Fire service to host women-only event in Inverness as part of national recruitment drive

A WOMEN-only recruitment event will be held at Inverness Fire Station next weekend in a bid to increase the number of female firefighters.

The event on Saturday offers a chance to hear about life as a firefighter, career progression opportunities as well as fitness test try outs, demonstrations of fire kits, tours of the station and information on recruitment processes.

It is part of Scottish Fire and Rescue Service's (SFRS) latest recruitment drive - seeking up to 300 applicants to join the 3000-plus full-time firefighters already working to protect communities.

Only five per cent of Scotland's firefighters are women while less than one per cent are from an ethnic minority.

SFRS director of people and organisational development Liz Barnes said: "We are very privileged to work for an emergency service that prides itself on working hard each and every day to serve and protect the people of Scotland.

"But we are also committed to ensuring that the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service reflects our country's very unique and diverse communities - and that is why we are actively reaching out to everyone to ask them to consider a fantastic career as a wholetime firefighter.

"You will have to hit a high standard to ensure that you can safely respond in some of the most hostile and dynamic environments as part of an effective team - but equally you will also be required to work with residents and partners to prevent harm arising in the first place.

"We have an outstanding and committed training department who will ensure you are supported and guided through every single step of that process.

"But that process does not end there - you can take many routes within this service and we will help you to make the most of the opportunities available to you, whether that is as an urban search and rescue specialist or working your way into a senior officer role - maybe even Chief Officer one day.

"But I urge you to take that first step and apply to become a wholetime firefighter."

She added: "Our message is simple - if you are capable of being a firefighter, then we will help you realise that ambition."

Mrs Barnes cautioned applicants to take their time and ensure they submit the best possible application.

"Once applications go live on March 21, you will have almost three weeks to make your submission.

"Don't rush through it and please be aware that we will accept only your first application so do not leave it to the last minute and do not attempt to submit multiple applications.

"I would urge those who are interested to also follow our dedicated social media accounts where we will host, for example, a live question and answer session with a senior officer.

"This is an exciting time and we are very much looking forward to welcoming the next generation into a Service that is seeking to do so more for the people of Scotland."

For detailed information on the role and what will be expected of potential applicants, visit https://www.firescotland.gov.uk/work-with-us.aspx

For more information and to register for the women-only event interest, visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/scottish-fire-and-rescue-service-18758885402

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