The Thames Valley Forensic Fire Investigation Unit (FFSIU) has been honoured with a nomination for the prestigious Collaboration Award at the Excellence in the Fire and Emergency Services Awards this month. This recognition comes just 18 months after the unit’s inception in March 2023.
The FFSIU represents an unparalleled partnership between Thames Valley Police, Oxfordshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service and the Fire and Rescue services of Buckinghamshire, and Royal Berkshire. Since its launch, the unit has attended over 116 fire investigations across the Thames Valley region. Its remit includes providing forensic fire investigation services for incidents suspected to involve criminal activity, serious injuries, or fatalities.
As the largest forensic fire investigation collaboration between fire services and police in the UK, the FFSIU is truly unique. It operates under a shared quality management system with Thames Valley Police, fostering a cohesive “one team” approach. The unit’s forensic contributions have already supported evidence in a number of crown and coronial cases across the Thames Valley, underscoring its critical role in delivering justice and supporting community safety.
Robust continuous professional development (CPD) initiatives further enhance this partnership. Quarterly training sessions bring together the Thames Valley fire investigation teams and Crime Scene Investigators (CSI), aligning protocols, improving consistency, and sharing costs amongst the four partners.
This collaboration brings significant partnership benefits as well as efficiencies. Thames Valley Police, working alongside the three fire and rescue services, ensures access to specialized expertise, streamlined operations, and improved outcomes in fire investigations.
Jason Hogg, Chief Constable of Thames Valley Police, said: “This nomination is a testament to the outstanding collaboration between Thames Valley Police and our fire service partners. The Thames Valley Forensic Fire Investigation Unit has set a benchmark for innovation, teamwork, and excellence in delivering justice and protecting our communities. I am incredibly proud of what this partnership has achieved in such a short time.”
Rob MacDougall, Chief Fire Officer for Oxfordshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service and Chair of the Thames Valley Collaboration Executive Group says, “The FFSIU’s nomination is a testament to the power of collaboration in tackling complex challenges. As the unit continues to pioneer new standards in forensic fire investigation, it exemplifies the spirit of partnership, efficiency, and excellence.”
