As a Service, we are committed to the health, safety and wellbeing of our staff and both encourage and facilitate staff to look after all aspects of their health and wellbeing. We are proud to be able to offer all staff access to the following wellbeing provisions:

A comprehensive Occupational Health service provides advice to managers on keeping their staff well and at work or supporting someone returning to work after absence. Occupational Health will also carry out routine health surveillance based on requirements of the role.

An Employee Assistance Programme enables staff to speak to a qualified counsellor 24/7, about whatever challenges they may be facing. Short term counselling can be accessed according to need either face to face, via telephone or video call. Additionally, an app and website give you access to a broad range of wellbeing information, such as articles and self-help programmes.

Private healthcare is available through Benenden Health. If you choose to join, you can get quick access to diagnostic services and treatment if the wait on the NHS is too long. A GP 24/7 helpline is also included in the membership along with a mental health helpline and physiotherapy. (This is a taxable benefit).

Our Trauma Support Team provide support to any members of staff who are exposed to difficult situations whilst carrying out their role. In a group setting this provision helps those involved talk through their experience and be signposted to further sources of support.

Blue Light Champions and Mental Health First Aiders are on hand across our workplaces, to provide a listening ear to their colleagues who may be experiencing difficulties.

All of our stations and headquarters have well equipped gyms to facilitate regular role related fitness training to ensure they meet the requirements of the role. Our onsite gyms are open to all RBFRS staff.

In-person / remote training, as well as e-learning is available to all staff and managers across a range of wellbeing topics such as mental health, nutrition and mindfulness.

An expert wellbeing team that are well informed on, and contribute to, fire and rescue service sector best practice in relation to firefighter health and wellbeing as well as knowledge of broader wellbeing topics are available to support teams and individuals with their personal wellbeing. Through a regular programme of health promotion activities we aim to raise awareness of health related issues and create a culture where everyone can thrive in the workplace.