More than 200 firefighters and supporters recently gathered at a rally outside the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service headquarters to protest against plans to change working hours. The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) claims that senior managers in the service are not listening to the valid concerns of the frontline workers by enforcing new 12-hour shifts. Currently, firefighters in Mid and West Wales work nine-hour day shifts and 15-hour night shifts, but the management is looking to transition to 12-hour day shifts and 12-hour night shifts, a move the union deems unjustifiable.
The union argues that the proposed change in working hours will have a detrimental impact on firefighters with childcare and other caring responsibilities. They also believe that the new shifts will take a toll on the mental and physical well-being of the workforce. FBU Mid and West Wales brigade organiser Tom Wass expressed concerns about the potential implications of the shift changes, stating that exhausting schedules could lead firefighters to leave the service. The rally attracted a significant turnout, highlighting the strong opposition among firefighters in the region.
The FBU stated that the policy to implement new shift patterns was done without consultation, despite a previous culture review highlighting senior management failings within the service. The review pointed out a ‘boys club’ culture at the top of the service, fostering fear and mistrust among the staff. Protesters at the rally waved flags and wore T-shirts with the slogan ‘Not on our watch’ to emphasise their united stand against the proposed changes. The demonstration aimed to draw attention to the importance of maintaining fair working conditions for firefighters.
Firefighters play a crucial role in ensuring public safety at all hours, and the FBU believes that imposing demanding shift patterns will not enhance public safety but rather strain the firefighters. The protest signifies the strong sentiment among firefighters in opposition to the shift changes and the management’s approach towards frontline staff concerns. The FBU called on senior management to cease their attack on firefighters’ terms and conditions and urged them to engage with the frontline workforce to address their apprehensions and grievances effectively.
Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service has been urged to rethink its decision on the shift changes and engage in meaningful consultations with the FBU to find a mutually agreeable solution. The rally outside the headquarters symbolised the unity and determination of firefighters and their advocates to safeguard their working conditions and promote a supportive work environment. The demonstration serves as a reminder of the importance of valuing the well-being and concerns of frontline workers who play a vital role in protecting communities and ensuring public safety.