A North East fire service has partnered with a social enterprise to help break down race barriers.
County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) have recently began working with pioneering Teakisi.
CDDFRS and Teakisi are on a joint mission to help attract candidates from minoritised communities to apply for the Service’s current firefighter apprenticeship programme and help build on the Service’s inclusive workforce policies.
Chief Fire Officer, Steve Helps said: “As a Service, we really value diversity.
“A diverse team brings with it diversity of thought - people with different backgrounds, cultures and lived-in experiences will offer a fresh perspective, helping foster creativity and innovation.”
He added: “Already, our work with Teakisi has helped open our eyes to the fact many people from minoritised backgrounds don’t feel connected or engaged with the fire service, therefore, miss out on the opportunity of the career of a lifetime, being a firefighter.
“We truly do strive to become a Service that reflects all members of its community, and that’s why we’ve sought the expert guidance of Teakisi.
“This partnership is about more than just assisting us recruit a more diverse next generation of firefighters, it’s about helping us become the best Service we can be and ensuring we can serve everyone in our communities.”
Salha Kaitesi is the founder of Teakisi.
Looking forward to working with the Service, she said: "Teakisi is pleased to join forces with County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service in supporting greater diversity and representation within the fire service.
“Our mission is to help bridge the gap, ensuring that opportunities are open and welcoming to all, particularly for candidates from minoritised communities.
“Together, we’re not only focused on recruitment but on building a workplace that genuinely reflects and serves the whole community, inspiring a new generation of firefighters who bring diverse perspectives and lived experiences to this vital role.”
CDDFRS is currently recruiting the next generation of firefighters.
Applications to register your interest to become an Apprentice Firefighter are currently open: :https://apollo.adc.uk.com/s/apprenticerecruit2024
Meanwhile, the Service is hosting two positive action events. These taster sessions are open to women and people who identify as black, ethnic minority or Asian.
Bishop Aukland Fire Station – November 9 – 10.30am – 12pm
Bishop Aukland Fire Station – November 19 – 6.30pm – 8pm
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