Damning report describes fire service as ‘operational boys club’
The Independent Cultural Review was jointly commissioned by the local service as well as North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, and was facilitated by crime and justice specialists, Crest Advisory.
But it makes for grim reading for fire chiefs, with a large number of current and former staff describing MAWWFRS as an ‘operational boys club’ where “personal connections with senior leaders fostered favouritism and nepotism”.
It describes the leadership style as hierarchical who are “controlling and unapproachable”.
The report states that bullying and harassment were widespread with one in five of those who responded experiencing discrimination, and one in 10 female staff experiencing sexual harassment.
Worryingly for the service, the Review said that disciplinary procedures were perceived as “unprofessional, not impartial, not confidential, unfair and ineffective”.
There are six pages of recommendations included which the Service has responded to by saying that they “represent the beginning of a new chapter in the cultural evolution of North Wales and Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Services”.
By implementing these recommendations, they said, both Fire and Rescue Services reaffirm their dedication to creating a workplace where every employee feels valued, heard and empowered, and to enhance the services provided to their communities.
This is how Mid and West Wales Chief Fire Officer Roger Thomas KFSM, has responded: “Firstly, and most importantly, I would like to apologise unreservedly to any of my colleagues who have been subject to bullying, harassment or discrimination in any form. This is wholly unacceptable and does not align with the values and behaviours that we espouse or endorse as a Service.
“Secondly, I accept the findings and recommendations within the review which support my ambition to improve the culture of our Service, which was one of my key aims when I was appointed as Chief Fire Officer. Whilst we have evidently made progress to address these issues it is equally clear that we need to do more to ensure that our staff feel safe, supported and valued.
“Through initiatives like our Culture and Inclusion Board and Working Group and their associated action plans, we are already building momentum towards a more inclusive, diverse and supportive organisation.
“This review now provides us with clear recommendations to guide future improvements in our culture and diversity.”
Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service Fire Authority Chair, Councillor Gwynfor Thomas, said: “Members of Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Authority are saddened to read the findings of the independent culture review of Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service.
“We are humbled by people’s courage in giving open, honest and challenging feedback, and it is with thanks to those who contributed that we can see the urgency with which we must act to tackle poor culture and behaviour where it exists.
“Under the leadership of Chief Fire Officer Roger Thomas, meaningful progress has already been made towards achieving a safer, more inclusive environment for all at Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service but we are acutely aware that the findings of this report make clear there is more work that needs to be done.
“What is important now is that staff, key stakeholders and the public can see and contribute to meaningful change to strengthen the workplace culture at Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service.
“You have my assurances that where appropriate, the recommendations within this report will be delivered without delay and Members of the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Authority will play an active part in this process.”
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