It is intended to be a strategic forum, attended by emergency planners and where appropriate, Chief Officers representing Category 1 and Category 2 Responders.

The LRF came into effect in January 2004 in preparation for the enactment of the Civil Contingencies Act in November 2004. The LRF structure was reviewed and amended in October 2007.

The Devon, Cornwall & Isles of Scilly (DCIoS) Strategic Framework outlines the structure of the LRF and how this structure will be managed to ensure effective delivery of duties under the Civil Contingencies Act.