We take active steps in building strong, positive relationships with all members of our communities who identify as non-heterosexual and/or non-cisgender.
We are proud to consistently attend all local Pride events across our Service area, seeking to build relationships with attendees, advertise the support and services we offer within the community, and remove the barriers that are known to be feared amongst these communities, such as those fears around homophobic reactions and discrimination towards them.
We were headline sponsors for the Swindon 2019 Pride as well as leading the Bournemouth Pride parade with multiple appliances.
Our amazing internal FirePride support network is available to all members of staff and volunteers, regardless of their orientation, and we welcome allies to the network. This group contribute to Service-wide decisions, ensuring that considerations are made on all policies and procedures to make sure there are no disproportionate disadvantages.
In 2018, Stonewall reviewed a number of our policies and procedures to ensure inclusive language had been used throughout.
The chair of our network is also a member of the UK FRS LGBT network, therefore enabling us to learn from best practice across the country.