A veteran firefighter from Avon and Somerset has lost his attempt to prove he was pushed out of the service, closing the chapter on a 27-year career that began with commendations and ended in controversy.
Simon Bailey, once celebrated for his dedication, argued that the Fire Service had effectively forced him out. But a tribunal concluded that the disciplinary action taken against him was fair.
How a Colleague’s Complaint Sparked a Major Investigation
The situation began back in 2021 when firefighter Sasha Acheson, a former England Women’s rugby player, raised concerns about the atmosphere at her station.
She said the environment felt dismissive and inappropriate, and she believed she was being targeted by some colleagues, including her manager at the time, Dean Davies, and Watch Manager Bailey.
Her complaint triggered an internal investigation that uncovered ongoing inappropriate comments, outdated language, and an environment the service later admitted was openly sexist and unprofessional.
A Question of Language and Culture
One of the issues she highlighted was the frequent use of the term “fireman” rather than “firefighter.” While the word might seem small to some, Acheson said it was part of a broader pattern — one that made the workplace feel exclusionary.
Staff often used the term casually, and Bailey acknowledged during the investigation that although he knew the word was outdated, he never directly intervened. He described himself as “old-fashioned” and admitted that the language around the station “was not squeaky clean.”
The tribunal later found that it was Bailey’s responsibility, as the manager, to challenge this behaviour.
The Fire Service Confirms a Pattern of Behaviour
During the inquiry, the Fire Service confirmed that staff had made inappropriate remarks about women and that some managers joined in rather than correcting the conduct. Acheson also reported moments where she felt dismissed or spoken down to, leaving her feeling unsupported at work.
After the investigation, the service admitted that the environment had not met expected standards and agreed it was discriminatory.
Acheson Wins Her Case and Receives Compensation
Acheson eventually took her concerns to a tribunal, where she won claims of discrimination, harassment, and victimisation. She was awarded more than £52,000.
After her complaint, she went on extended sick leave, returning only after the legal process ended.
Bailey Faces Consequences — and Personal Strain
Following the findings, Bailey received a final written warning in July 2023. He wasn’t removed from his position, but the disciplinary ruling weighed heavily on him. He later said the process left him embarrassed and worn down.
He took time off on medical grounds and eventually resigned from his Watch Manager role in September 2023.
The Tribunal Rejects His Unfair Dismissal Claim
Bailey later argued that he had been effectively pushed out and that the service’s actions had left him no choice but to resign.
However, during the February 2024 employment tribunal, the judge determined that the Fire Service had acted reasonably in disciplining him, especially considering the environment he oversaw.
The tribunal ruled that the sanction did not destroy the working relationship or force his hand.
In the end, Bailey’s claim of constructive dismissal was rejected.
A Career Marked by Loyalty but Overshadowed by Mistakes
Bailey worked in the service from 1996 to 2023, progressing through the ranks and earning recognition along the way.
But ultimately, the tribunal found that he had failed to properly address behaviour that contributed to an unhealthy workplace culture — and that failing justified the disciplinary action taken against him.
What Happens Now?
The case has raised new discussions about leadership responsibility, workplace culture, and accountability in public services. Avon Fire & Rescue says it has strengthened its policies and training since the events took place.
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