Equality and diversity in the fire and rescue service, together with police custody in the spotlight

The session, on Tuesday 28 May, will focus on equality and diversity in the fire and rescue service and police custody.

Public accountability meetings are broadcast live online with members of the public invited to send in their comments before or during the session.

May’s subjects were chosen as inspections of fire and rescue services across England have found that most needed to do more to promote diversity of the workforce and a positive culture. In his recent 100-day report since taking over as Chief Fire Officer, Andrew Brodie identified:

“Parts of our workforce aren’t diverse enough, most starkly the low numbers of firefighters who are women and the consequent dearth of women in senior firefighter roles. Colleagues recognise the desire to diversify the workforce but misunderstand why it’s necessary, often citing that ‘we just need the best person for the job’. The need to widen the spectrum of people who choose to apply is understood poorly and further education is needed on the benefits of positive action.”

At this meeting, the Chief Fire Officer will report on progress and plans to address equality and diversity issues within the service.

Chief Constable Lisa Winward and her team will report on the impact of the reduction in custody suites and new bail rules. They will also provide an insight into the journey through the custody process to highlight where improvements have been or can be made.

As well as watching the live broadcast, the public are also invited to ask their questions during the meetings via Twitter by including #NYscrutiny in their tweets.

Commenting on the public meetings, Julia said:

“These meetings give members of the public and staff the opportunity to understand the performance of both services and hear what they are doing to keep us safe and feeling safe.

“I encourage everyone to join in and watch, and if you have a question, please ask it.”

The agenda, along with presentations and reports are available on the Commissioner’s website here: http://bit.ly/PAM-May2019

To ask a question in advance:

• Send your question to info@northyorkshire-pfcc.gov.uk before Friday 24 May. Please include your name and address with your question.
• To ask a question during the meeting using Twitter
  Post on Twitter during the live broadcast using #NYscrutiny

To watch the live broadcast

Head over to our YouTube Chanel: https://www.youtube.com/user/nypcc
Follow us on Twitter @northyorkspfcc and look for #NYscrutiny

Future meetings

• 28 May
  Fire – Equality, diversity and inclusion
  Police – Custody, arrests and voluntary attendees
• 25 June
  Fire – mental health
  Police – Mental health
• 30 July
  Fire – Protection and business safety
  Police – Investigation hubs and the serious crime team
• 27 August
  Fire – Special services
  Police – Use of force and stop and search