Reference:
Request detail:
I am writing to submit a request under the Freedom of Information Act 2000. I would like to request information on the following matters related to the activities and procedures of the fire service.
How many callouts has the service attended for a plus size patient either in an evacuation process or to assist them with movement in their home or hospital between 1st January to 31st December in 2022 and January 1st to 31st December 2023?
For callouts involving plus-size patients, how many vehicles attend the scene?
In instances of callouts to plus-size patients, how many staff members are typically present on a vehicle?
If a callout to a plus-size patient occurs, who covers the watch during that time?
In the period of Jan to Dec 2022 and Jan to Dec 2023, did any members of staff go off from work injured due to moving a plus-size patient, if so, how many?
If a callout to assist in moving a plus-size patient happens, who is responsible for covering the associated service costs?
Does your service have equipment to facilitate and support moving a plus-size patient?
Has your service seen an increase in activity for supporting Plus-size patients?
Does your service believe there is a growing need for a service to facilitate moving plus-size patients
I understand that the information I am requesting may be extensive, and I appreciate your time and effort in providing these details. Please provide the information in an electronic format, if possible, and within the statutory 20 working days.
Response detail:
Thank you for your Freedom of Information request. Please refer below for the information requested.
How many callouts has the service attended for a plus size patient either in an evacuation process or to assist them with movement in their home or hospital between 1st January to 31st December in 2022 and January 1st to 31st December 2023?
2022 – 5 callouts
2023 – 8 callouts
For callouts involving plus-size patients, how many vehicles attend the scene?
Based on the previous 2 years between 1-4, average of 2 Vehicles
In instances of callouts to plus-size patients, how many staff members are typically present on a vehicle?
5
If a callout to a plus-size patient occurs, who covers the watch during that time?
This will be determined by the Command & Control system based on the nearest appliance. If required, fire control can call in another appliance to stand-by at the station. This will be decided at the time by the fire control mobilising officer based on demand and fire coverage.
In the period of Jan to Dec 2022 and Jan to Dec 2023, did any members of staff go off from work injured due to moving a plus-size patient, if so, how many?
No
If a callout to assist in moving a plus-size patient happens, who is responsible for covering the associated service costs?
If chargeable under FRS Act 2004, the person requesting our attendance will be responsible for covering the costs.
Does your service have equipment to facilitate and support moving a plus-size patient?
Yes
Has your service seen an increase in activity for supporting Plus-size patients?
There has been some fluctuation in the number of these incidents however there is no consistent upward trend.
Does your service believe there is a growing need for a service to facilitate moving plus-size patients
At this time the data does not suggest that the service needs to amend its policies or procedures relating to moving plus-size patients. We continue to work closely with our NHS and health partners to understand the risks and provide appropriate support within the boundaries of our statutory responsibilities.
If you are unhappy with the way your request for information has been handled, you can complain or request an internal review of the decision. This must be done within 40 working days of receiving this response. You can do this by writing to the Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service, St. Michael’s Street, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, SY1 2HJ or email: enquiries@shropshirefire.gov.uk.
If you remain dissatisfied with the handling of your request or complaint, you have a right to appeal to the Information Commissioner at:
Information Commissioner's Office
Wycliffe House
Water Lane
Wilmslow
Cheshire
SK9 5AF
Telephone: 0303 123 1113
Website: www.ico.org.uk
