Equality & Diversity
What is the Equality & Diversity Forum?
The Equality and Diversity Forum was established over 12 months ago, with the following aims:-
- To act as the policy advisory and consultation group on equality and diversity matters for Highlands & Islands Fire & Rescue Service and the Fireboard, to ensure compliance with legislation and best practice;
- To proactively promote equality and diversity issues within the Service and the Fireboard (Diversity Champions), ensuring effective communication; and
- Promote engagement within the Local Communities
Who are the members of the Forum?
Hugh Henny Assistant CFO
Margaret Fisk HR Manager
Gareth Edwards Ops Officer North
Dave Leishman Ops Officer South
Richy Kane A1 Rep (White)
Karaine Smith Ret FF North
Chris Hirst Ret FF South
Lynda Dickson Control Rep (Green)
Fraser Parr FBU Rep (Green)
Dave Mackay AMICUS Rep
Mich Curtis Development Rep
Cathie Way Support Staff Rep
Morag Bannigan UNISON Rep
John Ford Elected Member
Helen Carmichael Elected Member
What kind of things do they do?
This group was responsible for coming up with an action plan in response to the Cultural Audit. They have a responsibility for reviewing the Service’s Equality Action plans, considering policies that may have a positive impact on Equality & Diversity such as the recently tabled Exit Interview process, and considering how to promote Equality and Diversity throughout the Service, both by acting as champions and supporting education programmes such as the recently considered Diversity programme within IPDS.
How can I find out what is going on?
Within the next few weeks, a specific Equality area will be set up on the HIFRS web site. This will contain all the minutes of the meetings along with our equality schemes and related action plans. It will also cover any events that might be of interest to you.
What if I have a contribution to make, or an idea for consideration?
You are always free to raise issues with any member of the Forum and they will deal with the matter on your behalf. Alternatively, you can e-mail people@hifrs.org
