Developing a National Strategy

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has consistently promoted lifelong learning projects to encourage members to brush up their Skills for Life, numeracy, literacy and information communication technology (ICT), providing learning opportunities to over 8,000 staff in the FBU and Fire and Rescue Service.  
The union's achievements in this area are nowhere more apparent than in its learning centre in Morpeth, Northumberland, where the Union Learning Fund support over the years has funded a project manager, project worker, a learning support worker, a part funded an ICT tutor and also covered the cost of half a dozen computers.

With management supplying the premises, connectivity and computer maintenance and replacement, the centre has been able to support employees from every part of the Fire & Rescue Service, as well as their families and friends. It offers a range of learning, including numeracy and literacy assessments and qualifications, computer and other IT training and even Business Management courses.

The centre received the prestigious unionlearn Quality Award and is also Matrix accredited in recognition of the high-quality information, advice and guidance on learning and skills opportunities it offers.

Trevor Shanahan, FBU ULF Project Manager said “The underpinning of Skills for Life in all learning and development will ensure that Fire and Rescue Service employees have the skills not only for their current role but in future roles. Further, it is helping to develop a better understanding of the issues surrounding workforce development and qualifications in the Fire and Rescue Service”.