Safeguarding and Protecting Our Communities

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service have a statutory duty of care to safeguard and protect both adults and children in their communities from harm in every setting.

To meet this responsibility, we have a dedicated Persons at Heightened Risk Team, which is positioned within the Prevention Department. This specialist team works alongside colleagues from partner agencies, to respond to the growing number of safeguarding and vulnerable person referrals across Cheshire, Halton, and Warrington. Their work ensures that those most at risk receive the support they need.

A representative from the team sits on a number of safeguarding boards, both locally and nationally, on behalf of the Service and they work closely with colleagues from across the Service to help reduce fire‑related risks for individuals in the county, whose vulnerabilities may affect their ability to keep themselves or others safe.

Practical measures are also offered, such as fitting fire‑resistant letterboxes for anyone who feels they may be at risk of an arson‑related incident.

Useful links

National Fire Chiefs Council - Safeguarding

Safeguarding policy: protecting vulnerable adults

Statutory guidance on multi-agency working to help, protect and promote the welfare of children