HMICFRS close accelerated cause of concern and report Service has “made welcome progress” 

His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) have today (5 September) published a letter, recognising improvements made by Avon Fire & Rescue Service since their initial inspection in May 2023. 

The revisit focused on progress against two causes of concern: the Service’s risk information process and prevention activity. A separate cause of concern relating to culture was not part of this re-inspection and will be reviewed during the full inspection next year. 

Following the re-visit, HMICFRS announced that the accelerated cause of concern relating to the risk information process has been closed. The letter states: “We recognise the considerable work that the Service has carried out to support these improvements. As a result, we have closed this accelerated cause of concern”. 

Regarding prevention, HMICFRS closed a further three of the six recommendations in this area, meaning that five are now closed. The letter reads: “The prevention team should be praised for its efforts to improve the overall prevention services it offers. It has made good progress to address the outstanding recommendations”.  

One recommendation remains, focusing on reviewing the resources available for prevention activity.  

Following the publication of the letter, Chief Fire Officer Matt Cook said: “Every day, I see the dedication, care, and determination of our staff to make our Service stronger and safer for everyone. This isn’t just about meeting inspection standards, it’s about making sure we are looking after each other and providing the best possible service to our communities. 

“I’m pleased the Inspectorate has recognised our progress, especially the improvements to our risk information systems, which are already helping our firefighters, control operations and officers respond effectively when it matters most.  

“We’ve also made real strides in prevention, helping people stay safe and supported in their homes and workplaces. There is always more to do, and I’m committed to ensuring our teams have the resources they need to continue improving. 

“As we prepare for the next inspection, I want local people to know that your safety is our absolute priority. By working together as a Service, we will continue to strengthen our support for staff, build on our progress and ensure we provide the best possible service to our communities every single day.” 

The Service was originally inspected by HMICFRS in May 2023 over seven weeks and have carried out reinspection’s in December 2023, March 2024, September 2024, and most recently, July 2025. 

During the latest revisit, HMICFRS interviewed staff who were responsible for developing the action plan, including senior leaders as well as managers and staff across the Service involved in the risk information process and prevention. 

The next full inspection will take place in January 2026 as a part of the 2025/27 round of inspections for all fire and rescue services. This inspection will review progress against the remaining causes of concern, in prevention and culture, as well as the as the associated recommendations and the areas for improvement that were previously issued. They will also evaluate the Services’ effectiveness, efficiency and how it looks after its people. The inspection will also focus on the service provided to the public.