Positive Action at Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service

Our commitment to positive action

At Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, we want our workforce to better reflect the communities we serve.

We know that some people can face additional barriers when considering a career in the Fire and Rescue Service. These barriers may be linked to background, experience, confidence, awareness of opportunities, or historic under‑representation within the sector.

Positive action is one of the ways we work to understand and reduce those barriers, so that everyone has a fair opportunity to apply, succeed, and feel they belong.

What do we mean by positive action?

Positive action is a lawful and transparent approach, set out in the Equality Act 2010, that allows employers to take steps to encourage and support people from under‑represented groups where there is evidence of disadvantage or low representation.

In practice, positive action is about:

• providing targeted information and encouragement

• improving access to support and guidance

• removing practical or perceived barriers

• increasing confidence and understanding of our roles and processes

It is not about lowering standards or giving unfair advantage.

What positive action is not

It’s important to be clear about what positive action does not mean.

Positive action:

• does not change entry standards

• does not guarantee a role or outcome

• does not mean someone is selected solely because of a protected characteristic

All applicants must meet the same standards and selection criteria. Appointments are always made on merit.

Who positive action is for

Positive action may be relevant if you:

• are from a group that is historically under‑represented within the fire and rescue service

• feel unsure whether this career is “for you”

• would benefit from additional information, reassurance, or guidance

• have questions or concerns you’d like to talk through informally

You do not need to be certain or confident, curiosity is enough.

A supportive culture

Positive action sits alongside our wider commitment to:

• equality, diversity and inclusion

• dignity and respect at work

• creating an environment where people feel safe to be themselves

We recognise that recruitment is only the start. Belonging, development, and retention matter just as much.

Unsure if positive action applies to you?

If you’re not sure whether positive action is relevant to you, or you simply want to ask a question, we encourage you to get in touch.

There is no obligation, no expectation, and no pressure. Sometimes a conversation is all that’s needed to help you decide what’s right for you.