Grenfell Tower: Injured firefighters have settled High Court case for a total of £20 million

The fire at the residential tower block in North Kensington, in June 2017 killed 72 people.

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Firefighters who were injured in the Grenfell Tower fire have settled High Court claims for a total of £20 million.

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) said some of the 114 firefighters involved had not been able to work again because of “severe trauma” following the blaze in June 2017.

Defendants included companies that made the tower block’s cladding and the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea and the London Fire Commissioner.

The fire at the residential tower block in North Kensington, west London, on 14th June 2017 killed 72 people.

Firefighters spraying water after the west London tower blaze. Credit: Victoria Jones/PA

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.

The blaze was the deadliest in the United Kingdom since the Second World War, resulting in 72 deaths and leaving many residents injured and homeless. The public inquiry into the blaze is expected to publish its final report this year.

Firefighters traumatised by Grenfell Tower fire to receive compensation

He added: “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."

Vincent Reynolds from the personal injury team at Thompsons Solicitors, which 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 defendants in the claims included the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea and the London Fire Commissioner. Credit: PA

He added: “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 be for a lifetime.”

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