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Fire service workplace culture deemed 'inadequate'

DWFS A firefighter wearing fireproof brown trousers, a hi-vis yellow jacket and a yellow helmet. They are returning kit back into the side of a parked fire engine, which has it's shutters pulled up. DWFS
The fire service say they will use the report's findings as an "opportunity for improvement"

A fire service's workplace culture has been deemed 'inadequate' following an investigation into claims of racist jokes, misogyny, and a lack of respect.

In the report from His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS), Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue (DWFRS) were commended for their swift response to emergencies.

However, several examples were found of workplace discrimination, inappropriate language, and an overall lack of disciplinary action.

The fire service said "meaningful progress" has already been made towards achieving "a safer, more inclusive environment for all".

'Inappropriate conduct'

Racist jokes described as "banter" had been shared on message platforms and an "inappropriate" display picture was used for work-related group chats.

The investigation also reported several instances of sexism and misogyny among staff.

During a training exercise, a male firefighter objected to three female firefighters being on his team of four, as he believed "they would not be strong enough to carry out the task".

Getty Images The back of a female firefighter, wearing a black uniform with hi-vis strips and the word 'Fire' written in reflective material. She is wearing a yellow safety helmet, with a brown ponytail coming out the back. She is looking towards a fire engine, where a group of male firefighters are standing, wearing the same uniform.Getty Images
The independent review found an "underlying culture of misogyny and sexism" at the fire service

In 2023, an independent review found dozens of Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue (DWFRS) employees had been aware of this inappropriate behaviour.

The latest report echoed: "Firefighters made it clear that they wouldn’t work on some watches due to the negativity they had experienced or heard."

However, staff who witnessed discrimination or felt "bullied" reportedly did not raise their concerns, due to "limited confidence in the process".

It stated: "Staff don’t feel the grievance process is robust enough to protect them from reprisal, and feel that the service will try to suppress the issue."

'Meaningful progress'

A spokesperson for DWFRS said: "The inspection process is a valuable opportunity for the service to learn and improve, and we welcome the scrutiny and accountability it brings.

"Our commitment to providing the best possible service to our communities, working alongside our partners, remains at the forefront of our priorities, and we will use the report’s findings as an opportunity to keep improving.

"We have already made meaningful progress and will continue to build on this to ensure we are always working toward a safer, more inclusive environment for all."

The service's progress in light of these observations will be "closely monitored" by HMICFRS.

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