The negative impact of mainstreaming equality

Conference is concerned that the mainstreaming of the equality agenda across the
UK Fire and Rescue Service, appears to have reduced it’s priority. Whilst FRS’s still
state that they remain committed to equality issues, the reality in the workplace for our
members is quite different. The equality that is referred to by Brigade Managers is
often not reflected in the workplace and it is evident that the appropriate commitment,
education and experience, necessary to support equality outcomes are inadequate or
absent.

Discrimination cases for Women Members are increasing in numbers and promotion
and retention rates have stalled.

UK FRS’s talk about improvements in the recruitment and retention of women
however there is no clear evidence of this.

The NWC calls on the Executive Council to produce a proactive strategy to assist
Brigade/Regional Officials to set up meetings with their FRSs to raise this important
issue. These meetings should involve members of the National Women’s Committee.

The meetings should include identifying current numbers of women, the activities
FRSs are carrying out and what monitoring is taking place. The Executive Council
should gather the information collected by Officials and provide a report to the NWC
by the end of 2015.