Over 100 women gather at SFRS recruitment event

Image by Logan Weaver via Getty Images

By Olivia Finlayson

More than 100 women gathered for a firefighter recruitment event outside Glasgow.  

Women from across Scotland were present at the event to be educated by real firewomen about what the job entails. The SFRS are preparing to breed the next generation of firefighters.  

The event took place at the SFRS Headquarters in Cambuslang, South Lanarkshire and aimed to achieve a more diverse work force by helping support underrepresented groups who are considering a job in the force.  

According to statistics women only make up 6% of the wholetime operational fire fighters in Scotland (220 out of 3,430). 

Firefighter poses in front of her truck via Getty Images

And only 14% of the total workforce which is 7,556. This includes operations control, on call and support staff.  

The event was nearing being sold out and supplied the women with information about the role, the recruitment process and the training needed for the role.  All the women had an opportunity to ask questions themselves and get advice from SFRS workers directly.  

Lorna Yuill, who is an experienced firefighter and officer based in Glasgow said: “Events like this are an important part of our work to ensure people have clear, accurate information about what a career in firefighting involves. 

“Increasing the number of women firefighters is not just about recruitment. A more diverse workforce helps build stronger teams, improves decision-making, and ensures the Service better reflects the communities of Scotland. 

Firefighters tackle a blaze in Glasgow City Centre via Getty Images

Creating space for experienced firefighters to share their journey is an important step in breaking down barriers and challenging outdated perceptions of the role.”  

The SFRS encourages that anyone who is interested in pursuing a career in firefighting, keep up to date with their social media and website. This will ensure they receive all recent information, their eligibility and guidance for completing applications.