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.