Fairness at Work

Your Regional Fairness at Work Rep is Joe Tray

email joe.tray@fbu.org.uk

mobile 07795 523223



What is Fairness at Work?


Fairness at Work can simply be described as “Treating others how we would wish to be treated – with respect”. 


That sounds really straightforward, is it as easy as that?


The concept is, however in reality it is a complex issue that covers many different strands from race to religious belief, from gender to sexual orientation, but essentially it is about treating people with respect.


Why is the FBU involved?


The Fire Brigades Union is a trade union, we are there to represent, support and help our members and unfortunately our members are still suffering from harassment, bullying and discrimination in the workplace in particular and society in general. As a trade union that truly believes in equality, then it is absolutely right that we hold Fairness at Work as a cornerstone of our principled stand against any form of discrimination or bullying. 


Does the Fire Brigades Union have a policy on this issue?


The FBU policy on Fairness at Work is contained within the document “All Different All Equal”. This has been agreed by your representatives at the FBU Annual Conference which is the supreme governing body of the FBU.


Doesn’t the management of the Fire and Rescue Service also have a responsibility to ensure Fairness at Work and Equality legislation is being adhered to?


Yes the management of the F&RS does have a responsibility to end discrimination and promote Fairness at Work, however it is the responsibility of everyone to challenge inappropriate behaviour if and when we see it.

What should I do if I am being bullied?


The most important step to take is to contact the FBU.  This can either be done through your workplace rep, your Brigade rep, Fairness at Work rep, Women’s rep, G&L rep or BE&MM rep. 

We also have a confidential stress and support helpline where advice can be given.  The number is 0800 7834778.  This helpline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It is very important that you keep a record of any instances of bullying; this can be done in a diary format.
Do not suffer in silence.

What do I do if I have been accused of bullying and harassment?


As has already been stated the FBU has a policy on bullying and harassment and this policy is clear, the FBU will not give representation to anyone accused of offences of this type without clear evidence that the accused has an “arguable defence”. Again this is defined in the FBU policy document “All Different All Equal”. 
Your first step is to write to the Regional Secretary to request representation stating your name and address and your Brigade. The Regional Secretary will then contact you to explain the process that will be followed, timeframes and any other information you require.

Please click here for further information and to view a copy of the FBU “All Different All Equal” policy.