Being elected as the voice of the public in policing is a very privileged position, and one that I am honoured and excited to hold. I’ve served in public service for over a decade and sat on the final year of the Police Authority in 2012, but other than that I have no other ties to policing.
For those who aren’t sure, I’m not a police officer. I have no policing background, and this enables me to bring a different perspective ensuring the public’s voice is heard in this arena. My aim is clear, I want to help create thriving communities in Cheshire. I’ll do this by working with residents and groups across the county. I work closely with the Police, local authorities, charities, victim support services, and other Police and Crime Commissioner’s across the North West, ensuring we all find the best solutions for our communities.
I thought it would be beneficial to share an insight into some of the work I do.
Each working week starts with a meeting with the senior leadership team from Cheshire Constabulary – including the Chief Constable. This is where they share any incidents of note or things that it would be helpful for me to be aware of.
This meeting gives me the opportunity to challenge the Constabulary, feedback queries from the public, and ask the Constabulary to act. In the coming weeks, I’ll be holding my first public scrutiny meeting, in which members of the public are invited to attend and see first-hand how I hold the Constabulary to account on their behalf.
I visit all areas of the county and spend time with local councillors on walk arounds of their communities, highlighting issues they have. These are vital opportunities for me to find out what matters to the public and take away any actions and signpost information.
Prevention and intervention are two things that I’m very passionate about. We have lost so many brilliant youth and prevention services over the last few years and I believe that PCCs have a vital role in this area. I launched my SWAP fund last September – this community fund helps volunteers and community groups to provide prevention and intervention initiatives to help keep their communities safe.
The fund takes money seized from criminals and put it back into communities. A bit like a modern-day Robin Hood.
I received 150 applications for the fund, and I’ve been visiting organisations all over the county that have received funding and begun their projects.
I saw the vital work done by a charity helping people living with mental health concerns, providing important support empowering them to continue with their day to day lives.
I also visited a local boxing club, which provides activity sessions for young people, providing them with routine and discipline. The impact these two projects have on their respective communities is huge and demonstrates the importance of having a community fund which can be used in this way.
If you’d like to contact me, please email pcc@cheshire.police.uk (opens email application)
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