I came across this post and started reading with a deep sense of dread. I was massively impressed and relieved with most of replies which showed a maturity and level of acceptance I wasn't expecting.
I am a female firefighter and I am very proud of my profession. It took me over 2 years to become wholetime. During this time I responded to over 8 campaigns in brigades all over the country and became a retained FF in my local brigade. During this time, not once did I receive any female specific information or assistance. I was the only female on my training course and there was one BME on a course of 21. And the rest of the course were of course........ white, heterosexual males. Very nice they were too. Positive action has been used for the last
8 YEARS so why are us minority groups still such a massive minority when apparently all we have to turn up an open day and we're measured up for our kit! The easiest retort I can give to people who assume only non- white males are recruited is go to your training centre, today, and see the reality. Unfortunately the ham fisted approach some brigades have employeed to attract minority groups has backfired horribly. I never want anyone to look at me and think I'm only here to fill a target.
As we all know, our job is not for everybody and I would never, ever defend the wrong person being appointed but then again we all know someone who we look at and think 'how the hell did you get in'. It's a better story if the incompetent person is 'the girl from green' or 'the asian bloke from B2' rather than the 20 year LFF who is so fat he can't wear a BA set. The important thing is- would you write them off or offer them support to improve? We all have strenghs and weaknesses, that's why we work in a team. If someone isn't strong enough to drag a 12stone person and has no intention of developing that strength, then that is a serious, potentially dangerous problem. But if they do? Then don't we owe it to them to get behind them and encourage them? Don't punish someone for the brigade's failings, that person has passed what that brigade has deemed appropriate tests.
I think a lot of people want to look for lazy reasons to blame someone else for there own misfortunes.
Do I want to see 14% female firefighters? No, it shouldn't have a percentage tagged on it- I want this remarkable, rewarding job to be appealing to anyone who has the determination, resiliance and enhusiasm to fulfill the role. I came from a background of building work and still, despite always working with men, it took a friend of mine to apply to the fireservice for it to go off like a lightbulb in my head that the fire service could be my perfect career. If you have never been a minority in a situation it is futile me trying to explain the importance of peer support. For the more enlightened of you, try going to a step aerobic class, on your own. I'll bet that hour will really open your eyes. Role models are the key- and they take time in finding.
So anyway- i thought there were some great comments on here that are very encouraging for our service. We are a team- let's look after each other.
Oh and by the way- if you a white, male primary school teacher, there are postive action campaigns just for you!