UNISON has welcomed plans to boost equality and diversity in the fire and rescue service, and pledged to help build a “fire and rescue service that promotes equality at all levels and acts as an example”.
UNISON, the FBU and other unions signed a “memorandum of understanding” on the issue with the Local Government Association, the National Fire Chiefs Council and other stakeholders earlier this week.
The union represents staff across the service, including administrators, technicians, fire prevention officers and many others.
“Our members are often the most diverse part of the fire and rescue workforce,” noted UNISON national secretary Heather Wakefield.
“There is a pressing need for more diversity across the fire and rescue service, which is why we welcome the Local Government Association’s commitment to tackling inequality and improving diversity.
“We look forward to working with them and other organisations to ensure a fire and rescue service that promotes equality at all levels and acts as an example for increasing diversity in the public sector workforce.”
The memorandum aims to make sure the service is inclusive and encourages the recruitment of a diverse workforce.
