- Careers
- Staff Benefits
At Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service our people are at the heart of everything we do. Our benefits package reflects our values by supporting your wellbeing, recognising your contribution, encouraging development and helping you achieve a healthy work–life balance while serving our communities.
Maternity, paternity and adoptionEnhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay is available, subject to qualifying criteria. Staff are entitled to 45 weeks maternity leave on full pay.
Family friendly workforceThe Service recognises the importance of family life and we offer flexible, family friendly benefits for employees to ensure a healthy work life balance.
Access to Occupational Health for health and wellbeingThe on-site Occupational Health Unit provides access to resources to help you stay well. As a mindful employer we are positive about mental health and have signed up to the mental health at work commitment
Annual LeaveFire staff will have a minimum basic entitlement of 26 days, plus eight bank holiday days. This Increases to 31 days after five years of service. Operational leave differs depending on the duty system.
Free parkingThe Service provides free parking at Headquarters and fire stations. Electric chargers are available for service vehicles.
On-site restaurantOur restaurant at headquarters provides hot and cold breakfast items and lunch options.
Learning and DevelopmentThere are opportunities for staff to further develop in their roles and pursue training, leadership and development pathways and qualifications. This includes offering apprenticeships and degrees to staff at all levels.
Employee ‘STAR’ recognition schemeThe annual STAR Awards ceremony recognises individuals or teams who have gone that extra mile or demonstrated exceptional commitment to the Service and our communities. |
Long service and good conduct awardStaff who have completed either 20, 30 or 40 year’s of service (subject to qualifying criteria) are invited to an annual ceremony to celebrate their long service and good conduct achievement.
Continuous serviceExisting local government or Fire Service employees who transfer into the Service without a break in employment will retain their continuous service.
Blue light cardMembers of the UK Emergency Services, NHS and armed forces staff can apply for a Blue Light Card, which provides access to many online discounts and promotional offers.
Pension SchemeAll staff are eligible for enrolment in the scheme, which includes a generous employer contribution for members.
Union MembershipThe Service recognises Unison, the Fire Brigades Union (FBU), the Fire and Rescue Service Association (FRSA) and the Fire Officers Association (FOA) as negotiating partners.
Free gym access and leisure centre discountStaff can access free of charge gym facilities across our fire stations and are eligible for a corporate discounted membership at selected leisure centres.
Sports and social clubsA wide range of sports and social clubs can be accessed through the Service.
Staff networksThe Service has several established network groups, including:
Armed Forces Network
Divergence - neurodiversity network
Firepride - LGBT network
Limitless - women’s network
REACH - Race, Equality and Cultural Heritage network
Cycle to workA cycle to work scheme is available to all staff.
Eye test voucherEmployees are eligible for free eye tests, which also includes a discount towards glasses.
Flu VaccinationEmployees can claim back a fixed amount towards the cost of their flu vaccinations.
Fire Fighters CharityHelping everyday heroes recover their lives by supporting their physical health, mental health and social wellbeing. All Service employees including their family members are eligible.