Wholetime Firefighter Benefits

As a wholetime Firefighter you will work a 42-hour week across four shifts: two days followed by two nights. After this, you’ll enjoy four days off before the pattern begins again.

As a wholetime Firefighter, you can enjoy a generous leave package designed to help you rest and recharge. This includes 20 days of annual leave, in addition to eight public holidays each year. After five years of continuous service, you’ll receive an extra three days of long service leave as a thank you for your commitment and dedication.

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 two 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.

Middle managers are at the centre of our organisation which is why we offer The Middle Manager Leadership Development Programme, subject to eligibility, 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.

We’re proud to recognise the dedication and impact of our staff 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 of continuous service with the 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 service.

All of our fire stations and our 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!

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

The Fire Fighters Charity is here to support you and your immediate family, providing guidance and assistance whenever you need it. There are plenty of ways to get involved — from attending events and donating, to joining the prize draw and more! Discover more on their website.

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.

If you meet the eligibility criteria, you may qualify for a monthly Continual Professional Development (CPD) payment.

You may also be eligible for monthly ARA payments upon successful completion of the required course for each individual ARA.

Wherever you’re based, you’ll benefit from free onsite parking at our Stations — and at our headquarters whenever you’re visiting!

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!

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. Find out more.

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.