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Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service has launched a new recruitment campaign aimed at encouraging more women to become firefighters.
Coinciding with International Women’s Day, the campaign focusses on the rewarding career opportunities available at GMFRS and aims to inspire women to consider their next career to be in firefighting by highlighting the real experiences of women currently in the service.
Greater Manchester is one of the most culturally diverse areas in the UK and the recruitment drive is part of GMFRS’s ongoing work to increase the diversity of its workforce. Having a workforce that truly reflects the communities it serves allows the service to respond more effectively and understand the needs of residents and businesses.
The number of female firefighters in GMFRS has grown significantly over the last decade, with just under 10% of firefighters being women. Only 1.83% were women in 2015.
This has coincided with an increase in the female population of the workforce as a whole, which now stands at 18%.
“When joining GMFRS, you are not just stepping into a job, you are embarking on a lifelong career with endless opportunities for growth. Here, every day brings new challenges and a clear path for progression, offering you the chance to build a future as rewarding as it is impactful.
“By delivering our attraction strategy, we are dedicated to reflecting the diversity of the communities we serve. We foster an inclusive culture where everyone can be their self, supported by staff networks that promote connection and support. We value and embrace differences, ensuring respect for all.
“I would encourage anyone with the passion, bravery and enthusiasm to become a firefighter to go to our website to find out more from our introductory sessions and sign up.”
Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Sarah Nattrass.
Sammy Archer, who passed-out in 2023 and is now an apprentice firefighter, said: “I have learned an incredible amount in my time as an apprentice firefighter facing so many tough but rewarding challenges.
“I’ve been inspired by so many people that I’ve worked with – including women across different roles and levels and male allies – and am so glad I made the change to become a firefighter.”
Following an initial firefighter recruitment course, GMFRS offers a two-year firefighter apprenticeship providing a structured training programme with on-the-job experience and classroom learning.
Those interested in joining GMFRS and becoming a firefighter should go to the website and complete an expression of interest form: www.manchesterfire.gov.uk/join-us
GMFRS hosted an event at the Bury Training and Safety Centre on 7 March to celebrate International Women’s Day and the invaluable contributions made by GMFRS’s female staff and male allies.
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