Picture via Twitter

 

The London Fire Brigade (LFB) in Greenwich has accused the BBC of sexism following the use of the term 'fireman' on a show aimed at preschoolers.

 

CBeebies show Hey Duggee follows 'The Squirrel Club', a fun activity group for kids. In the episode 'Dressing Up Badge', a baby squirrel dresses up as a 'fireman'.

 

One retired female firefighter watching the programme was disappointed that she had to explain to her two-year-old grandson why this 'outdated' term was used.

 

The former firefighter told the LFB Greenwich, "I was one of the first few women firefighters in the London Fire Brigade back in the 80’s, I did 30 years service & I have been retired for nearly three years. It breaks my heart to still have to point this out - especially whilst viewing with my grandchildren."

 

 

The LFB Greenwich went on to explain, "This term is VERY outdated and the term ‘Firefighter’ is the preferred respectful, inclusive, non-sexist, non-gendered term that should be being widely used by all media but especially the BBC."

 

They pointed out that using incorrect terminology can discourage young women from joining.

 

This comes after the #FirefightingSexism campaign was launched in October 2017 by London Fire Commissioner, Dany Cotton. She noted, "The first woman firefighter joined London Fire Brigade in 1982 and it’s ridiculous that 35 years later people are still surprised to see women firefighters or calling them firemen." 

 

"I want to shake off outdated language which we know is stopping young girls and women from considering this rewarding and professional career."

 

 

CBeebies responded to LFB Greenwich's comments about the show on Twitter, asking them to submit an online complaint. The firefighters thanked them, saying that the woman in question had already written to the BBC directly but was ignored.

 

A BBC spokesperson addressed the issue, telling Metro.co.uk, "Within the wider context of the Hey Duggee 'Dressing Up Badge' episode animated characters are shown dressing up in costumes depicting roles such as a plumber, pirate, knight and farmer but these roles are occupied by girl characters as well as boys, is done without comment and infers these roles are all gender-neutral."

 

"CBeebies strives to avoid stereotyping and looks to celebrate strong female role models with characters such as Nina who a scientist, Go Jetters’ Zuli who is a pilot, and female engineer, Bitz, in upcoming series Bitz and Bob."

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