Archived decisions

THE FIRE AND RESCUE PERFORMANCE FRAMEWORK 2006/07

1. The Authority has considered a report by the Chief Officer about the Fire and Rescue Performance Framework for 2006/07. A presentation on the item has also been received. This is a new assessment process which follows on from the Comprehensive Performance Assessment process undertaken in 2005. The Framework, which is currently the subject of consultation, has been developed by the Audit Commission with the assistance of the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister.

2. The Comprehensive Performance Assessment in 2005 resulted in the Hampshire Fire and Rescue Authority being awarded a rating of `good'. The new process will involve three separate but linked areas of assessment:-

· Operational Assessment of Service Delivery

The first part of this is to address risk analysis; prevention and protection; operational preparedness; call management and incident support and emergency response. The second part will involve a review of the key performance indicators and is to consider the Service's performance against upper and lower performance thresholds. Next year, the indicators will be revised with additional ones being added.


· Use of Resources Assessment

This is designed to provide a judgement over a range of financial issues and particularly as to whether the Authority is securing good value for money.


· Direction of Travel

This is intended to show how well the Authority has performed since the Comprehensive Performance Assessment categorisation and if it is likely to continue to improve in the future.

3. Participation in the above assessment will have considerable resource implications for the Service in relation to commitment of time by staff. Whilst only at the consultation stage at present, it is clear that the process is significantly more detailed than the earlier Comprehensive Performance Assessment. Despite the considerable efforts which will be required to adequately prepare for such an assessment, it will provide an opportunity for the Authority to demonstrate its commitment to new initiatives aimed at making Hampshire a safer place to live and work.

M.F. CARTWRIGHT

Chairman

4IR070606