FIP-MO is a low-medium intensity treatment programme for male and female inpatients who have intentionally set a fire or who may pose a risk of intentional firesetting. The main aim is to increase understanding of the factors associated with firesetting and to support them in developing strategies to manage their risk of firesetting.
In exchange for the fire service’s input into the programme the team from Stevenage delivered a training programme to the fire service. The aim of this training was to improve their knowledge of mental health issues and the treatment effective for fire-setters. The training also introduced them to FIP-MO and its theoretical underpinnings. This provided a good opportunity to ‘skill share’, increasing both the quality of FIP-MO and the understanding of mental health difficulties within the fire service.
The Fire Service delivered two group sessions, which addressed fire safety and awareness. These sessions were very well received by the service users and had a significant impact. All service users reported that it helped them to acknowledge and accept the seriousness of their firesetting behaviour.
“We got to see what effect it had on the officers, like going into the fires and how it was affecting them still after so many years”Service user
The Fire Service also provided really positive feedback and are keen to roll the training out on a larger scale. They have also informed us that they are applying for an award for collaborative working based on this initiative.