Women in The Fire Service
Having only begun my life as a firefighter ‘under development’ just over a year ago at the ripe old age of 42, I have found the whole process challenging, exciting, meaningful but also at time, frustrating. I have long had a dislike of unfair or biased behaviour so when I was asked if I was interested in becoming the women’s FBU rep for Hampshire, I jumped at the chance despite knowing very little about the role! What I did know through the six years I’ve been in HFRS and in particular my three years involvement with the Networking Women in the Fire Service, is that it’s good for women in the service to have a voice.It goes without saying that there continues to be cultural changes taking place within today’s Fire and Rescue Services and I personally feel by taking on the role as Women’s Representative, I am not here to hinder or block any proposed changes but instead am here to represent and offer a perspective perhaps as yet not considered, in summary I am here as a resource available to all. I am keen to assist HFRS in moving forwards and personally to become a known point of contact for those they may need support or guidance. If I can’t help, I will certainly find out who can!
Since being back at Cosham, I have with the support of the station manager and crews, put together a prototype ‘welfare pack’ which can be easily stored on any appliance and contains items which may be beneficial to all firefighters but in particular women. I am hoping this will be taken up by HFRS and if anyone has any comments or feedback, please pass them on.
Although the last few months have been a steep learning curve for me, I’ve found attendance at both the FBU Women’s School and the annual conference absolutely invaluable. Both events educated, re-assured and inspired me and I would recommend members attending next year. In October this year (16th-18th) the FBU is holding the annual gay and lesbian school at the inspirational Wortley Hall, South Yorkshire and again I would urge members to attend. I firmly believe that time set aside to get to know others in a similar situation or to better understand issues colleagues may face, is time well spent. However these occasions don’t always have to be formal which is why I am hoping to arrange an informal camping weekend in the New Forest with other women members from across the region. So watch this space! Also Kerry Baigent (National Women’s Committee Secretary) is planning to schedule in regional meeting within the next few months.
Emma Morgan
HFBU Women Rep
