Abstract:

Notwithstanding occupational hazards, firefighters face additional dangers, with attacks on the UK fire and rescue service becoming more frequent. Sadly, while in positions of power, when safeguarding local communities, these street-level service personnel are often abused in horrific attacks, noted in the national press. Given the drive for equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) for public organisations specifically, these conflicts warrant further research, as attacks may be directed more towards certain groups and more prevalent in certain areas.

In partnership with a regional UK fire service, data collection consists of large-scale surveys and interviews with senior management. The aim is to establish firefighters’ thoughts about potential causes of such interactions, examining whether locality and/or demographics impact on attack frequency. Using an intersectional lens to examine power and inequalities, this research has the potential to offer significant impact by understanding why certain incidents trigger negative interactions, and thereby, highlight opportunities for improvements in response.

Notwithstanding occupational hazards, firefighters face additional dangers, with attacks on the UK fire service becoming more frequent. Sadly, while in positions of power, when safeguarding local communities, these street-level service personnel are often abused in horrific attacks, noted in the national press. Given the drive for equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) for public organisations specifically, these conflicts warrant further research, as attacks may be directed more towards certain groups and more prevalent in certain areas.

In partnership with a regional UK fire service, data collection consists of large-scale surveys and interviews with senior management. The aim is to establish firefighters’ thoughts about potential causes of such interactions, examining whether locality and/or demographics impact on attack frequency. Using an intersectional lens to examine power and inequalities, this research has the potential to offer significant impact by understanding why certain incidents trigger negative interactions, and thereby, highlight opportunities for improvements in response.

Please choose your submission type: Developmental Paper

Primary Track: Decision-Making Under Uncertainty

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Dr. Colin Richardson