The FBU Podcast

Tam McFarlane is joined by FBU general secretary Steve Wright, and assistant general secretary Ben Selby to discuss the 2026 pay offer. Steve and Ben give a breakdown of the offer and provide context to the negotiations the FBU has been in with the NJC, including pay reform. The electronic ballot opens 15 June, and closes 2 July.  Make your voice heard - every vote counts!

Earshot and Forensic Architecture used forensic audio analysis to investigate the killing of aid workers in Gaza, including firefighters. Their report and film, The Last Responders (2026), details evidence of what happened.  FBU National Officer, Tam McFarlane speaks with Lawrence Abu Hamdan, Director of Investigations at Earshot, and Jess Bernard, Trade Union Organiser for Palestine Solidarity Ca...

FBU national officer Tam McFarlane speaks with national officer Adam Taylor, EC member for Oxfordshire Chris Wycherley, and National Women’s Committee Secretary Robyn Richardson.  Bringing you updates on the Health and Safety Summit, the Oxfordshire ballot against cuts, and the TUC Women’s Conference.

The fire service is an all-hazards emergency service. When someone calls 999, they deserve a rapid, fully staffed, fully equipped response. Nothing less. Oxfordshire FBU members, vote YES and return your consultative ballot on industrial action before 30 March. Available on all podcast platforms.

In this special episode of the FBU podcast, national officer Adam Taylor speaks with Anne Davies, the widow of firefighter Jeff Simpson.  In 2018, Jeff was diagnosed with lung cancer and died. Anne is now fighting for a legal precedent that could see firefighters accessing regular health monitoring and compensation for occupational diseases.

FBU national officer Tam McFarlane speaks with general secretary Steve Wright, and FBU regional chair for London, Gareth Beeton, in a brand new monthly show. This months Red Notice includes updates on the Autumn Budget, the Government's decision to scrap the PFCC model, and the underfunding crisis across London.

FBU national officer Tam McFarlane speaks with general secretary Steve Wright, EC member Joe Weir, and brigade officials in a brand new monthly show. This months Red Notice includes updates on cuts in Buckinghamshire, Avon and Oxfordshire.

Fire services across the UK face unprecedented funding cuts at a time when wildfire incidents are at record highs. FBU General Secretary Steve Wright, along with Executive Council member Colin Brown, Regional Secretary Duncan Stewart-Ball, and Regional Treasurer Dave Pike, discuss the devastating impact of austerity on fire and rescue services. From station closures to appliances off the run, they...

Tam McFarlane speaks with conference delegates to break down this year's biggest debates on Labour affiliation, funding, and health & safety. Tam is joined by Harry Brant, brigade secretary for Leicestershire, and Rebekah Uden, brigade secretary for North Wales  Plus, general secretary Steve Wright with an update on the pay campaign, what’s coming up, and what can members expect by next c...

Firefighter foam is a serious health risk to firefighters and the public. Mick Tisbury from United Firefighters Union of Australia shares his knowledge and experience on campaigning for blood testing and regulations on forever chemicals in firefighting foam. Mick and Dave Hamilton have achieved remarkable success, securing presumptive legislation that provides firefighters with recognition and com...

Tam McFarlane is joined by FBU general secretary Steve Wright to discuss the 2025 pay offer. Steve Wright gives a breakdown of the offer and provides context to the negotiations the FBU has been in with the NJC. Deadline to vote is the 19th of May. Make your voice heard - every vote counts!

In the first ever episode of the FBU Podcast, host Tam McFarlane speaks to American firefighter unions in the aftermath of the devastating LA wildfires. And we're joined by Jamie Kelly, who represents firefighters in the  Hampshire and Isle of Wight fire service and by the new FBU general secretary Steve Wright - to talk about climate change, funding, pay, pensions, DECON and everything in be...