WRUK response to HMICFRS report

White Ribbon UK welcomes the HMICFRS, Standards of behaviour: The handling of misconduct in fire and rescue services Report findings and recommendations.

White Ribbon UK is an organisation committed to changing cultures that are harassing, misogynist and sexist, and seek to prevent violence against women. We work with organisations and individuals, especially men, to achieve this.

As the report highlights, there is a need for Fire and Rescue Services to consider their continuous responsibility and accountability to listen to women’s experiences to address issues effectively.

Leyla Buran, White Ribbon Campaigns and Policy Manager said, “Challenging harmful attitudes and behaviours is vital to creating meaningful change and to stop further harm from happening. This must be framed as both an organisational and individual responsibility. Everyone plays a part in preventing seemingly ‘harmless’ attitudes and behaviour from perpetuating violence against women and girls.”

The report highlights that there are good examples of this work happening but suggests that a more coordinated approach is needed. White Ribbon UK will continue to work with Fire and Rescue Services to support their culture change plans, and to ensure the prevention of violence through attitude and behaviour change is a priority.