SWD News

07/01/2026

This is your chance to shape policing priorities, influence how resources are used, and help ensure that issues like anti-social behaviour, police visibility and dangerous driving are taken seriously.

06/01/2026

Students have warned that spiking is a ‘big issue’ in Durham as police chiefs unite to protect the public and support victims, writes Local Democracy Reporter, Bill Edgar. A survey by Durham’s Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Joy Allen found that around seven in 10 Durham University students surveyed said spiking should be a clear priority for the police, with 47% of Durham University students believing spiking is a ‘big issue’. Last week, Commissioner Allen hosted PCCs, policing leaders, and partners from across the region at a roundtable event to examine current intelligence and trends related to drink and needle […]

Students have warned that spiking is a ‘big issue’ in Durham as police chiefs unite to protect the public and support victims.

06/01/2026

More than 4,000 former North East mineworkers and pit staff across the UK will receive their first pension increase, with an average uplift of £100 a week.

28/12/2025

A council has partnered with Sport England to get people in County Durham moving by increasing accessibility to sport and physical activity.

20/12/2025

Since March 2025, S&DR200 has captured the imagination of hundreds of thousands of people from across the globe with a vibrant cultural programme that has used culture as a tool to tell stories of international importance.

20/12/2025

A council’s tally of the number of rough sleepers in County Durham has been questioned.

19/12/2025

A partnership that launched a pioneering recycling service in the region has won a prestigious gong at the National Recycling Awards 2025.

19/12/2025

The rising costs of children’s services and social care are significantly impacting the budget of the North East’s largest local authority.

18/12/2025

2025 has been another successful year in the community for Trades4Care.

18/12/2025

We are now closed for Christmas! 🎄

Thank you to all our readers, members, contributors and businesses for your support throughout the year. We hope you all enjoy a relaxing festive season and a peaceful new year.

Our office will reopen on Tue 6 Jan. See you in 2026!

18/12/2025

Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen is asking residents how much more they are willing to pay to prevent crime and protect their families and communities from harm.

18/12/2025

Residents in County Durham are being reminded of changes to bin collections over the Christmas period.