THE RAINBOW flag flew high at a launch event for LGBTQ History Month at Leamington Fire Station.
Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service invited drag queens and members of the LGBTQ community to raise the flag and talk through their experiences and expectations of the fire and rescue service.
The event aimed to show the importance of being an inclusive employer and to encourage people from diverse communities to consider a career in the fire and rescue service.
Chief Fire Officer Kieran Amos said: “LGBTQ History Month provides the service with a great opportunity to celebrate the amazing diversity that we have, not only here in Warwickshire, but across the whole of the UK.
“Here in Warwickshire we are making great strides to improve equality and diversity, and this is one of many events we have held to welcome the LGBTQ community in to see what we do and explain how they can be part of that.
“The raising of the flag is a significant act and one which has been welcomed by the LGBTQ community. As a fire and rescue service it’s important that our workforce is reflective of the communities we serve, but this can only be done by working with communities and our partners to help to change perceptions and challenge stereotypes of what people believe the fire service to be. If we get this right, it will not only help to enhance community relationships, increase diversity and break down barriers, but it will also help us to be aware of and sensitive to the needs of the communities we are here to serve.”
Visit www.warwickshire.gov.uk/fireandrescuejobs for details.
