Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service is committed to meeting the diverse needs of the communities we serve. We create an inclusive work environment, where our staff feel safe, supported, are valued; enabling us to provide the highest quality service.
We recognise that equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) must be at the heart of our day-to-day service delivery. We understand that the production of our policies and procedures, recruitment, training & development and retention of our staff are key aspects of mainstreaming the importance of this area.
Our equality objectives
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion is important to us and links to the core code of ethics. We are committed to providing a culture of equality, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our work and in our services to the community.
In line with the responsibilities placed on us by the Equality Act 2010, we set and publish equality objectives every four years, which help us to focus our equality priorities and drive and deliver improvements.
Core Code of Ethics
The Core Code of Ethics for Fire and Rescue Services in England sets out five ethical principles, which provide a basis for promoting good behaviour and challenging inappropriate behaviour. The Service is committed to the ethical principles of the Code.
Putting our communities first
We put the interest of the public, the community and service users first.
Integrity
We act with integrity including being open, honest and consistent in everything we do.
Dignity and respect
We make decisions objectively based on evidence, without discrimination or bias.
Leadership
As positive role models, we are accountable for everything we do and challenge all behaviour that falls short of the highest standards.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
We stand against all forms of discrimination, create equal opportunities, promote equality, foster good relations and celebrate difference.
Positive Action
Positive action is a range of lawful initiatives to improve equality for people who share a protected characteristic, through reducing disadvantages, meeting the differing needs and increasing participation. Proportionate action can be taken when there is evidence of under representation or that a barrier exists.
Using positive action to increase representation within HWFRS is beneficial to us all. As well as enabling us to recruit from a wider pool of talented, skilled people to create a more forward thinking, inclusive and positive working environment, it helps us to understand the diverse needs of the communities we serve.
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service does not advocate or use positive discrimination, such as recruiting individuals because they have a protected characteristic. All our applicants go through the same selection processes and all employees are appointed solely on merit.
Positive Action Statement of Intent
The positive action statement of intent outlines how we will utilise positive action principles to encourage under-represented groups to engage with recruitment, career progression or prevention activities. A copy can be found here.
Equality and Gender Pay Gap Reporting
Here is our current report which details our workforce diversity data, gender pay gap information and progress against our equality objectives:
Here are copies of our previous reports:
Contact us
Feedback about equality and diversity is important to us. If you would like to comment on our equality objectives or want to know more, you can contact us as below.
Write to:
Head of HR & Development
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service
Headquarters
Hindlip Park
Worcester
WR3 8SP
Tel: 01905 368 355