Fire and Emergency Support Service

The Fire and Emergency Support Service (FESS) is designed to meet the needs of people who have suffered damage to their homes following a fire.

The service is delivered by trained British Red Cross volunteers using a specially adapted vehicle to provide practical help and emotional support to vulnerable people affected by a domestic fire or similar incident.

This support includes:

  • Immediate temporary shelter in the FESS vehicle,
  • assistance in seeking temporary accommodation,
  • first aid/emotional support,
  • sign-posting to other organisations,
  • support with the care of children or pets,
  • use of shower and toilet facilities,
  • clothing/toiletries/light refreshments,
  • use of a telephone and camera to assist with insurance claims.

Trained British Red Cross volunteers work in co-operation with the West Midlands Fire Service and are ready to respond, particularly outside normal office hours.

The service is available;

Weekdays between 19:00hrs and 07:00hrs
Weekends from Friday 19:00hrs to Monday 07:00hrs
Bank Holidays from 19:00hrs the day before the bank holiday to 07:00hrs the day following the bank holiday

The vehicle is based at Oldbury Fire Station

To view an image of the vehicle please click here

For more information, please view the British Red Cross website or contact Daphne Kirk at daphnekirk@redcross.org.uk