Delegates gather in Cardiff for two-day Women in the Fire Service event

Over 100 delegates from various fire and rescue services across Wales attended a two-day event hosted by Women in the Fire Service (WFS) at Cardiff Gate Training and Development Centre from 18th to 19th October.

The event, which featured both practical and educational activities, provided attendees with hands-on training opportunities and insightful seminars.

Participants engaged in activities that included rope rescue abseiling and were invited to join a blue-light convoy through Cardiff, a unique experience for many.

The event also featured seminars on essential topics such as menopause awareness, cultural change, and female empowerment.

Historical roots and mission of Women in the Fire Service

The origins of Women in the Fire Service date back to the 1990s when it began as Networking Women in the Fire Service, a self-help group focused on promoting equality and addressing challenges faced by women in firefighting.

This volunteer-led, non-profit organisation has since evolved into WFS, which continues its mission to empower women and foster inclusivity within fire services.

Jules King, Chair of WFS, highlighted the organisation’s growth and impact over the years.

She stated: “I have worked in the FS for over 20 years and things are much more positive for women across the sector now.

“It is just amazing to see the energy up and down the country that these WFS events create that allow people to come out of their comfort zones and become more confident.”

Skill-building sessions with fire and rescue scenarios

Throughout the event, attendees were immersed in hands-on experiences designed to enhance their operational skills.

Team-building exercises and demonstrations were provided by Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) teams, who showcased drone technology aimed at improving safety for both firefighters and search-and-rescue efforts.

Specialised training sessions covered advanced trauma and road traffic collision scenarios, allowing participants to practice casualty rescue and treatment techniques.

On-Call Firefighter Ffion Jenkins commented on her experience: “The advanced trauma scenarios with actors playing real life casualties have been fantastic – I’ve never been in situation like this, so it’s given me insight for what’s to come in my career and really good experience for later development. It has really boosted my confidence.”

Networking and inspirational talks from trailblazers

The event also offered networking opportunities, allowing participants to connect with peers and industry leaders.

Key speakers included Georgina Gilbert and Rebecca Openshaw-Rowe, known for their 1,230-kilometre expedition to the South Pole, and Dany Cotton, former London Fire Brigade Commissioner and the first woman to hold this position.

Cotton shared her experiences of overcoming gender-based challenges within the fire service, crediting the support network of NWFRS as essential to her career.

Her discussion touched on the progress of gender inclusivity within the sector, alongside remaining challenges.

Women in the Fire Service Cymru event: Summary

Women in the Fire Service’s first Cymru event brought together fire and rescue professionals across Wales at Cardiff Gate Training and Development Centre from 18th to 19th October.

The event provided over 100 delegates with skill-enhancing activities and educational sessions, fostering an environment for professional growth and empowerment.

Attendees participated in live training scenarios, such as rope rescues and advanced trauma care, and heard from notable speakers like former London Fire Brigade Commissioner Dany Cotton.

WFS Chair Jules King remarked on the progress made in gender inclusivity in fire services.

The event highlighted the enduring challenges and achievements of women in the sector, reflecting WFS’s commitment to advancing equality and support networks in the fire service community.