Our four staff network groups play an important role in supporting our people across Hampshire and Isle of Wight.
The individuals involved with the FirePROUD, FireINSPIRE, FireENABLE and FireREACH groups, go above and beyond to provide a valuable platform for promoting diversity and inclusion across HIWFRS.
Providing a safe space for colleagues to share experiences, ideas, and to promote a culture of inclusion within our service, the four groups were first launched back in 2017.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion business partner, Ieuan Grainger said:
“We are extremely proud of the role our networks play in raising awareness and implementing change across our organisation and out in our diverse communities.
“The people that make up our four network groups are dedicated to improving our workplace, supporting our people and showcasing our organisation as a positive and inclusive place to work.
“It is so important that we offer a platform for our teams to meet and discuss shared experiences so that we can better understand who our people are, and what they have gone through.”
FirePROUD is our LGBTQ+ and allies network group, who help to create a safe and supportive space for our colleagues through their community meetings.
They work with our crews and get out to meet the public by attending the various Pride events that take place across Hampshire and Isle of Wight.
Our FireINSPIRE,network focuses on gender equality. From Menopause awareness to the Men’s Forum, FireINSPIRE does it all while promoting a fair and inclusive workplace for everyone, regardless of gender.
The group put on a whole schedule of events for International Women’s Day, including organising a weekend walk for members of staff along the banks of the River Itchen.
FireENABLE is a network which covers disability, mental health, and neurodiversity. The network gives a collective voice on issues relating to these areas and enables staff to share experiences and provide mutual support.
Along with their online support articles and resources, FireENABLE have developed our successful Personal Support Passport system and have rolled out a sensory tent initiative which is available at station open days to help people with neurodiverse conditions such as autism.
Finally, FireREACH is our network group for religion ethnicity, and cultural heritage! Their aim is to promote a culture of respect and understanding through strong links with the community and our colleagues.
Once again the team were involved in the hosting of the launch event for Black History Month South, as well as opening the doors of St Mary’s Fire Station to celebrate Vaisakhi with the local community.
Across the country, Networks Day presents organisations with an opportunity to celebrate the contribution and offer an insight into the experiences of underrepresented colleagues.
Find out more about our staff network groups by visiting their dedicated page, and learn about the National Day for Staff Networks on their website.