Firestyle Magazine: Issue 1 - Autumn 2015

WOMEN IN THE FIRE SERVICE
“Sunday afternoon and it is with a heavy heart that
I check out of my room and say goodbye to new
friends and colleagues from fire and rescue services
from around the UK. New friends and colleagues that
have and will form the basis of a fantastic network
of support, guidance and general friendship within
the Fire Service throughout my career and possibly
beyond; friends that I have laughed with, friends that
I have shared knowledge and experiences with and
friends that have made the Annual Women in the Fire
Service Development Weekend an event not to be
missed.”
Every year this inspiring event, run by Women in the
Fire Service (WFS), brings together delegates from
across the fire service community. But it’s not limited
to women; anyone can attend and take advantage
of the development opportunities available over
the three day conference style event, yes, there has
even been reports of men attending this weekend
experience!
From having a go at being a firefighter, understanding fire
investigation or simply learning how to get the most out
of your working life through neuro linguistic programming
(NLP), the weekend has a wide range of workshops for
operational and support delegates to book in advance.
But the development weekend is often just the beginning
of the story. Many people are unaware of the benefits
of being part of an organisation that can really support
you, in whatever role you undertake within the fire service.
WFS can be simply explained as a contact system,
introduced to provide support for individuals who may
feel isolated or be experiencing difficulties. By the simple
use of communications, WFS aims to support women
throughout the country.
Formally known as Networking Women in the Fire Service,
the organisation with members from across all roles
within the FRS community. It’s run by elected committee
members who direct the business of the organisation.
The objectives of WFS are:
• to make the FRS a place where men and women can work, and compete, together
professionally and harmoniously.
• to provide a comprehensive support network for members
• to encourage the recruitment, retention, development and progression of women within
the fire and rescue service
• to provide training and development opportunities specifically targeting women in the FRS
• to challenge FRSs on behalf of members
• to advise FRS/DCLG with the aim of creating positive change
An incredible network of regional
members, taking part in general get
togethers, organised development
opportunities and regular meetings,
helps to fulfil the objectives of WFS
and most importantly, helps support
its members. You can find out more
about activities in your region by
visiting the website www.nwfs.net
The following testimonials show why
this network really matters:
“I have a new found respect for my
operational colleagues and a better
understanding of the demands of
their role following a chance to wear
BA thanks to the WFS development
weekend.” Derbyshire member
“I had been working at a junior level and suffering from a lack of confidence.
Friends I met through WFS have encouraged me and helped me believe in
myself. I now have a new job and really feel a valued member of the team. I
can see a career path opening up for me.
“The power of a support network is unbelievable.” Anonymous
So what’s stopping you finding
out more, or joining up today?
Individual membership costs £10
per year.
If you want to know more about
WFS, you can visit www.nwfs.net
contact your local representative
(detail on the website) or simply
jump straight in and sign up for the
next WFS event taking place.
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Fire and Rescue Services can also support the aims and objectives of WFS by becoming Corporate
Affiliate Members, please contact khsmith@tiscali.co.uk for more information.