London Fire Brigade 'institutionally misogynist and racist'

The London Fire Brigade is "institutionally misogynist and racist" with a "toxic culture that allows bullying and abuse", an independent review has found. 

London Fire Brigade 'institutionally misogynist and racist'© Other

The review's author Nazir Afzal OBE said he and his team "found dangerous levels of ingrained prejudice against women and the barriers faced by people of colour spoke for themselves".

They were more likely to be subject to disciplinary action, less likely to be promoted and largely unrepresented at senior levels, and also frequently racially abused, he added.

There was also "clear evidence of racism, misogyny and bullying, which made it hard for many firefighters to do their job and forced others out of the Brigade".

London Fire Commissioner Andy Roe said: "Today is a very sobering day. There is no place for discrimination, harassment and bullying in the Brigade and from today it will be completely clear to all staff what behaviour isn't acceptable and what the consequences will be.

"I am deeply sorry for the harm that has been caused. I will be fully accountable for improving our culture."

The report said the disadvantage and discrimination affecting staff did not translate into its operations or impact the way it prevents and responds to incidents.

Mr Nazir and his team heard the experiences of over 2,000 current and former staff and the public, including members of the Grenfell community.

The report's conclusion said: "It was encouraging to see an increase in diversity at board level, including the first Asian director. But there needs to be more urgency in rooting out deeply prejudiced staff and inappropriate behaviour and attitudes because they undermine the hard work of the many decent, public spirited people in the Brigade.

"We also found that LGBTQ+ staff and people who are neurologically diverse are treated unfavourably compared to others."

In response to the review the brigade said it was making "immediate changes to provide increased protection for its staff," which will see anyone accused of discrimination, harassment and bullying suspended after a risk assessment. They will then be investigated and dismissed if the accusation is upheld.

It is also introducing an external complaints service for staff to report poor behaviour rather than having to report it internally, while improving internal the internal complaints process.