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A demonstration for the compensation of firefighters injured in the Grenfell fire. Photo by FBU
29 Feb 2024

Grenfell firefighters compensated 20 million pounds for injuries in the 2017 high-rise fire

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The settlement of £20 million in the High Court for the claims brought by 114 firefighters injured in the Grenfell tragedy marks a significant development in addressing the aftermath of the catastrophic event, as reported by the Fire Brigade Union (FBU). 

Some of the firefighters, who responded to the blaze at Grenfell Tower on June 14, 2017, endured severe trauma, with some facing the prospect of being unable to work again due to their injuries.

The claims were brought by 114 firefighters - centered on allegations of negligence and breach of statutory duty during the firefighters' response to the fire at the 24-story block of flats in West London. The settlement, facilitated by the union representing the firefighters across the UK, acknowledges the physical and emotional toll suffered by these individuals.

The involvement of national law firm Thompsons Solicitors, supported by The Fire Brigades Union (FBU), in representing the firefighters underscores the significance and complexity of the legal proceedings surrounding the Grenfell tragedy. 

The defendants in the claim included several entities whose actions or decisions were alleged to have contributed to the severity of the Grenfell Tower fire. These entities include Arconic Architectural Products, Celotex, and Rydon Maintenance Limited, which were responsible for manufacturing the combustible cladding and designing and constructing the refurbishment to the exterior of the building.

Other defendants included the Royal Borough of Kensington, Chelsea and the London Fire Commissioner.

The involvement of these companies in the legal proceedings highlights the accountability sought for their roles in the events leading up to the fire and its devastating consequences.

 

The Grenfell Tower blaze, one of the deadliest incidents in the United Kingdom since World War II, had devastating consequences, resulting in 72 fatalities and leaving numerous residents injured and homeless. The tragedy not only caused immense loss of life but also profound physical and psychological trauma for survivors and the wider community.

The announcement of the settlement for the firefighters, following a High Court settlement earlier in the year for nearly 900 cases representing bereaved families, survivors, and affected residents, marks significant progress in addressing the aftermath of the Grenfell Tower disaster. 

 

Matt Wrack, Fire Brigades Union general secretary, said:

"The aftermath of the Grenfell Tower tragedy is a stark reminder of the systemic failings of building safety and government accountability. Firefighters, many of whom have been deeply affected by the horrors they witnessed, continue to advocate for those living in unsafe conditions.

“This was a crime of deregulation and negligence – a consequence of private profit being prioritised over public safety. Nearly seven years later, the fight for justice and change goes on. The Fire Brigades Union stands shoulder to shoulder with the victims and survivors of Grenfell Tower, and with leaseholders and campaign groups across the UK. We demand that the government takes urgent action to ensure such a disaster never recurs, and that there is meaningful accountability for a tragedy born out of disregard for human life."

 

Vincent Reynolds from the personal injury team at Thompsons Solicitors, who represented the firefighters, said:

“The Grenfell Tower fire left an indelible mark on the firefighters who responded to the call. Many bear the psychological scars of that night, struggling with trauma from the harrowing experience. Their testimonies reveal the profound personal sacrifice of showing such extraordinary courage in the face of an impossible situation.

“The incident exposed them to unimaginable scenes and sparked a deeper reflection on fire and building safety policy. Their experiences on that night and in its aftermath highlight the human element of firefighting, underscoring their commitment to their duty despite the immense risks and emotional toll.

“We hope this settlement brings closure of a sort for these firefighters, although we know that for many, the injuries will last a lifetime.”