NFCC Digital, Data and Technology Awards 2026

For 2026 we see the return of the NFCC DDaT Awards which recognise and celebrate the achievements of DDaT activity in fire and rescue services.

The presentation of the awards will take place during the networking dinner on the 18th June at the NFCC DDaT conference, where winners will be announced on the night. By nominating an individual or team, you will be supporting their skills, dedication and commitment whilst also helping to raise the profile of DDaT work.

Make sure you register your attendance for the conference to be part of the night. Tickets are on sale now and further comms will be sent out to announce the agenda.

For all awards, the nomination should be relevant to activities which took place in the period since June 2025.

What are the categories?

These award categories are open to all DDaT colleagues

Inspirational Leader Award
The Inspirational Leader Award will be presented to an individual who has shown great contribution to the work of digital, data and technology. They are a committed individual who goes the extra mile to advocate and enable the development of DDaT activity. They have made a significant impact to national DDaT work to support the continual improvement of fire and rescue services. As a leader, they are hardworking and dedicated to all areas of DDaT in fire and rescue.

Team of the Year Award
The Team of the Year Award will be presented to a team that has demonstrated exceptional collaboration and impact in the fields of digital, data and technology. This team has shown outstanding commitment to driving forward innovative DDaT initiatives that support the improvement of fire and rescue services. Their work exemplifies cross-functional teamwork, creativity, and a shared dedication to delivering meaningful outcomes. They have made a significant contribution to the wider DDaT community and are a model of excellence in how teams can work together to achieve transformative results.

Outstanding Practitioner Award
The Outstanding Practitioner Award will be presented to an individual who has shown great contribution to the work of digital, data and technology. They are a committed individual who goes the extra mile to enable DDaT activity. They have made a significant impact to the work of their service and have shown flexibility, skill, and professionalism in their approach. As a team player, they are a role model for others and nurture the development of those around them.

Excellence in Data Award
The Excellence in Data Award will be presented to a team or an individual that can demonstrate evidence of a piece of data-focused work which has made a tangible difference to the functioning of their fire and rescue service. The work should be something which addresses a challenge that is common to fire and rescue services, or which could be adapted to meet the needs of other services.

Excellence in Digital Award
The Excellence in Digital Award will be presented to a team or an individual that can demonstrate evidence of a piece of digital transformation work which has made a tangible difference to the functioning of their fire and rescue service. The work should be something which addresses a challenge that is common to fire and rescue services, or which could be adapted to meet the needs of other services.

Excellence in Cyber Award
The Excellence in Cyber Award will be presented to a team or an individual that can demonstrate evidence of a piece of cyber-focused work which has made a tangible difference to the functioning of their fire and rescue service. The work should be something which addresses a challenge that is common to fire and rescue services, or which could be adapted to meet the needs of other services.

How to nominate

  • Nominate by clicking this link (opens ins a new tab): NFCC DDaT Awards 2026 – Nomination Form
  • Choose the category or categories for which you want to nominate the individual or team. If you are entering more than one category, please make a separate entry for each one.
  • Write an account of no more than 500 words saying why the individual or team should be considered, paying attention to the judging criteria outlined in the form.
  • Complete your nomination by the end of the day on Friday 15th May 2026.

Rules for entry

  • The awards are open to anyone working in a fire and rescue service or externally within other organisations that have championed the promotion of DDaT within the FRS sector.
  • All entries are treated confidentially.
  • Entries will be judged by a panel.
  • Entries are online only.
  • To attend the Awards Ceremony, you need to book a place at the NFCC Digital, Data and Technology Conference and dinner.