Neil Odin MBA MIoD GIFireE
Executive Chair, United Kingdom Rescue Organisation
I am delighted to introduce the United Kingdom Rescue Organisation’s (UKRO) new business plan. As a fast moving, dynamic organisation, UKRO is dedicated to advancing professional rescue to its pinnacle. Currently focusing on five rescue areas including vehicle extrication; trauma management; rope rescue; Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) and water rescue, UKRO’s aim is to develop, enhance and promote the rescue capabilities of rescue and trauma professionals to ultimately reduce unintentional injuries and deaths that can result from these types of incidents.
As a member of the World Rescue Organisation (WRO), UKRO is also able to influence the rescue agenda at an international level by sharing the experiences, knowledge and expertise of technical rescue that has been developed within the UK with international colleagues.
In addition to this, UKRO’s successful International Development Programme (IDP) has allowed the organisation to forge close links and develop strong relationships with countries around the world enabling it to help and assist these countries to develop and improve their own rescue capabilities.
UKRO is able to influence the rescue agenda at an international level by sharing the experiences, knowledge and expertise of technical rescue
As a result of this extensive international work, UKRO is now working alongside the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the European based Global Road Safety Partnership where it provides advice and guidance to various aspects of technical rescue.
It is an exciting time for the UKRO. New opportunities are emerging to build upon the excellent work done up to this point; this includes better integration of preventing incidents, an improved industry research and development offer and further enhancing the ‘all year round’ availability of UKRO expertise, products and activities.
The financial climate cannot be overlooked though, particularly as UKRO exists through the efforts of volunteers and the support of UK fire and rescue services and of course our sponsors from industry. That is why it is vital the organisation works towards creating a viable and sustainable financial future so that it can continue its valuable contribution to improving rescue standards.
The hard work and commitment of all those involved with UKRO cannot be underestimated and I am incredibly proud to lead such a special organisation.