Senior Firefighter Loses Unfair Dismissal Case Over Language Complaints
An employment tribunal has ruled that a senior firefighter was not unfairly dismissed after he failed to address colleagues using the term "fireman" towards a female firefighter. Simon Bailey, 58, a watch manager with Avon Fire and Rescue Service, lost his case after the tribunal found his disciplinary sanction was reasonable.
The Complaint and Investigation
The case centred on complaints made by firefighter Sasha Acheson, a former England rugby player, who reported persistent derogatory and offensive comments from colleagues in 2021. Ms Acheson specifically highlighted the use of the outdated term "fireman" and claimed she was also described as a stick with tits.
She approached Mr Bailey, her watch manager, for help in stopping what she described as sexist behaviour that belittled her. However, the tribunal heard that Mr Bailey, who had 30 years of service, did not take sufficient action to challenge his crew members' language.
Disciplinary Proceedings and Resignation
Following an investigation, Mr Bailey faced a disciplinary hearing in June 2023 for "failing to challenge inappropriate, stereotypical, demeaning and/or offensive comments." He received a 12-month final written warning but was not demoted.
Mr Bailey subsequently took sick leave, stating he felt humiliated by the proceedings, and resigned from his position in September 2023. He then brought his case for unfair dismissal to the employment tribunal in Bristol, which concluded in July 2025.
Tribunal Findings and Precedent
Employment Judge Richard Woodhead ruled on Tuesday that the fire service's sanction was appropriate. The judge stated the service had not acted in a way that destroyed the relationship of trust with Mr Bailey.
This case followed a separate successful tribunal claim by Ms Acheson in December 2023, where she was awarded more than £52,000. Her case established that she had been subject to a misogynistic and discriminatory workplace culture.
During proceedings, Mr Bailey acknowledged the term "fireman" could cause offence but described it as embedded in fire service culture. He described himself as old fashioned and admitted he might joke "you can't say that" but did not formally challenge the language used.
