As a Service, we are passionate about changing and saving lives, and we want to make a difference to the communities we serve.
We know that performance at work is not just about what we do (our technical competence) or what we know (our knowledge and experience), but is also about our culture (how we do things around here).
Our working culture is made up of our systems, structures, working practices and a whole host of variables – all of which centre around our shared values.
We have developed the RESPECT framework so that all staff, volunteers and Fire and Rescue Authority members understand what is expected of them:
RESPONSIBILITY
This is about:
- Taking responsibility for your actions, behaviours and decisions.
- Being honest and assertive.
- Doing your best and doing things in the right way.
And for leaders and managers, it also means…
- Promoting and developing leadership at all organisational levels, not just the top.
EQUALITY
This is about:
- Being fair and ethical, and knowing yourself.
- Respecting and valuing differences.
- Challenging unacceptable behaviour.
And for leaders and managers, it also means…
- Embracing diversity and innovation, and being open to alternative views.
SUPPORT
This is about:
- Working effectively with others.
- Being sensitive to others’ feelings and wellbeing.
- Giving and receiving feedback.
And for leaders and managers, it also means…
- Demonstrating and promoting compassion, with a focus on improvement and accountability.
PROFESSIONALISM
This is about:
- Being credible, confident and having impact.
- Understanding the context you’re working in.
- Working effectively with your stakeholders.
And for leaders and managers, it also means…
- Being in the present but also horizon-scanning and leading across boundaries.
EXCELLENCE
This is about:
- Having a ‘one team’ approach.
- Being flexible and adaptable.
- Doing your best and helping others to do the same.
And for leaders and managers, it also means…
- Using high levels of emotional intelligence to influence and achieve shared missions or goals.
COMMUNICATION
This is about:
- Delivering messages effectively.
- Listening to others and checking understanding.
- Being positive and committed.
And for leaders and managers, it also means…
- Creating a compelling vision and taking people with you.
TRANSFORMATION
This is about:
- Being open to change and new thinking.
- Adapting ways of working.
- Challenging the status quo.
And for leaders and managers, it also means…
- Acting as an ambassador for change through your own practice, and by creating and sustaining a learning environment.
To view the full RESPECT framework, click here.
Code of Ethics
In May 2021, the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), Local Government Association (LGA) and Association of Police and Crime Commissioners (APCC) published the Core Code of Ethics for Fire and Rescue Services. DWFRS is fully signed up to the code, which sets out five ethical principles as a basis for promoting good behaviour and challenging inappropriate behaviour. In short “helping every member of the Fire and Rescue Service to act in the right way in their service to the public.”