Issued: 31.01.08
At: 9:30am
For immediate release

Audit Commission Recognises Leicester, Leicestershire And Rutland Fire Authority As Improving

The Audit Commission has today recognised that Leicester, Leicestershire and
Rutland Combined Fire Authority is continuing to improve.

In 2005 Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Combined Fire Authority was rated as
‘Good’ in the Audit Commission’s Comprehensive Performance Assessment. In
September 2007 the Authority was again assessed by the Audit Commission to see
whether it was still improving. The assessment looked at whether the Authority had
improved outcomes for the public since the last assessment; how it has addressed
modernisation and the requirements of the national framework and it is continuing to
improve. This also included an assessment on the provision of value for money.
The Audit Commission found that:

“The authority continues to make progress……Fire deaths and injuries have
reduced..[and] compare favourably with others. With partners it is
strengthening prevention and community safety…….and has a successful
Prince’s Trust scheme for young people….Value for money is good and
corporate arrangements have been strengthened, providing a good basis for
future improvements….. Equality and diversity remains strong…the authority
is well placed to build on earlier improvements.”

Dave Webb, Chief Fire and Rescue Officer and Chief Executive Officer comments: -
‘We are obviously pleased with this official endorsement, and this judgement
that we are still continuing to improve from such a strong baseline is a real
positive reflection upon the hard work, commitment and professionalism of all
staff in helping to create safer communities. I would like to commend the
work of all members of staff in this achievement. Well done and thank you to
you all.’

There are still areas upon which we aim to improve such as refining our
approach to home fire safety checks and smoke alarm installation and usage.
However, this is part of our plans for the next few years, with a smarter
targeting campaign.’

The Authority also underwent a ‘Use of Resources’ assessment by the Audit
Commission that looks at our financial reporting, financial management, financial
standing and internal control, and a service assessment that looked at performance
indicators and last year’s standing score from the operational assurance assessment.
Once again our Use of Resources scored a very positive three, out of a possible four.

- ENDS -
Notes to News Desk

Contact Information
For more information please contact:
Corporate Communications
Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service
Tel 0116 287 2241

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