Derbyshire Fire And Rescue Service Awarded ‘Disability Confident’ Leader Status

Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service (DFRS) has announced it is now a Disability Confident Leader, a level up from its previous status of Disability Confident Employer and the highest level achievable.

Awarded by the Department of Work and Pensions, DFRS has become the first fire and rescue service in the country to be accredited with Leader status and is recognition for the Service:

• Successfully completing the Disability Confident self-assessment.
• Taking all of the core actions to be a Disability Confident employer.
• Offering at least one activity to get the right people for their business and at least one activity to keep and develop their people.

The Service would like to thank Derbyshire based charity, Hearing Help UK for their help in verifying DFRS’ application.

Chief Fire Officer / Chief Executive, Terry McDermott said, “Our committed, professional workforce allows us to deliver an excellent service to the communities of Derbyshire, but we cannot become complacent about this.  It is essential we invest in our employees and provide support where needed.  The award of Disability Confident Leaders, shows that the Service is building upon the significant progress it has already made in recognising that disabled people and those with long term health conditions have the opportunities to fulfil their potential and realise their aspirations.

“I would personally like to thank everyone involved in helping ensure DFRS has been rewarded for the continued improvement in recognising and supporting disabled people in the workplace.”

DFRS’s improved Disability Confident status is valid until 2021. More information regarding the Disability Confident scheme can be found here.