University of Central Lancashire academic Dr Carolina Campodonico is carrying out the independent research
A ground-breaking new research project into firefighter mental health has launched today, aiming to survey firefighters across the UK.
This first-of-its-kind survey will identify how firefighters’ mental health is impacted by their work, what workplace support is on offer, and what is needed to improve mental health across the service.
Despite the demanding nature of the profession, there is currently no standardised guidance or mental health support specific to firefighters in the UK.
The research is being independently carried out by the University of Central Lancashire, led by Dr Carolina Campodonico, and has been commissioned by the Fire Brigades Union.
With a target of gathering 10,000 responses, all serving firefighters are encouraged to take part by completing the online survey.
"This is a vital opportunity for all serving firefighters to have their voices heard while remaining anonymous"
— Dr Carolina Campodonico, Senior Lecturer in Clinical Psychology at the University of Central Lancashire
Dr Carolina Campodonico, Senior Lecturer in Clinical Psychology at the University of Central Lancashire, said: “Firefighters across the UK face immense physical and emotional demands, yet mental health support remains inconsistent and underutilised.
“This is a vital opportunity for all serving firefighters to have their voices heard while remaining anonymous. Similar surveys have driven real change in countries like the US, Canada, and Australia, where national policies have strengthened support for first responders. We need to ensure UK firefighters receive the same level of commitment to their mental well-being.
“Our research is independent, shaped by the needs of the fire service community, and aims to provide clear, evidence-based recommendations to improve mental health support. Every firefighter who takes part will be helping to create meaningful change - now is the time to speak up."
"Firefighters are being let down by patchy and inconsistent support, without standard policies"
— Steve Wright, Fire Brigades Union General Secretary
Steve Wright, Fire Brigades Union General Secretary, said: “We’re calling on all serving firefighters in the UK to take part in this ground-breaking research into firefighter mental health. Firefighting is an intensive and highly skilled profession, and every day we hear from firefighters who are facing increasing and preventable pressures at work.
“Firefighters are being let down by patchy and inconsistent support, without standard policies.
“We need firefighters across the UK to take this survey and help build a clearer picture of how fire and rescue services can better support the frontline. Together we are determined to improve mental health in our service.”