Networking Women in the Fire Service

What is Networking Women in the Fire Service?

Networking Women in the Fire Service (NWFS) is a network of and for all fire service women, whether operational or not. It is a totally independent organisation voluntarily run by the women it aims to support. NWFS is the result of an original and basic need for women to communicate in the workplace. It has grown to become an independent national organisation providing networking, support and education for all women who work in the British Fire Service and more besides. It is also a source of information for employers and others concerned with making the Fire Service a place where women and men can work together harmoniously and professionally.

Who Can Belong to the NWFS?

All women working in the Fire Service, Wholetime and Retained Firefighters, Control staff, Fire Safety staff, Officers, managers and Corporate/Administrative Support staff. Membership is not barred to males, either, as long as they support the aims and objectives of the network! It has been recognised that without the support of many forward thinking and open-minded males, the network may have taken longer to establish than it has so far. Employers also have a part to play and may join and support the Network as Corporate Affiliates, thus supporting and encouraging their women employees. Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service is a Corporate Affiliate Member, fully supporting NWFS’s aims and objectives working closely with them in areas such as Fairness and Dignity Training, etc.

Mission Statement

The NWFS is established to:

Provide an independent forum within and through which women who work in the Fire Service are able to contact and support each other.
To share knowledge and experience to the common good, provide information and assistance to fire brigades and other organisations, associations, etc.
To promote fairness at work and uphold the dignity of women and men.
To promote and co-ordinate social interaction and events.

What Does the NWFS Provide?

NWFS provides networking, newsletters, conferences, seminars, regional social events, information/research, presentations, etc.

Cost

There is a cost to cover administration. Currently Full membership stands at £10 per annum for individuals and this gives full voting rights. Affiliate membership is £10 per annum.

Contacts

HFRS is in Region O and the representative is Karen Smith, Kent Fire and Rescue Service who can be contacted via e-mail at khsmith@tiscali.co.uk.

For more information visit the National NWFS website.