The IFE is proud to announce the launch of the Mental Health & Well-being in Fire & Emergency Services Special Interest Group (SIG), a new international network dedicated to advancing best practice, fostering collaboration, and championing positive mental health across the fire and emergency services sector.
Bringing together professionals from across the sector, the SIG will create opportunities for knowledge sharing, networking, professional development, and collaborative action. The group will officially launch with a webinar on 15 September, introducing its vision for strengthening psychological well-being throughout the global fire and emergency services community.
Attendees will learn of the SIG’s ambitious programme of work to raise awareness of the connection between well-being, safety and operational performance, as well as the group’s tools and resources, and the opportunities for international collaboration.
SIG Chair David Ware FIFireE said: “I am thrilled to see our new SIG ready to be launched. Promoting mental health and well-being has not always been at the forefront of the fire sector, a fact that we will hopefully soon remedy.
"In this sector, many professionals put both their general and mental health on the line to help others. There should always be the support needed to ensure they can reach out on an ongoing basis for the resources and information they need.”
Paul Adams, IFE CEO, added: "We are excited to see the launch of this new Special Interest Group. Good mental health is an important consideration for everyone working within the fire sector to ensure a healthy and safe working environment, including the public and fire professionals. This new IFE SIG will provide a valuable platform for collaboration, learning and embracing better mental health across our global community."
The creation of this SIG reflects the growing recognition of the importance of mental health and wellbeing within fire and emergency services. Through international collaboration, research and professional development, the group aims to support individuals and organisations in creating healthier working environments while strengthening operational effectiveness and resilience.
To book your place at the SIG’s launch, visit our events page.