Mental health research 'vital' for firefighters

A union has commissioned "vital" research into the mental health of firefighters and how it affects their work.

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) said despite the demanding nature of the profession, there was no standardised guidance or mental health support specific to firefighters in the UK.

The research, which has been commissioned by the FBU, is being carried out by the University of Central Lancashire, led by Dr Carolina Campodonico, with the aim of surveying 10,000 firefighters.

Dr Campodonico said: "Firefighters across the UK face immense physical and emotional demands, yet mental health support remains inconsistent and underutilised."

She said: "This is a vital opportunity for all serving firefighters to have their voices heard while remaining anonymous.

"Similar surveys have driven real change in countries like the US, Canada, and Australia, where national policies have strengthened support for first responders."

She said UK firefighters should "receive the same level of commitment to their mental well-being".

"Our research is independent, shaped by the needs of the fire service community, and aims to provide clear, evidence-based recommendations to improve mental health support.

"Every firefighter who takes part will be helping to create meaningful change - now is the time to speak up."

Steve Wright, FBU general secretary, said: "We're calling on all serving firefighters in the UK to take part in this ground-breaking research into firefighter mental health.

"Firefighting is an intensive and highly skilled profession, and every day we hear from firefighters who are facing increasing and preventable pressures at work.

"Firefighters are being let down by patchy and inconsistent support, without standard policies.

"We need firefighters across the UK to take this survey and help build a clearer picture of how fire and rescue services can better support the front line.

"Together we are determined to improve mental health in our service."

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