Faz Patel, who has dedicated more than 20 years to Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS), has been shortlisted for the Excellence in Fire & Emergency Awards 2026 in the category recognising the most influential person from an ethnic minority background within the UK Fire and Rescue Service. The awards ceremony is due to take place at the end of November 2026.
Throughout his career, Faz has made a significant contribution to community safety, inclusion and engagement, developing innovative initiatives designed to protect lives and strengthen relationships between the fire service and communities across Lancashire and beyond.
Among his achievements is the development of the award winning Safety During Hajj package, which provides essential fire and community safety advice to pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia. The initiative has received national recognition and demonstrates his commitment to making safety information accessible and relevant to the communities it serves.
Faz has also developed other innovative safety initiatives that have received recognition and awards. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he supported vaccination centres, contributing to the wider public health response during a challenging period.
Beyond his professional responsibilities, Faz has devoted more than 35 years to voluntary and charitable work, supporting community initiatives, building stronger communities and helping people from different backgrounds. Having worked in the public sector throughout his career, he remains passionate about public service and making a positive difference to people’s lives.
The Excellence in Fire & Emergency Awards celebrate achievement, innovation and dedication across the UK’s fire and emergency services, recognising individuals who make a meaningful difference to their organisations and communities.
This latest shortlisting represents another milestone in Faz’s long standing commitment to public service. He will also be recognised this year for his long service to Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, marking more than two decades of professional dedication alongside over three decades of voluntary community work.
