Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS) is proudly reflecting on a remarkable year marked by innovation, community engagement, and national acclaim.
In its 50th anniversary year, TWFRS celebrated five decades of service with a focus on transformation, sustainability, and a continued commitment to public safety. This milestone was fittingly recognised when TWFRS was named UK Fire and Rescue Service of the Year 2025 at the iESE Awards in London.
The success didn’t stop there – TWFRS was also named one of the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers by the Department for Education.
Delivering Excellence Across the Region
With 889 staff based at 17 community fire stations, TWFRS continues to deliver vital services across Tyne and Wear.
In 2024/25, the Control Room handled 32,477 emergency calls, answering 97% within seven seconds – a testament to the team’s speed and professionalism.
Firefighters responded to 17,401 incidents, including 1,716 primary fires and 4,134 deliberate secondary fires. With an average dwelling fire response time of 5 minutes and 44 seconds, TWFRS remains the fastest responding fire service in the UK.
Safeguarding Through Prevention
TWFRS carried out 26,957 Safe & Well checks, prioritising the most vulnerable households to reduce fire risk and improve safety.
Education teams engaged 34,736 young people through 739 school and college sessions, while initiatives like the Phoenix Project, King’s Trust, and Fire Cadets involved 395 participants, helping to shape safer communities and inspire future firefighters.
Community Impact Through Volunteer Support
79 volunteers contributed 2,307 hours across 180 events – a powerful example of community spirit and a valued contribution to public safety and engagement.
Investing in Innovation and Infrastructure
TWFRS strengthened safety and well-being through the procurement of 220 new Breathing Apparatus (BA) sets from Northumberland-based Draeger Safety UK Ltd, alongside the deployment of a new Welfare Vehicle based at Newcastle Central Community Fire Station to support crews during major incidents.
This investment extended to infrastructure with the opening of Hebburn Tri Station – the UK’s first carbon-neutral emergency services hub. Officially opened by HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, the station earned national praise, including Project of the Year at the Excellence in Fire and Emergency Awards.
Operational resilience also grew with the expansion of the Operational Support Unit, Enhanced Logistical Support Vehicle, and 24/7 rope and water rescue teams.
Building Stronger Partnerships
Partnerships remain vital to TWFRS’s impact. Collaboration with The Salvation Army ensured food and drink support during prolonged incidents, while a partnership with the Connor Brown Trust led to the installation of emergency bleed kits at key public locations.
To mark 50 years of service, TWFRS also held a Tree Planting Ceremony, honouring colleagues across the emergency services and key stakeholders in the community.
Pride, Recognition and Inspiration
TWFRS’s LGBTQIA+ Network proudly represented the Service at Northern Pride 2024, taking part in events including the Newcastle Frontrunners LGBT5K, Blue Light Breakfast, and the Pride in the City March.
Internationally, firefighter Vicky Haswell brought home three gold medals from the World Firefighter Games in Denmark, while the TWFRS football team claimed top honours in both the English and British Open Age competitions.
Looking Ahead
With 42 new firefighter recruits and a growing fleet of 188 vehicles, including 13 electric models, TWFRS continues to evolve – combining innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity.
A new mobilising system in the Control Room will further boost resilience and efficiency, ensuring the Service remains responsive to emerging risks and community needs.
Leadership Reflections
Deputy Chief Fire Officer Stewart Nicholson, said:
“We are proudly reflecting on the service’s achievements, in what has truly been a momentous year for everyone associated with Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service.
“The service could not have realised these goals without the passion and commitment of our colleagues, partners, and community associates. We intend to take this enthusiasm and drive and use it to build a foundation for the years to come.”
As TWFRS looks back on a milestone year, its mission remains the guiding principle:
“Together, we save lives, reduce risk, provide humanitarian services, and protect the environment.”
For more information please visit: https://www.twfire.gov.uk/
About the Author
Tyne and Wear Fire & Rescue Service
Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service serves a resident population of 1.104 million divided amongst the five constituent councils of Gateshead, Newcastle, North Tyneside, South Tyneside and Sunderland in the North East of England.
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