Firefighters, police and council officials in Darlington have joined forces to tackle anti-social behaviour and crime under a new three-year plan running from 2026 to 2029.
County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) is supporting the Darlington Community Safety Partnership (CSP) Plan, which aims to prevent crime and disorder through early intervention.
What the plan covers
The strategy focuses on anti-social behaviour, drug and substance misuse, and support for victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence. The plan has been shaped by views shared by Darlington residents during consultation and community surveys.
Deliberate fires remain a concern
CDDFRS figures show the service attended over 1,000 deliberate fires between January and June 2026. This summer, crews have worked with partners and police on walkabouts in hotspot areas for deliberate fires and have delivered talks in schools to educate young people about the risks.
Partnership approach
Graeme Carr, Head of Community Risk Management at CDDFRS, said the service is committed to working with partners to create safer communities in Darlington and County Durham through shared expertise and aligned resources.
Councillor Jim Garner, Darlington Borough Council's cabinet member for stronger communities, said the plan sets out a vision for prevention and early intervention to tackle the root causes of crime and anti-social behaviour over the next three years.
The full Community Safety Partnership Plan for 2026-2029 is available online.