LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) History Month was marked by KFRS (Kent Fire and Rescue Service) with a public declaration of support.

The service decorated its community safety vans, which visit local people to deliver free fire safety checks, with a rainbow motif and messages backing the celebrations.

KFRS states that it is committed to engaging LGBT groups as they are both a "key risk group for fires" and are currently under-represented within the service nationally.

Steve Griffiths, Assistant Director for Community Safety at KFRS, said:
"There are some stereotypes about the fire brigade which can act as a barrier to people getting to the services which can keep them safer. We're concerned about this because issues such as lone living, drinking and smoking are key to fire risk, and common characteristics in LGBT communities. This is a dangerous combination and we're determined to better engage with LGBT people so we can reduce their risk."

"We're lucky to have existing LGBT staff who can help us do this - hopefully our activity during History Month will encourage more people from the community to consider careers with us. This isn't a one off - the vans are a small part the work we're doing internally and externally to engage this community."

Sue Sanders, Co-Chair of LGBT History Month and Schools OUT, said:
"This is a very clever and simple project which raises the profile of the service's commitment to LGBT and diversity issues."

For more information view:
www.kent.fire-uk.org