Currently just one per cent of the Jersey Fire and Rescue Service’s operational workforce is female and there is not a single woman in middle or senior management either at full-time or retained level.
The information has been released following a freedom of information request by a university student who is writing a dissertation about operational female staff in fire and rescue services across the British Isles.
In response to the questions, the service says that it follows the States of Jersey Equality and Diversity policy.
It adds: ‘In the past four years, fewer than ten female candidates have applied for firefighter roles, but either have not passed written tests/fitness tests or have withdrawn. The standard of fitness test is designed by Bath University and is considered fair and reasonable for all.
‘A high number of women do not apply for the roles. Several years ago, a specific “have a go” evening was held for women, however the attendance rate was nil.’
The response covers both full-time and retained firefighters. The service’s response goes on to say that recruitment campaigns and literature used by the organisation do not specify gender and ‘positively and proactively encourage applications from both [men and women]’.
And it adds that fewer than five women have been promoted to supervisory level within the service, but at retained level only.
