The Fire Authority has approved changes to our On-Call service following a public consultation and detailed review of evidence.
We are now moving into the next phase of the programme, which focuses on planning and implementing these changes over time.
We understand that people want clear information about what happens next. While some details are still being developed, this page sets out what you can expect.
How the programme will be delivered
The On-Call Improvement Programme will be delivered in phases over the lifetime of our Community Risk Management Plan (2025–2030).
Phase 1: Implementation (2026)
This phase focuses on putting the Fire Authority’s decision into place.
We will:
- Speak directly with affected staff and provide individual support.
- Begin removing and reallocating On-Call fire engines as agreed.
- Begin the process of closing Great Missenden and Stokenchurch as operational fire stations.
- Ensure operational cover remains effective.
- Begin planning for future use of the affected fire station sites.
Phase 2: Improvement and development (2026–2029)
This phase focuses on strengthening and stabilising the On-Call service.
We will focus on:
- Improving the On-Call firefighter recruitment process.
- Retaining existing On-Call firefighters through better support and flexibility.
- Reviewing training to make it more accessible and effective for On-Call firefighters.
- Reviewing On-Call contracts and working arrangements.
- Improving how On-Call availability is managed across the Service.
- Investing in equipment, facilities and systems used by On-Call crews.
- Strengthening management and support for On-Call firefighters.
This work will be shaped by feedback from staff and learning from other fire and rescue services.
Phase 3: Review and future planning (2029–2030)
In the final phase, we will review how the changes have worked.
This will include:
- Assessing improvements in availability and response.
- Reviewing performance against our objectives.
- Identifying any further changes needed for future planning.
Supporting our staff
A small number of staff will be directly affected by the changes. We will carry out individual consultation with them to understand their circumstances and support them through any changes.
Our aim is to retain skills, experience, and people wherever possible.
We will continue to work with staff and representative bodies as the programme develops.
Fire stations
Great Missenden and Stokenchurch fire stations will close as operational fire stations.
These stations have not been crewed for several years, and emergency response in these areas is already provided by neighbouring stations.
No final decision has yet been made about the future use of these buildings.
Further information will be shared as plans are developed.
What will happen and when
The changes will not all happen at once.
They will be introduced in stages to ensure that:
- The Service continues to operate safely and effectively.
- Staff are supported through the changes.
- Decisions are made carefully and based on evidence.
Some timelines are still being finalised, and we will provide more detailed information as plans are confirmed.
Keeping you updated
We are committed to keeping our communities, staff, and stakeholders informed as the programme progresses.
The latest updates, including progress and key decisions, will be published on our main On-Call Improvement Programme page.
Related information
- Changes to fire engines
- Fire stations
- Improving the On-Call service