Cabinet receives update on Fire Safety across Kirklees Council housing
At their meeting on Tuesday 26 September, Kirklees Council’s Cabinet approved the next phases of the tenant safety programme, which covers the council’s housing stock.
Members were provided with an update on the council’s ongoing efforts to maintain high safety standards for tenants and leaseholders.
The council is on track with fire safety improvements and is scheduled to complete the majority of the fire safety remedial works in high-rise buildings by the end of November 2023, with work on automatic opening vents expected to complete at the end of February 2024.
Design and delivery phases for safety works in six-storey buildings are also underway. These works are part of the council’s commitment to fire safety. The council has also supported tenants in becoming confident in their understanding of their responsibilities around fire safety.
Person-Centred Fire Risk Assessments (PCFRAs) have been introduced to identify residents at higher risk from fire, making sure that safety measures are tailored to the individual needs of tenants. The development of Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) will futher customise safety solutions for tenants with specific needs.
A fire safety newsletter and planned drop-in sessions for tenants in retirement living schemes, six-storey and high-rise buildings aims to keep residents informed and provide a platform for them to express any concerns.
Kirklees Council continues to build strong partnerships in the community and works closely with West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service to improve safety protocols. The council has also introduced Fire Safety Champions; these champions will work closely with tenants, whose feedback has been crucial in shaping the council’s safety measures.
Councillor Masood Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Housing, said:
“Tenant safety is our number one priority and we recognise our responsibility to our tenants and leaseholders. The initiatives outlined reinforce our commitment to safety and highlight the importance of tenant involvement in shaping our approach. I encourage all residents to get involved with our Tenant Involvement Team and to support the council with implementing this essential work.”
Tenants and leaseholders are encouraged to get involved with the council’s Tenant Involvement Team with any comments, suggestions or improvements at hn.getinvolved@kirklees.gov.uk.