Management didn't challenge inappropriate behavior in local fire service

Wednesday, 18 October 2023 01:00

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service have published the Independent Review report into their workplace culture.

The review, which Chief Fire Officer Ben Ansell commissioned following a number of serious allegations of inappropriate behaviour in the media, was conducted by Alex Johnson QFSM and her team.

In an open letter to the review lead, Chief Fire Officer Ben Ansell said: “I am incredibly grateful to those who came forward to share their experiences with your review team. This shows the desire and commitment of our staff to further strengthen our culture so that every individual feels respected, valued, and safe in their workplace. I would also like to personally thank you and your team for your work in holding a mirror up to our organisation.

https://youtu.be/7RsedfppGQg?si=tGWIkWDmgOh1KTdo

He added: “You have also identified some concerning experiences within your report, and I am truly sorry that these have occurred. I personally found some of the experiences of our staff were uncomfortable for me to read and although we have much in place, I can see that we have not always got things right and this must and will change. There is no place for inappropriate behaviour in our organisation and I am fully committed to driving our culture forward positively.”

The report is available on the Service’s website. You can see it here - https://www.dwfire.org.uk/about-us/your-fire-and-rescue-service/independent-review/

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