Isles of Scilly emergency services receive national recognition

We're delighted to share the findings from a recent Joint Emergency Services Interoperability Principles (JESIP) Assurance and Embedding visit to the Isles of Scilly, which took place on 22 September 2026. You can read the report from this visit in full at the link below:

CLICK HERE TO READ THE JESIP VISIT FEEDBACK REPORT

JESIP is the national programme that helps police, fire, ambulance and other emergency responders work together effectively during incidents and emergencies. This visit was a welcome opportunity for our Fire and Rescue Service to demonstrate how they and their fellow emergency service teams and partner organisations work together to keep everyone safe across the islands.

The visiting representatives from the national team described the Isles of Scilly as "one of the strongest examples of practical interoperability" they have seen, recognising the exceptional collaboration between emergency services and partner agencies across our islands. They particularly highlighted:

  • Strong and trusted relationships between agencies
  • Effective joint training and exercising
  • A shared commitment to learning and continuous improvement
  • Emergency responders working together to keep our community safe

The report recognised the unique way organisations across the Isles of Scilly work together, with responders consistently focused on achieving the best outcomes for island residents and visitors.

Chief Fire Officer, Phil Martin, said: "This report is a fantastic endorsement of the way emergency services and partner agencies work together across the Isles of Scilly. The unique challenges of delivering emergency services on our islands mean that collaboration is not just important, it is essential. What makes the Isles of Scilly special is the strong relationships, trust and shared commitment that exist across all responder organisations. The recognition from the JESIP team reflects the dedication of colleagues across our responder community, and I am incredibly proud of what we achieve together in service of our residents and visitors."

Councillor Joel Williams, Chairman of the Isles of Scilly Fire and Rescue Authority and Chairman of Council, said: “I’d like to congratulate Phil and his service for representing the Isles of Scilly Fire and Rescue Service and the wider Council so well during this visit. Interoperability is a crucial aspect of everyday island life, but it is even more important that the JESIP principles are applied effectively during incidents and emergencies. I have admired the way in which all of the emergency services work together across the islands for many years, and I’m grateful for everyone’s combined efforts to keep us all safe. My sincere thanks to all our colleagues in the ambulance service, police, HM Coastguard, airport fire service, RNLI and all partner organisations whose professionalism and teamwork made this recognition possible.”

Publishing date: 
Tuesday, 10 November, 2026