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Having diabetes is no longer a barrier to having a successful career in the Fire Service, according to a new report.

Research carried out by charitable organisation Diabetes UK has analysed the treatment of employees with diabetes in the service since the extension of the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) in October 2004 to include the emergency services.

Simon O'Neill, director of care at Diabetes UK, said: "We know there is no reason why firefighters and control staff with well-controlled diabetes should not be able to carry out their duties."

Under the DDA, employers can no longer have blanket bans on the recruitment of people with diabetes in place. Moreover, firefighters who develop diabetes while in service must be reasonably accommodated.

Mr O'Neill added: "This report helps us reinforce the message that each person with diabetes must be individually assessed before any decision is taken regarding their fitness to undertake duties.

"The recommendations contained in this report will help us to promote good practice and start a constructive dialogue with employers."

The report highlighted a variety of issues including inconsistencies around the application of individual medical assessment, confusion regarding the current driving guidelines and in some cases a lack of awareness about diabetes.

Every fire and rescue service in the UK will receive a copy of the report.