Cost–benefit analysis of partnership working between fire and rescue and health services across England and Wales during the COVID-19 pandemic

OBJECTIVES: Fire and rescue services undertook a range of additional activities to support the National Health Service (NHS) in managing extreme service demand during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to examine the cost–benefit of partnership work between fire and rescue services and the NHS during the COVID-19 pandemic. SETTING: England and Wales. DESIGN: A cost–benefit approach was used. Data relating to resources and outcomes was accessed from a National Data Portal commissioned by the National Fire Chiefs Council to record fire and rescue service responses throughout the pandemic. Literature-based economic estimates were applied to establish the potential cost–benefit of fire and rescue services undertaking support activities. RESULTS: Fire and rescue services commonly undertook eight activities to support ambulance services and hospitals in three key areas: (1) driving ambulances, (2) provision of personal protective equipment for healthcare workers and (3) mass testing and mass vaccination. Benefits outweighed costs for all activities. Total costs were estimated at £93.26 million and total benefits were between £171.46 million and £1.10 billion. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first economic evaluation of partnership working between fire and rescue and health services during a pandemic. Findings highlight the social and economic value of co-operation between fire and rescue services and the NHS and provides important evidence for informing public sector decisions regarding the allocation of resources in future public health crises.