Fire engines on Seagrave Road in Fulham, west London, as firefighters tackle a blaze at London Oratory School, December 27, 2023
FIREFIGHTERS have called on Labour to pledge funding for compensation for those suffering serious work-related illnesses, including cancer, if the party is elected at the next general election.
Fire Brigades Union (FBU) general secretary Matt Wrack accused the Tory government of betraying firefighters by ignoring pleas for compensation.
The union highlighted research at the University of Central Lancashire last year that revealed firefighters suffer instances of cancer up to six times higher than the general population, and higher levels of heart, lung and other ailments.
LUKE FLETCHER outlines Plaid Cymru bold plans for wide-ranging policy consultations with trade unions in Wales
Since 2010, one in five firefighter jobs has disappeared alongside 30% funding cuts — all while climate breakdown brings record blazes and flooding. It’s time to fund our fire service properly, writes FBU general secretary STEVE WRIGHT
The FBU is demanding 52 weeks of full pay for women firefighters, highlighting the unique health risks they face — and the continuing need to recruit and retain more women if policies like this are still not in place, writes SEONA HART