02 October 2024

The Network Fire Service Partnership (NFSP) has awarded NEC Software Solutions (NECSWS) a contract to deliver a new hosted Command, Control and Integrated Communication System.

Under the contract — which is for six years initially with a further four years’ extension — staff and call handlers will be provided with the latest tools and real-time information they need to quickly dispatch fire appliances to incidents based on their proximity and capability, ensuring fast and effective responses to emergencies.

“Control firefighters are the start of the frontline. They play a key role in dealing with incidents – determining the scale of response and mobilising the most appropriate vehicles and equipment to tackle fires, animal rescue, chemical spills, road traffic collisions and more,” said Tony Oliver, Assistant Director of Digital Systems and Information at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service. It is therefore vital that the partnership makes the best use of technology to ensure our Control firefighters have the tools and information at their fingertips and can mobilise crews as quickly and effectively as possible.”

The fully integrated, cloud-based system will provide users the latest in Control Room solutions, increased user functionality and an improved user interface. Hosted in NEC data centres, the system will also enable improved resilience and collaboration across the partnership in the delivery of response to incidents across the seven authorities. The system will also include a live video streaming facility and a mobile application for use by officers.

“The expansion of NFSP to include Kent FRS is testimony to the way that this partnership has developed over the years and it’s great to see how our products continue to evolve and support the delivery of mission critical services across the region,” said Andy Kerr, Principal Client Director, NECSWS.

The system is due to be fully rolled out in late 2026.