Becky Hinchley - Crew Manager at Ascot Drive Fire Station

Joining the fire service has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Many times in my life, I’ve felt a little lost and out of place, struggling to find a sense of belonging or identity. Many times I have made the wrong decision, but it turns out, this wasn’t one of them!

To encourage more women to join the fire service, I’d like to see more opportunities for women of all ages to engage in activities similar to our roles at an earlier career consideration stage. It’s crucial to discuss our work, seek mentors and connect with local fire services to gain insights from serving firefighters. Demonstrate why diversity in the fire service is essential and showcase any training or development tips useful for applicants. Ultimately, reveal the everyday people behind the uniform to help others understand how they too could become a firefighter.

I am supported in my work by the fantastic people around me. Firefighters within the service provide an amazing network of truly inspiring individuals. Our team of support staff helps and challenges our ways of working to find marginal gains previously overlooked. We have progression pathways and numerous opportunities to engage with, whether through youth schemes, mental health advocacy or interagency liaison. Everyone is encouraged to improve themselves and when you think you’ve reached your potential – there’s always a new challenge just around the corner!

Within Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service and the wider fire sector, inclusion is being inspired by recognising the impact every individual has on the service. By increasing our awareness of one another and opening up to share our experiences and knowledge – whether good, bad or ugly - we can truly achieve more together.

Enhancing our learning and understanding, being allies and advocates for those around us, helps improve everyone’s potential. DFRS opens its doors to all and we pride ourselves on being visual role models and representatives to our communities.