Age Equality

We are very aware that society has negative attitudes, stereotypes and myths about youth, ageing, younger and older people. It is these misguided attitudes and beliefs that can lead to the true needs of both younger and older people being overlooked. By recognising and challenging these assumptions we can provide a better service to everyone in the community, whatever their age. This requires us to adopt a variety of different approaches to the way we deliver our services.

We use data from a variety of sources, including the Census, to identify “risk groups” across the county based on factors which include age, ethnicity, social groupings, housing, single parenthood and illnesses affecting mobility or risk of accident. This information is then used to target community safety actions on the most vulnerable groups in the community.

We have been working with many different members of our community to help them prevent emergencies and to deal more effectively with situations when they happen. Through our work in partnership with agencies that represent the needs of older people we have been able to make improvements in the way we use our community safety resources. We also work with schools and colleges to educate young people on the dangers of careless driving and starting fires.

The effective retention, development and motivation of older workers is very important to Kent Fire and Rescue Service. It enables a better transfer of skills and knowledge to younger workers, retaining expertise, “know how” and contacts. However we also need to encourage and support young men and women from all communities to work with us.

Chapter 11: Age Equality|