North Wales: Senior fire service staff under investigation for 'bullying or sexual misconduct'

An investigation has been launched into five senior figures in a Welsh fire service over bullying or sexual misconduct allegations.

A group of whistleblowers have spoken to WalesOnline about alleged culture of misogyny and sexual harassment at North Wales Fire and Rescue Service.All five staff under investigation have a rank of crew manager or higher, the fire service confirmed.

One is allegedly under investigation for his conduct towards four colleagues.

The service declined to comment on individual cases but said all concerns raised by staff are taken "very seriously".

Whistleblowers said the allegations against senior staff include verbal and physical abuse, unwanted sexual advances, unwanted physical contact and bullying and harassment.

Alleged victims, who are said to include junior female firefighters, have had "no resolution, no support from the service" despite some investigations being underway since the start of 2023, it is claimed.

The group of whistleblowers claimed there were staff under investigation who had not been suspended.

They said some alleged victims are "anxious and fearful", adding: "As a group we want the public to be made aware of this disgusting and disturbing behaviour of our professionals, as it seems the service is failing to make the right decisions and ultimately trying to brush it under the carpet."Chief fire officer Dawn Docx said: "Firstly, I would like to provide reassurance that we take any concerns raised by our staff very seriously and ensure we provide them with the appropriate support at all times.

"With any investigation into claims of misconduct, it is inappropriate to speculate or comment on a particular incident. We are committed to providing a positive work experience for all our employees, which includes a zero-tolerance approach to any inappropriate behaviour. There is absolutely no place for harassment, bullying or discrimination in our fire and rescue service.She continued: “We continually strive to achieve the best culture within our organisation in accordance with our core values, and have robust policies, procedures and guidance in place that support us in achieving the highest possible standards expected by members of the public.

"However, as with any organisation that employs over 900 people, we sometimes encounter concerns of conduct that does not adhere to our standards and our priority is to ensure these issues are identified, properly investigated and dealt with fairly, either informally or formally depending on their nature."When about criticism over an alleged lack of suspensions, the fire service said it could not comment on individual incidents but added that "subject to individual risk assessments which are under continual review, modified duties can be considered as a control measure to mitigate risk".

"There can be a natural expectation that whilst investigations are taking place those under investigation should be suspended." Ms Docx continued.

"This can sometimes be misunderstood as the challenge in any workplace is to be able to find a balanced approach that is fair to all, whilst continuing to protect the integrity of an investigation.

"The latest advice from ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) is that an employer should consider each situation carefully before deciding whether to suspend someone, and to look for alternatives.

“Investigating a concern can be a stressful time for everyone – the emphasis is on safeguarding all individuals so that they can continue to undertake important and meaningful duties, whilst also protecting their safety, wellbeing and mental health, and striving to find a positive balance. Furthermore, a comprehensive and thorough investigation can take time, which could exacerbate tense situations."She added: “I offer assurance to anyone who has been subjected to inappropriate behaviour that I will provide them with my fullest support and will do everything in my power to ensure that appropriate action is taken to stamp out such behaviour.

"We have robust processes in place to guard and act against inappropriate behaviour. It’s important that people feel comfortable in raising any concerns and we have several ways they can do this, including an independent and confidential phone line.“As a modern-day, forward thinking and progressive fire and rescue service we have made significant improvements in our culture in recent years and we abide by a clear code of ethics where equality, diversity and inclusion are woven throughout everything we do – but no fire and rescue service can ever afford to be complacent and there remains room for improvement for us all."