Description
The Serious Violence Duty (SVD) came into effect on 31st January 2023. The Duty requires fire and rescue authorities (FRAs), police, justice agencies, health, education, and local authorities to collaborate and plan together to reduce and prevent serious violence in their local areas. The Duty applies to FRAs that operate across England and Wales although the guidance allows for the delegation of this responsibility to local fire and rescue services (FRSs).
The Duty now makes up part of statutory FRS provision. Furthermore, the Duty aligns with existing FRS legislative duties, including the current Fire and Rescue Services Act (2004) and the Duty to Collaborate as contained within The Policing and Crime Act (2017). Enhancing policies, training, data sharing and collaboration will empower FRSs to tackle serious violence while delivering core prevention, protection, and emergency response functions.
How To Use
This briefing note sets out for FRS colleagues the Duty and what is necessary to implement the Duty in their local area. It will be useful to heads of FRS departments who have a role in supporting the Duty as part of existing FRS statutory functions, as well as front line delivery staff who work within and for our communities on a day-to-day basis.
Fire and rescue services (FRSs) should consider this briefing document when planning provision for children and young people (CYP).
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