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Bullying, discrimination, and a “sexist and misogynist culture” in “many places”.

These are just a few of the issues that can be found in South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, as found in an independent culture review which was published today, January 3.

The review was commissioned by Chief Fire Officer Huw Jakeway QFSM in December 2022 following media reports of abusive behaviour. 

In an open letter, Mr Jakeway wrote that he ‘fully accept[s]’ the recommendation in the report.

He has now retired from his post. 

In the same letter, Mr Jakeway wrote: “For those who have had negative experiences of the service, I am profoundly sorry. There is no place for inappropriate behaviour within South Wales Fire and Rescue Service.”

He added: “There is a lot the service can be proud of, particularly how we protect the communities of south Wales at their time of greatest need. 

“Although, there are too many examples within the report that do not reflect positively on the service and this will be concerning for the staff who do uphold, live, and breathe our values, day-in and day-out.”

The review was led by Fenella Morris KC and surveyed more than 450 staff.

Deficiencies in the service were found in several areas. 

“Sexist and misogynist culture” in “many places”

Just 8% of operational (non-corporate) staff are female.

In one part of the operational side, the Joint Fire Control, the report found that women feel overlooked, underappreciated and isolated. 

There was also evidence of “outdated mindsets” among some leaders and managers, which enables a “sexist and misogynist culture” in “many places” in the service.

This included comments about the way women look, how they dress and sexualising them using comments, with one male member of staff reportedly saying: “Oh, I would give her one.”

Female firefighters are also subject to different treatment on watches, seen as being not as physically able, having an “easier ride” or subject to “banter” which can tend to include sexist comments.

The report revealed instances of women within the service receiving unsolicited “pictures of genitals” and experiencing “inappropriate advances.”

This report found that “dark humour” can be a “screen” for offensive comments exhibiting sexism or homophobia.

Differences in perception, however, were also seen as a possible reason for such behaviour. One instance of a gay member of staff being put on a fairy and placed on top of a Christmas tree when he was absent was not meant to be an offensive action but a “sign of endearment”.

“Bullying”

The service was found to have a hierarchical power structure that “allows people to use their position to control and/or bully others”.

This is encapsulated by higher-ranking members of staff pointing to epaulettes (shoulder decoration used as insignia) to refer to their rank.

The review heard reports of managers behaving “harshly” towards staff, and “aggressive” and “bullying” conduct. 

It also found a lack of understanding among some firefighters as to why making general offensive comments, rather than directing them at an individual, is problematic.

Targeted bullying, however, was also found in members of the watch, with incidents involving food and toothbrushes being tampered with and demeaning names being written on lockers.

The report adds: “The importance of ensuring an inclusive environment in which all members of the watch can feel respected, safe, and secure is not universally appreciated, and, in some instances, disregarded entirely”. 

Positive Aspects

Despite the deficiencies, the review found several positive aspects, including a “universal proud commitment to service of the community”.

It also commended the positive measures it has introduced to support mental health and neurodivergent people.

The report added that the service has already taken steps to “recognise and address” its failings by improving its approach to human resources processes and disciplinary matters.

The full report can be found on South Wales Fire and Rescue Service‘s website.