Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service have today published the Independent Review report into their workplace culture.
The review, which was commissioned by Chief Fire Officer Ben Ansell following a number of serious allegations of inappropriate behaviour in February, was conducted by Alex Johnson QFSM and her team and was seen as a valuable opportunity to further strengthen both the work already being undertaken by the Service following the publication of the Independent Culture Review of London Fire Brigade in November 2022 and an existing programme of work associated with ensuring positive workplace cultures.
Alex and her team heard from 200 members of staff who shared their views and experiences in relation to the culture of the workplace.
In an open letter to the review lead, Chief Fire Officer Ben Ansell said: “I am incredibly grateful to those who came forward to share their experiences with your review team. This shows the desire and commitment of our staff to further strengthen our culture so that every individual feels respected, valued, and safe in their workplace. I would also like to personally thank you and your team for your work in holding a mirror up to our organisation.
He added: “You have also identified some concerning experiences within your report, and I am truly sorry that these have occurred. I personally found some of the experiences of our staff were uncomfortable for me to read and although we have much in place, I can see that we have not always got things right and this must and will change. There is no place for inappropriate behaviour in our organisation and I am fully committed to driving our culture forward positively.”
The report is available on the Fire Service’s website, alongside the Service’s response in the form of an open letter to Alex Johnson and responses to each of the 28 recommendations.
