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Staff Benefits

We’re committed to giving you the support, resources, and flexibility you need to thrive at Royal Berkshire Fire & Rescue Service. Here’s a look at some of the benefits we offer our team. 

Working Hours

We’re committed to supporting a positive work-life balance which is why we offer flexible working arrangements for most of our full-time roles (37 hours per week).

We’re proud to be a family-friendly employer and actively consider job share options to help you balance your career and life commitments. You can discover all the possibilities in our flexible working hours policy.

Flexi Time

Our flexi-time scheme gives you the freedom to start early or finish late, making it easier to fit work around your life. Any extra hours you build up can be saved and used as additional leave—meaning you could enjoy up to 12 extra days off each year!

Pension Scheme

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We offer access to an excellent pension through the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS), one of the largest schemes in the UK. With employer contributions and valuable benefits, it’s a solid step towards a financially confident future.

Annual Leave

We offer generous annual leave which ranges from 25 days to 30 days, depending on your role/grade. On top of that, you’ll enjoy an average of 8 public holidays each year—plus an extra 5 days of long service leave as a thank you for your commitment.

Maternity, Paternity and Adoption Leave

We offer enhanced family leave to help you through life’s important moments. Eligible employees can enjoy up to 45 weeks of full pay maternity or adoption leave, so you can focus on welcoming your new arrival. This provides those who are eligible with up to 52 weeks full pay inclusive of annual leave, bank holidays and keeping in touch days. Plus, we provide 2 weeks of paid paternity leave to eligible employees to provide support during this special time.

Additionally, if you are undergoing fertility treatment, you will be entitled to up to 3 days paid leave per treatment cycle. Or if your partner is undergoing fertility treatment, you can apply for 1 full day or 2 half days paid leave per treatment cycle, if the treatment falls on a scheduled working day.

Annual Awards Ceremony

We’re proud to recognise the dedication and impact of our staff, volunteers, partners, and members of the public through our flagship annual awards ceremony.

The event honours a wide range of achievements from the past year and celebrates those who have dedicated 20, 30, or even 40 years to public service with the prestigious Long Service and Good Conduct Medals.

You’ll also have the chance to nominate a colleague—or be nominated yourself! —as we come together to celebrate the incredible contributions across our organisation.

Development Programme

Middle managers are at the centre of our organisation which is why we offer The Middle Manager Leadership Development Programme to help develop the skills and teamwork of our future leaders. The programme consists of 6x training days, structured around Leading Self, Leading Others and Leading the Business.

Delegates who complete all parts of the programme receive a certificate endorsed by the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) and receive a 6-month student ILM membership.

On Site Gyms

All our stations and headquarters are equipped with on-site gyms featuring a range of commercial-grade cardiovascular and resistance equipment.

Whether you’re looking to boost your fitness, de-stress after a busy day, or just squeeze in a quick workout, our gyms are here to help you stay healthy and energised—right where you work!

Relocation Allowance

If you’re required to relocate due to work commitments, you may be eligible to claim a range of expenses to help make the move easier. This can include house sale and purchase costs, removal expenses, disturbance allowance, travel and advertising costs, and even special leave to help you settle in. We’re here to support you through every step of the transition.

Professional Subscriptions

If your role at RBFRS requires a membership with a professional body, we’ve got you covered! You can claim reimbursement for your subscription or membership fees—helping you stay connected, qualified, and supported in your professional development.

Bursary Programme

We’re passionate about supporting your growth and helping you reach your full potential. That’s why we offer to cover the cost of further education that’s relevant to your role. If you’re eligible and meet the terms and conditions, we could fund up to 100% of your course fees.

Car User Scheme/Car Allowance

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For roles that require you to be an essential car user, we may provide you with an annual allowance which can be utilised for a car lease scheme. Alternatively, you may be entitled to an annual car allowance.

Cycle to Work Scheme

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Our Cycle to Work scheme helps you stay active and save money. You can get a new bike and safety equipment through a tax-free salary sacrifice arrangement—making it easier and more affordable to commute sustainably.

Parking

We provide free, secure on-site parking for your peace of mind, including designated spaces for disabled drivers. If our car park is full, you can use the top floor of the nearby IKEA car park at no cost—a short, easy walk to and from the office. For those who cycle to work, we also offer a small bike storage to keep your bike protected throughout the day.

Benenden

As part of your benefits with RBFRS, you can opt into Benenden Health at any point during your employment. Benenden offers award-winning healthcare services, including access to 24/7 helplines, expert advice, and a range of support. It’s a flexible, affordable way to look after your health and wellbeing, whenever you choose to join.

Blue Light Card

You will be eligible to sign up for a Blue Light Card – your gateway to over 15,000 discounts from major national retailers and local businesses alike. From holidays and fashion to gifts, dining, and everyday essentials, the Blue Light Card offers a wide range of savings to help you get more value from your everyday spending.

My Lifestyle

Enjoy exclusive access to our employee discount programme, My Lifestyle, where you can save on hundreds of retailers—from supermarkets and high street favourites to restaurants, travel, and more. It’s our way of helping your money go further!

Extensive Wellbeing Provisions

As a Service we are committed to the health, safety and wellbeing of our staff and both encourage and facilitate staff to look after all aspects of their health and wellbeing.

Flexible Bank Holidays

As part of our inclusive culture here, employees are welcome to request to swap designated public holidays for alternative dates that hold particular importance to their religion, culture or beliefs.

Career Break

Our Career Break Scheme gives eligible employees the opportunity to take an extended period of unpaid leave while remaining employed by the Service.

Eye Vouchers

If you are defined as a user of DSE as defined by the Health and Safety Regulations, then you may be eligible for a Specsavers eye examination voucher.