Sexual Orientation is one of the protected characteristics that is defined under the Equality Act. Any discrimination based on sexual orientation is unlawful and we carry out People Impact Assessments to protect our community and staff from this. For more information around our legal duties click here.
So, what are we doing to eliminate discrimination?
Our communities
We take active steps in building strong, positive relationships with all members of our communities who identify as non-heterosexual and/or non-cisgender. This aligns with our legal duties- but we take pride in learning from and listening to our LGBTQIA+ communities; not because we have to, but because we want to.
Pride is one of our favourite celebrations of the year and we are always honoured to attend local events across our two counties. We regularly attend Pride events including Swindon and Bourne Free, where we parade with our appliances.
As well as being great fun, these events allow us to hear the voices of our LGBTQIA+ communities and share the support and services we offer. With the support of these communities, we play our part in society to remove barriers, fear of judgement or discrimination and empower everyone to be their best and true authentic self.
Within our workforce
Our amazing internal FirePride support network is available to all members of staff and volunteers regardless of sexual orientation. This group contributes to service-wide decisions, helping to ensure that a range of considerations are made on all policies. We continue to review our policies and procedures to ensure inclusive language is used as part of our People Impact Assessments.
The chair of the network is service volunteer and is also a member of the UK FRS LGBTQ+ network. His participation in this group enables us to learn from best practices across the country.