Awards

The Women in the Fire Service Awards 2024

Our awards recognise and honour the hard work and valuable contributions made by individuals in the UK Fire and Rescue sector.

We are thrilled to announce the return of The Women in the Fire Service Awards with a fresh new look and feel. This year, the WFS Awards introduces four new award categories, to celebrate even more inspiring people.

Nominations for the awards are now open. Details about eligibility requirements, and submission guidelines and the timeline of the award process can be found below. Nominations close on the 1st March 2024. 

The awards ceremony will take place in June during our Training and Development Event and is invitation only. Dates to be confirmed shortly.

We are also looking for award sponsors. If you are interested please email marketing@wfs.org.uk.

Award categories: 

Exceptional Allies  

Recognise an individual who has gone above and beyond in advancing gender equality within their organisation or has made a substantial contribution in assisting colleagues to reach their highest potential. Eligibility: This award is open to all and there are no age limitations. 

Bright Light 

To appreciate an individual who has made a significant impact in furthering our objectives. They will have paved the way in their capacity within the fire service, serving as an inspiration to others. This may be through recruitment, retention, advancement of women or facilitating women’s growth, through enhanced access to opportunities and resources such as training and events. Eligibility: There are no age restrictions, and this award is open to women and individuals identifying as non-binary. 

Dany Cotton Inspiring Leader 

Designed to honour a remarkable leader who is a champion for equality and diversity. They deliver real change and inspiring the fire service community while bringing out the best in their colleagues. Eligibility: There are no age restrictions, and this award is open to women and individuals identifying as non-binary. 

Firefighter Rising Star 

We would like to celebrate a firefighter who has showcased unwavering commitment to excel in their duties. They have actively advocated for gender equality and empowerment. Eligibility: There are no age restrictions, and this award is open to women and individuals identifying as non-binary. 

Youth Inspiration 

To honour a young individual within the fire and rescue service who exemplifies exceptional role-modelling. They actively engage in and spark discussions, initiatives, and positive results regarding equality and diversity matters. They truly embody the ethos of “if you can see it, you can be it.” Eligibility: Recipients for this award range from 11 to 24 years of age, and it is inclusive, welcoming nominees of all gender identities. 

*New* Digital Trailblazer 

To acknowledge individuals in the fire service who utilise social media to inspire, educate, and positively influence people about fire service careers. This award spotlights those who break barriers and encourage diversity in the fire service through their online presence. Whether sharing personal journeys or building supportive communities, this person should use social media to ignite enthusiasm and empower individuals from all backgrounds to explore and pursue this career. Eligibility: There are no age restrictions, and this award is open to women and individuals identifying as non-binary. 

*New* Outstanding Team 

We want to recognise outstanding teamwork within the fire service. Whether they’ve executed daring rescues, pioneered training programs, or led community initiatives, this award celebrates exceptional collaboration, unity, and excellence in the fire service. It highlights the collective efforts that make a real difference in ensuring the safety and well-being of communities. Eligibility: It’s open to all fire service teams, any gender, with a minimum of two members, and there are no age restrictions. 

*New* Fundraising Heroes  

This award honours individuals or groups who have demonstrated exceptional dedication in raising funds for a charity. Whether it’s an individual’s tireless efforts or the collective teamwork of a group, this award recognises outstanding contributions from those who have gone above and beyond to fundraise to help support a charity to continue their essential work and help those in times of need. Eligibility: The award is open to both individuals and teams, without any age restrictions and open to all. 

*New* Advocate of Excellence  

We would like to celebrate a Local or Regional Representative who have been instrumental in advancing our mission and contributing to the development of a more progressive Fire and Rescue Service for women. It serves as a recognition of their dedication, tireless efforts, and unwavering commitment to our cause. These representatives play a pivotal role in driving positive change within their local or regional contexts, ensuring that women in the Fire and Rescue Service are supported, empowered, and represented effectively. Eligibility: Must be a WFS Local or Regional Rep. No age restrictions 

Make your nomination below: 

Step 1 of 2
The judging panel reserve the right to select an alternative category for your nominee to be considered in.
If not applicable please state N/A
We need this information so we can contact them.
Please ensure you have permission to share your nominees contact details.
Please sign here to confirm your nominee is aware you're submitting them for an award and that you have permission to share their contact details.
Please check the criteria on our website to give your nominee the best chance of being shortlisted. Extracts may be shared publicly on social media, our website and in a press release.
Extracts may be shared publicly on social media, our website and in a press release.
Click or drag files to this area to upload.You can upload up to 3 files.
Supporting material may include photographs of the nominee, documents, testimonials, or video. We may use the supporting material, including images of the nominee publicly.
 

Take a look at our 2023 awards and who had the honour of being one of our winners or runners-up in our awards news here.

#WFSAwards24