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Colleague Support NetworkEquality & Diversity

terms of reference

The Colleague Support Network (CSN) is an important part of East Sussex Fire & Rescue's overall strategy to deal with the issues of harassment, bullying and inappropriate behaviour in the workplace. The Service's policy on Harassment and Bullying highlights a zero tolerance towards these unacceptable behaviours and a willingness to take firm and confidential action to prevent it recurring.

• Policy on Harassment and Bullying [pdf, 215K, opens in new tab]

The Colleague Support Network can offer a strictly confidential support and advice service to members of East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service, who believe they have been subjected to inappropriate behaviour, which does not reflect our values, such as harassment or bullying.

The network will work with individuals to provide support to help develop a culture that reflects these service values in all environments and working practices.

The emphasis on the network is to provide support to individuals and to work

within and help develop a culture that promotes sound working practices.

The AIM of the Colleague Support Network is to:

• Offer a confidential support network, which is accessible to all employees.
• To ensure that no individual feels victimised, alone or without a voice or vehicle to speak out in a safe supportive environment.
• To raise awareness and accountability to prevent thus reducing incidents occurring, escalating or continue unnoticed.

Colleague Support Network Advisors will:

• Act as a point of contact for any employee affected by inappropriate behaviour in the workplace.
• Offer a private and confidential environment to encourage the recipient to discuss any personal concerns.
• Provide information on various options available that will help enable the recipient to determine a preferred course of action.

Colleague Support Network Advisors will NOT:

• Investigate alleged incidents.
• Take direct action on behalf of an employee, but (but in certain circumstances may accompany and support them in a future meeting).
• Put pressure on any employee to take a particular course of action.

Colleague Support Network Advisors

A current list of active Colleague Support Network Advisors can be found at every Service workplace or may be obtained from the Personnel Services Department at Service Headquarters.

The Colleague Support Network is not the only area of support available. In the first instance individuals can speak with their line manager if possible, or alternatively consider advice from representative bodies, Occupational Health or the Service Equality and Diversity Team.

YOU HAVE A VOICE, WE ARE HERE TO LISTEN