West Midlands Fire Service

Ranked No.5 – 2024/2025

Introduction

West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS), the second-largest fire and rescue service in the UK, has once again earned a high-ranking position in the Inclusive Top 50 UK Employers Report for 2024/25, coming in at fifth. Its unwavering commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion is reflected in its innovative practices, comprehensive policies and community-focused initiatives. West Midlands Fire Service protects one of the most diverse populations in the UK. As well as attending emergencies, its members carry out checks in people’s homes and work with businesses to help keep their employees and customers safe.

WMFS’s commitment to equality is demonstrated by its record in reducing the gender pay gap, now at its narrowest since 2017 and reflective of its ongoing efforts to create a more equitable workplace. The senior leaders and CEO, Oliver Lee OBE, have pledged to root out harassment, bullying and discrimination, leading with zero tolerance for toxicity. It is clear from their submission that WMFS strives to be a beacon of inclusivity for colleagues of all backgrounds, serving a community with excellence that sets a benchmark for inclusivity and respect. This report outlines the achievements that establish West Midlands Fire Service as a leader in workplace inclusivity.