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Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) has announced that it is the first emergency service to achieve the Pride in Care quality standard for its commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI). Awarded by national charity, Opening Doors, the standard is given to organisations that commit to strengthening their inclusion of LGBTQ+ people over 50.
The service underwent a comprehensive accreditation process to receive the accolade, including staff surveys and evidence gathering, which highlighted the dedication that runs through the organisation to embrace difference.
KFRS is passionate about supporting everyone it serves and has developed ‘Everyone Together’ – an approach to EDI which is about striving to become a more inclusive and diverse place to work and volunteer, and helping everyone in Kent and Medway to live safer lives.
Ann Millington, Chief Executive of KFRS said, “We are dedicated to making everyone feel valued and that includes people who identify as LGBTQ+, and we’re delighted to have been recognised for our ongoing commitment. We’ve worked closely with Opening Doors to achieve the quality standard and we are grateful for the support they have given us.
“We do everything that we can to support equality, diversity and inclusion throughout Kent and Medway, Everyone Together is our official approach that focuses on valuing difference and being kind. This recognition shows just how far we have come, but we’re constantly striving for better. We’re constantly working with the LGBTQ+ community to understand how we can offer more support and be a better emergency service with the aim of keeping everyone safe.”
Head of Fundraising and Communications at Opening Doors, Jonathon Buckerfield, said: “Kent Fire and Rescue Service has shown an extremely high level of engagement and commitment to working with LGBTQ+ people. It is the first emergency service to be awarded the Pride in Care Quality Standard”.