Each year fire services, suppliers, industry supporters and more come together to celebrate the achievements of those in the fire and emergency services across the country. The awards are all about celebrating YOUR work, but you need to tell us about it first.

If you have been involved with or seen a project, team, individual or supplier who you think merits recognition for their work, then the EFEs are your chance.

So why submit nominations?


 

Celebrate achievements

This year, more than ever, it is vitally important to celebrate successes in the fire and emergency services. Fantastic initiatives have begun, partnerships have developed, new leaders have emerged and, of course, those across the emergency services have continued performing their jobs under some of the most difficult circumstances imaginable. Funding questions, new developments in threats and devastating events have challenged the sector, but we must continue to move progressively forward. The EFEs celebrate the achievements, innovations and developments in the sector that will influence the future, as well as remind us of the fantastic work going on every day.

 

Support equality and diversity

The EFEs also aim to promote equality and diversity within the fire service. Theresa May’s comment of ‘96 per cent white and 95 per cent male’ in 2016 rang true for many, and it is clear that the fire service suffers with a drastic lack of women and BAME individuals. However, the EFEs aim to recognise and share the achievements of both of these groups. Two years ago, the Most Influential Woman in Fire Award was introduced, as explained here by Catherine Levin, and last year the inaugural Most Influential BAME Individual in Fire Award was presented. These awards aim to promote the outstanding work these two groups have performed.

 

Acknowledge the challenges of the last year

There are two new awards to the event this year, which each reflect the changing nature of the challenges and events faced. The Fire and Emergency Resilience Award reflects the challenges this year has posed, and recognises the improvements of an individual or group in resilience arrangements against terrorism or natural hazard. The Emergency Service of the Year Award is open to any fire or emergency service who have demonstrated at least one of the following: a reduction in deaths and injuries; improved emergency response; excellence in operational response and significant advancements of improving lives in the community.

 

And a fantastic day

Then there are the practical benefits to attending. The EFE award ceremony itself, held at the prestigious One Great George Street, is a fantastic opportunity to network with fire and emergency services, suppliers, training providers and industry supporters, who all share the same aim of celebrating the incredible achievements of the last year. You can take a look back at last year’s winners and a few pictures of a fantastic afternoon here. Enjoy a delicious lunch, sociable drinks reception and the opportunity to celebrate the work you and others have done, all in one of London’s most attractive venues.

 

To submit a nomination:

Entering couldn’t be easier, you just need to provide 300-500 words on why the proposed individual or team deserves to win the award. You can find out more about the categories and submit your nominations here.