The October meeting of the Cumbria Police, Fire & Crime Panel took place in Penrith and focused on prevention, community safety and the financial position of the Police, Fire and Rescue services for the first quarter of 2025/26.
Cumbria Fire & Rescue – Prevention and Protection
The Panel received an update on how Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service (CFRS) is delivering on the Police, Fire & Crime Plan priorities “Focusing on Prevention to Protect Cumbria” and “Protecting Vulnerable People and Communities.”
- CFRS carries out over 8,000 Home Fire Safety Visits a year, putting it in the top quartile nationally – almost double the UK average.
- Around 78% of visits are to people classed as vulnerable (older, isolated, or with health or social-care needs).
- The service works with local councils, NHS and voluntary groups to identify those most at risk.
- It also follows the National Fire Chiefs Council campaign calendar, and recent work included fire-safety sessions at university freshers’ fairs.
- Following the Kirkby Lonsdale fire (December 2024), CFRS coordinated support for residents and businesses affected, with targeted follow-up safety visits.
Victim Support Services
The Panel discussed the Commissioner’s commissioned services for Victim Support. The report included several real case studies showing the value of early intervention — including victims of domestic abuse (ISVA and CHIDVA services).
Funding for this work comes via the Home Office under the Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act 2004. The service continues to offer tailored help across Cumbria with no major risks or legal issues identified.
Finance Reports – Quarter 1 (2025/26)
Police, Fire & Crime Commissioner (PFCC) and Constabulary
- Group revenue budget underspend £0.486 m (0.34%).
- Constabulary underspend £0.463 m (0.28%), mainly due to staff vacancies and increased income.
- Police Staff Pay underspent £0.8 m (2.6%) because of delays in recruitment.
- PCSO numbers are being increased by 12 to meet national pledges.
- Investment balance rose sharply to £16.1 m (from £6.2 m in March).
- Emerging pressures include forensic and legal costs and “dangerous dogs” enforcement.
Fire & Rescue Authority
- Revenue budget £30.7 m, with a forecast underspend £0.205 m (0.67%).
- Pay award slightly above budget (3.2% vs 2.8%), offset by savings on borrowing and higher investment income.
- Capital budget £6.8 m, with £0.6 m spent in Q1.
- Investment balance £21.2 m earning 4.33%.
- Result: use of reserves reduced from £306 k to £100 k — leaving the service in a sustainable position.
Complaints
No new complaints had been received since the July meeting. The Panel reaffirmed the procedures adopted in 2023 under the national Complaints and Misconduct Regulations 2012 to ensure transparency and fairness in handling any issues concerning the Commissioner.
Panel Update and Work Programme
The Panel reviewed its work programme and confirmed upcoming topics:
- Quarter 2 financial reports (January 2026)
- The 2026/27 Budget and Precept
- Continued focus on “Making Best Use of Resources” and “Providing Visible and Accessible Services”
- Engagement with CALC and exploration of AI and technology in policing
The next meeting will be in Kendal Town Hall on 30 January 2026.
Full papers for the meeting are here:
https://westmorlandandfurness.moderngov.co.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=330&MId=14035&Ver=4
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