Managerial and leadership implications of the retained duty system in English fire and rescue services

Abstract

TitleManagerial and leadership implications of the retained duty system in English fire and rescue services: an exploratory study Purpose: This paper explores the managerial and leadership challenges faced when managing personnel in the retained duty system (RDS) within English Fire and Rescue Services. It examines the key areas of motivation, commitment, culture, relationships, and practical management arrangements.Design/methodology/approach -This exploratory research, using primary and secondary sources, adopted a deductive approach, incorporating questionnaires, interviews, focus groups, and document analysis. Findings:The research identified issues agreed upon by both employees and managers, and as well as areas of disparity and conflict. It also highlighted matters that appear to be pivotal to the successful management of a retained duty system, and in particular the importance of how roles are deployed, and managed by senior management, as well as how employees perceive them.

Motivational implications leading to the continued commitment of volunteer firefighters

“…The study shows the importance of the connection between management understanding of the firefighter and the need to encourage membership retention through active communication and support. The paycheck for the volunteer firefighter is the continued nurturing and development of personal self-worth supporting prior findings of West and Murphy (2016), Finkelstein (2011), and Carpenter and Myers (2010. The linkage between family influences, comradery, altruism and communication between leadership and members is a vital component in continued firefighter commitment.…”

“…The development of self-satisfaction and the Development of Altruistic Feelings (Theme 3) can be built through the mentoring process when newer members are paired with senior firefighters. West and Murphy (2016), Finkelstein (2011), Carpenter and Myers (2010 and Haski-Leventhal (2009) all discuss the importance of self-satisfaction and the importance of a connection that is made when management is available to new members when they feel the need. Mentoring can provide the link between practice management and communication between senior members with knowledge and skills to pass to newer members.…”

“…Thompson and Bobo (1993) whose research found firefighters to be committed individuals who benefit from their actions and service to the community support the feelings of self-gratification. Studies show altruism as a basis for joining the fire service (West and Murphy, 2016;Perrott and Blenkarn, 2015;Finkelstein, 2011). Perrott and Blenkarn (2015) explored millennial altruism as a means to future employment.…”

Volunteer motivations in the Finnish fire service

“…While the motivations to join and continue volunteering are interrelated, they are not synonymous (West and Murphy, 2016;Chacón et al, 2007). For many volunteers a strong motivational push is in itself not enough to sustain involvement, but, for instance, a favourable climate in the organisation is needed "to satisfy personal and social functions that are at the heart of motivations" (Marta and Pozzi, 2008;p.…”

“…While there are well-documented reasons for initial engagement with the fire service, less is known about why volunteers stay (Baxter-Tomkins and Wallace, 2009). Research does suggest that social relationships, community focus and "the 'buzz' from attending incidents" play a part (West and Murphy, 2016;p. 193).…”