Inspection of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service West Service Delivery Area

11. It was satisfying to inspect the WSDA. We found, in general, that the area is well managed and that there is a high level of engagement and motivation among staff to provide the best service for the communities they serve, in a safe, efficient and effective manner. Inevitably we found dissatisfaction and discord, but we judge that this was in part due to frustration caused by a reduction in resources and continuing financial challenges. It is commendable that we found a high level of motivation in the WSDA despite the challenges to the Service and that high performance is an aspiration at all levels.

12. We are satisfied with many aspects of the performance of the SFRS within the WSDA. In particular, we found a Good understanding of the risk within the area and that there is good engagement with partners and community planning. There is good evidence of keeping the public safe and secure through prevention and protection activity as well as planning and responding to incidents. However, there are issues that we believe require improvement and as such we deemed these aspects Satisfactory. We found evidence of some good people management but also many instances of where improvement could be explored or made. Although not exhaustive, we consider that there is Opportunity for Improvement in the areas of training, assurance, development, engagement, communication as well as recruitment and retention.

13. The Inspection team would like to offer our thanks to Stephen Wright, the WSDA DACO, and his staff, who positively engaged and worked with us during this inspection. Likewise, we would also thank all internal and external partners for their contribution and feedback throughout this process.