Freedom of Information (FOI)

The FOI Act gives a general right of access to all types of recorded information held by public authorities. Some information may fall under one of the exemptions under the Act and, therefore, may not be released.

You will be able to make a written request for information held by County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service which is not already published elsewhere, and is not exempt under the FOI Act. This is known as the general right of access.

Making a request for Information

We already make a lot of information available, so check first our publication scheme links below.

If the information you require is not contained in the publication scheme then you should apply in writing to:-

Data Protection Officer
County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service
Fire and Rescue Service Headquarters
Belmont Business Park
Durham
DH1 1TW

Email: DPO@ddfire.gov.uk

When requesting information please include the following details:

  • Your name and address
  • The information or documents you would like to access
  • The way in which you would like the information to be sent to you
  • Contact telephone number (this is optional but it may be helpful if we need to clarify the information you have requested)

When will I get a reply?

Your request will be acknowledged within five working days and the information you require will be sent directly to you at the postal or email address which you have supplied.

We aim to despatch the information as soon as possible and in any case within 20 working days of receiving your request. If we have not responded within this time, please contact us immediately.

Further Information

You can also obtain information from the Information Commissioner’s website at: www.ico.org.uk or call the enquiry line on 0303 123 1113 or 01625 545745.

The Publication Scheme

County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service aim to provide as much information about us as possible in line with the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act 2000. This website acts as our publication scheme and this guide should assist you in finding the information you are looking for quickly and easily.