'Concerns' have been raised about the workplace culture at Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Service, as the organisation is rated 'requires improvement' in several areas.
In an inspection carried out by His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Service (HMICFRS), which carries out a similar function to Ofsted in the education sector, Wiltshire's fire service was found to have made some progress since its last inspection in 2022.
But despite being rated 'good' in five areas and 'adequate' in two, the service was also given 'requires improvement' in three areas and rated 'inadequate' in promoting its values and culture.
Inspectors raised particular concerns about the workplace culture at Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Service, which they say has "an underlying culture of misogyny and sexism."
"We were told about some concerning examples of poor behaviour. These included the use of inappropriate language, lack of respect for colleagues, and discrimination," said inspector Roy Wilsher.
"More needs to be done to implement the action plan and make sure staff act with integrity and demonstrate the service’s values."
Despite these concerns though, inspectors say the service has improved since its last inspection.
Inspector Roy Wilsher added: “The service has made some progress in other areas since our previous inspection. For example, it is better at understanding risk, and has addressed the area for improvement from our last inspection.
"It also continues to perform well in efficiency and has a clear plan in place to make further efficiency savings. But there is still more work to do.
"The service hasn’t made enough progress in equality, diversity and inclusion, and staff don’t have confidence in the grievance and discipline process or the promotions process.
"I recognise that changing the culture takes time. I will keep in close contact with the service to monitor its progress in addressing the cause of concern and associated recommendations.”
A spokesperson for Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Service added: "The inspection process is a valuable opportunity for the Service to learn and improve, and we welcome the scrutiny and accountability it brings.
"We remain focused on delivering the goals set out in our Culture Action Plan, embedding significant changes aimed at improving our workplace for both staff and the communities we serve.
"We have already made meaningful progress and will continue to build on this to ensure we are always working toward a safer, more inclusive environment for all.
"Our commitment to providing the best possible service to our communities, working alongside our partners, remains at the forefront of our priorities, and we will use the report’s findings as an opportunity to keep improving."
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