London Fire To Outsource Dispatching Operations

In a landmark move for public safety communications in the UK, London’s fire dispatching operations will be outsourced to a private company, saving up to $8 million over the life of a 10-year contract. Today the London Fire and Emergency Planning Authority awarded an operations contract to Capita plc, a UK-based company with extensive business process outsourcing experience. Under the plan, the fire service’s entire dispatching force will be transferred to Capita, who will then manage and administer the operation, including handling 999 telephone calls. In a press release the service said, “”This will ensure the best possible deal for London taxpayers and allow the Brigade to focus on its core business of putting out fires, rescuing Londoners and saving lives.” Capita already has contracts with several government clients for “emergency service mobilizing systems,” the service says. However, London will be the first fire brigade in the UK to outsource its emergency call handling. Read more about Capita’s emergency services market here.