciation to officers for producing a clear, detailed and well-prepared report.

RESOLVED that the CRMP mid-term stakeholder consultation taking place from August 2025 be noted.