Recruiting an Equal and Diverse Workforce

We hold Positive Action Pre-recruitment Events

These events are a part of our 'positive action' strategy which can be taken legally to encourage disadvantaged groups who have been under-represented in work areas to consider applying for or receive special training for a particular vocation.

Section 47 of the Sex Discrimination Act 1975 allows for the use of 'positive action' in a number of specific circumstances. A number of methods may be designed to counteract the effects of past discrimination and to help abolish stereotyping.

Action can be taken to encourage people from particular groups to take advantage of opportunities for work and training. This can be done when under ­representation of particular groups has been identified in the previous year. This is clearly the case within the Fire and Rescue Service both nationally and locally.

Positive action is often confused with positive discrimination. Positive discrimination, which generally means employing someone because they come from an under-represented group in spite of whether they have the relevant skills and qualifications, is unlawful.

Positive action does not guarantee that anyone of a specific sex or race will gain employment.

Dates for the upcoming events in 2009 can be found at "Positive Action Pre-recruitment Events Calendar".

Should you require further details regarding this strategy, please contact our Equality and Diversity Officer on 0191 3324319.

Positive Action Days - Firefit Steering Group

County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service have recently hosted 2 positive action days designed to provide guidance for potential female firefighters who are considering a career in the Fire and Rescue Service.

So far 15 potential firefighters have attended; the days commence with a workshop with the Service’s Equality Co-ordinator and this is followed by a session with the Service’s Senior Physical Training Co-ordinator, Gary Bankhead, who discussed the health and fitness requirements of potential firefighters and also explained the new requirements of the new National Firefighter Selection Tests.

For further details please visit the Positive Action page on Firefit Steering Groups website.