The membership includes staff working as brigade managers, area managers, and equivalent level. The branch was previously called the Association of Principal Fire Officers and will now be called the Fire Leaders Association (FLA).

Just over 18 months ago the members voted, by an overwhelming 89%, to become part of Prospect.

The aim of rebranding, which took effect at the start of 2018, is to better reflect the breadth of membership.

Prospect National Official David Luxton said: “The aim of the FLA remains to represent and promote the interests of Fire & Rescue Service strategic leaders individually and collectively on pay, pensions, and conditions of service matters, and to provide individual advice, support and representation on discipline, and legal matters.”

The Association is recognised by the Home Office, Fire and Rescue Authorities and other stakeholders as the representative body for strategic leaders. It has a network of regional and national officers and can be called upon for collective consultation, negotiation and individual representation.

Experienced advisors and negotiators within Prospect are available for members of the FLA for legal advice, and pension expertise.