Posted: Friday 17 May 2019, 15:02
Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service understands and values diversity in the workplace and is committed to promoting a culture of inclusion.
17 May 2019 is International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT), which celebrates LGBT+ rights and culture. The theme for IDAHOBIT this year is ‘Celebrate the Power of Love’, which recognises that discrimination based on sexuality and gender continues within society, including some workplaces, but also highlights the need to continue playing an active role to ensure that we promote a culture of inclusivity and diversity.
All people, without exception, have a right to be themselves without fear of abuse or discrimination. DFRS continues to work with local LGBT+ groups both internally and externally to ensure that all events, such as open days and community engagement, are accessible, inclusive and open to all.
2018/19 has seen our LGBT+ & Allies network facilitate various LGBT+ awareness sessions and work towards the second LGBT+ Conference on 12th June 2019, which has seen our Stonewall ranking increase by 140 places to 127th overall in the country, which also means we score highly when compared to other Fire & Rescue Services.
In truth we still have some way to go, but we are determined to reach out to all our communities and make our Service one that is recognised as accessible to all people, both as an employer and a service provider. Our ongoing presence at Pride events will continue with the Service supporting Chesterfield Pride on 21st July, Derby Pride on 7th September as well as the inaugural Belper Pride on 3rd August 2019.
Everyone can play their part in changing attitudes towards LGBT+ people at work, home and within our communities. It starts with a single person.