#469 Domestic Violence in The Fire Service: When the Person who wears the Uniform Needs Protecting with Rhiain Akin

Me & Rhiain Akin of London Fire Brigade explore the reality of domestic violence within the fire service and why it must be recognised as a workplace issue, not just something that happens behind closed doors. Drawing on her own experience as a victim survivor and her work leading the Phoenix support network, Rhiain breaks down the many forms domestic abuse can take, from coercive control and emotional manipulation to financial and physical harm, and explains how these experiences directly impact performance, wellbeing and safety on the job. Together, we unpack the stigma, shame and cultural barriers that stop firefighters from speaking up, the hidden impact on colleagues and families, and the responsibility we all carry to look out for one another. This episode also highlights the practical steps organisations can take to support their people, from policy and training to flexible working and safe leave, and shows how small actions like listening, believing and asking the right questions can make a life changing difference. Find Rhiain HERE Access all episodes, documents, GIVEAWAYS & debriefs HERE Podcast Apparel, Hoodies, Flags, Mugs HERE Please check out our Partners supporting this episode are William Wood Watches - Discount code FFPODCAST gives the user 10% off full range on website FIRST TACTICAL- tactical gear for elite operators GORE-TEX Professional Clothing MSA The Safety Company JAFCO IDEX FIRE & EVACUATION SERVICE LTD Send us Fan Mail Support the show ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew

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#469 Domestic Violence in The Fire Service: When the Person who wears the Uniform Needs Protecting with Rhiain Akin is an episode from The Firefighters Podcast by Pete Wakefield.

This episode is 90:44 long.

This episode was published on Apr 30, 2026.

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