Staff network groups

The experiences of under represented in the workplace can differ significantly from others. Our networks  provide peer support and bring individuals with similar experiences together. Beyond this, the networks can play a significant role in organisational change and raise awareness of different issues. They can influence policy, bring in new ways of doing things and help us engage more effectively with our diverse communities.

The FireINSPIRE network seeks to drive gender equality and provides a forum for HWIFRS employees to share their experiences, ideas and seek or provide peer support; with the aim to improve working life across Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service.
The group provides an opportunity to raise awareness of, or discuss highlighted issues, and instigate change within the organisation.

To date the network has hosted events to recognise and celebrate both Women and Mens International Days, support regional and national campaigns to promote focused health and wellbeing support and generally seek to work alongside our colleagues in creating a better place to work, where we all aspire to embed gender equality.

FireABLE is a network which covers disability, mental health and dyslexia. The network gives a collective voice on issues relating to these areas and enables staff to share experiences and provide mutual support. The group also informs policies and raises awareness of disabilities, mental health and dyslexia.

Two sub groups of the network have also been set up, mental health working group and dyslexia working group. This enables us to focus on these areas, as they have been identified as the most prevalent in the Service

.

The fireOUT network group provides a friendly and safe forum for employees who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, and their straight allies. We aim to provide support to people, and their families, whilst promoting best practice throughout the organisation.

FireREACH is a network which primarily focuses on religion, ethnicity and cultural heritage. It provides opportunities for individuals within the Service to come together, share ideas, provide peer support to one another and drive Service improvements.

The group has around 20 members consisting of both operational and support staff. They meet regularly and discuss opportunities to improve our current practices. This includes attraction, retention and development and considering how we can better engage/build links with different communities. The group also influences and supports our employment strategies, policy development, procedures and practices in relation to race equality.

The network celebrates and supports a wide range of religious events in the community such as; Eid, Vaisakhi, Diwali and Christmas and Chinese New Year.