Fire union warns Scotland’s fire service cuts risk lives

Concerns Over Cuts to Scotland’s Fire and Rescue Service

Further cuts to Scotland’s fire and rescue service may increase risks to communities, businesses, and homes, according to a union leader.

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) issued this warning as Finance Secretary Shona Robison prepares to present the Scottish Government’s draft budget this week.

Job Cuts and Budget Reductions

Since the formation of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service in 2013, nearly 1,250 firefighter jobs have been eliminated. This accounts for one-sixth of the workforce.

During the same period, the SFRS resource budget has seen a real-terms reduction of almost £84 million. There is also a capital backlog exceeding £800 million, with many fire stations no longer meeting standards.

Increased Response Times

Union leaders claim that response times have increased by 90 seconds, rising from under seven minutes to nearly eight and a half minutes since 2014.

Opposition to Service Delivery Review

Proposals in the SFRS ‘Service Delivery Review’ have faced opposition. The plan includes options to close stations, reduce fire cover, or cut fire appliances in various locations, including Edinburgh, Dundee, Glasgow, Lanarkshire, Inverclyde, and the Scottish Borders.

The Fire Brigades Union, local councils, and MSPs have urged the Finance Secretary to halt the cuts and provide necessary investment for firefighters to protect communities.

Union Leader’s Statement

John McKenzie, Scottish Secretary of the Fire Brigades Union, stated, “This week Shona Robison has the opportunity to do what previous Finance Secretaries have failed to do and put the safety and wellbeing of communities first.”

He added, “This Scottish budget is critical for the future of Scotland’s firefighters. We cannot take any more cuts.”

McKenzie emphasized, “Budget cuts mean fewer firefighters. Fewer firefighters mean increased response times, and increased response times mean a greater risk to public safety. In short, cuts cost lives.”

He concluded, “This budget has to deliver significantly increased funding for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.”

Government’s Response

A Scottish Government spokesperson said, “We are investing record funding in the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service in 2025-26, recognizing the vital role it plays in keeping communities safe.”

The spokesperson added, “Our investment has helped to ensure SFRS are ready and able to respond to emergency incidents – with public safety paramount.”

Decisions on the Scottish Budget will be announced on 13 January 2026.

Summary of Key Facts