The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has raised concerns ahead of the Scottish Government’s draft budget, warning that continued reductions in funding for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) could increase risks to communities, businesses and homes.

According to the FBU, since the formation of the SFRS in 2013 nearly 1,250 firefighter posts have been lost, representing around one sixth of the workforce. Over the same period, the service’s resource budget has reduced by almost £84 million in real terms, alongside a reported capital maintenance backlog exceeding £800 million, leaving a number of fire stations no longer fit for purpose. The union also states that average response times have increased by approximately 90 seconds since 2014.

Proposals set out in the SFRS Service Delivery Review, including potential station closures, reductions in fire cover and appliance numbers in several areas across Scotland, have prompted opposition from the FBU, local authorities and MSPs, who are calling for increased investment to maintain effective fire and rescue provision and community safety.

John McKenzie, Scottish Secretary of the Fire Brigades Union said, “This week Shona Robison has the opportunity to do what previous Finance Secretaries have failed to do and put the safety and wellbeing of communities first.

“This Scottish budget is critical for the future of Scotland’s firefighters. We cannot take any more cuts.

“It is really quite simple, budget cuts mean fewer firefighters, fewer firefighters mean increased response times and increased response times mean there is a greater risk to public safety. In short, cuts cost lives.

“This budget has to deliver significantly increased funding for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.”

A Scottish Government spokesperson said: “We are investing record funding in the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service in 2025-26, recognising the vital role it plays in keeping communities safe.

“Our investment has helped to ensure SFRS are ready and able to respond to emergency incidents, with public safety paramount.

“Decisions on the Scottish Budget will be laid out on 13 January 2026.”

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