A firefighter has launched legal action against Avon Fire and Rescue Service following disciplinary measures taken against him for using the word “fireman”.
Simon Bailey, 58, who served for 27 years and had previously received commendations for his courage, faced a formal warning and demotion after allegedly failing to stop his team members from using what was deemed a “sexist” term.
The veteran firefighter has brought a constructive dismissal claim before an employment tribunal, challenging the service’s actions.
During proceedings in Bristol, Bailey’s legal representative, barrister Adam Griffiths, questioned Assistant Chief Fire Officer Luke Gazzard about enforcing standards regarding a term that has been in common usage for over a century.
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The disciplinary action emerged following allegations made by Sasha Acheson
Bailey described experiencing severe distress upon receiving the disciplinary correspondence.
He said: “When I received the disciplinary letter, I felt physically sick and devastated. I became a shell of myself.”
The disciplinary action emerged following allegations made by Sasha Acheson, a female firefighter who brought claims of sexual harassment, discrimination and victimisation at Bailey’s station.
The former England rugby international successfully pursued a sex discrimination and constructive dismissal claim based on sexual orientation grounds.
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Bailey described experiencing severe distress upon receiving the disciplinary correspondence
An investigation determined that a crew manager had directed inappropriate remarks towards Acheson, who identifies as gay.
She is expected to receive compensation exceeding £50,000 in a separate proceeding.
The former firefighter explained how the incident had fundamentally altered his perspective on his career.
Bailey said: “This is not how I wanted my 27 years of service to end.”
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The former England rugby international successfully pursued a sex discrimination and constructive dismissal claim based on sexual orientation grounds
He added: “I don’t tend to tell people I used to be a firefighter as I almost feel embarrassed because of the way I was treated.
“I have a letter of commendation from the chief, congratulating me on my service, but it’s just left in a drawer now.”
Emma Sole, representing Avon Fire and Rescue Service, argued that Bailey had failed to address a “serious grievance” in his capacity as watch manager.
The tribunal’s decision regarding Bailey’s constructive dismissal claim remains pending.