The Equality Impact Assessment (EIA) process has been used in a number of ways to inform the specifications of special appliances or fire engines to ensure all staff can access ladders and equipment for example. An EIA was carried out to inform the specifications for the new HQ in Forest View Business Park, this included accessible premises and parking, audio loops in main meeting areas, accessible signage, catering that would accommodate specific dietary requirements and much more.

Engagement with the Sikh developed understanding of the cultural issues to be considered when redesigning breathing apparatus equipment. The monitoring of business fire safety community highlighted that Chinese business owners were the highest ethnic minority to be at risk of fire on their premises. This data was discussed with staff at the Black Voluntary Sector Network and used to create a business case for outreach work with the Chinese Community.

Community Safety work has targeted communities most at risk this includes older and disabled people. Staff are trained and equipped to provide specialist advice and information to these groups of people.

There has been very little recruitment activity but positive action initiatives are being developed in readiness for future recruitment drives. A number of work experience placements have benefitted from time at HQ including a number of women from Women Connect First.

The procurement process has been overhauled and equality and diversity mainstreamed through it. Evidence of equality and diversity practices is required of suppliers and this is proportional to the size of the contract. In an effort to encourage the voluntary sector to bid for public sector work tenders have been advertised via the Welsh Council for Voluntary Action.

We supported Internationally celebrated days in partnership with Cardiff Council, Cardiff University, Black Voluntary Sector Network, Race Equality First, LGBT Excellence Centre and Stonewall Cymru.

We introduced the People Ambassador project.

The Equality Task Group was established in 2009 to assist with the development of this plan. The value of the group has been recognised by staff and managers and so the group will continue to meet. Proposals for the future of the group include holding meetings on stations, involving station staff more, inviting speakers as well as overseeing the progress of this Strategic Equality Plan.