Citizens' assemblies
The Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) promised to conduct citizens’ assemblies across the county to hear the views of the community based on a representative group of people.
The citizens’ assembly programme is one of the ways the Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), listens to local people about policing and community safety. It gives residents a real say in shaping local police priorities – not just through surveys, but by bringing together a representative group of community members to talk, learn and decide together.
Why citizens’ assemblies?
Dan Price promised to have community-led policing plans. Citizens’ assemblies are one way he is achieving this – by involving people from across Cheshire’s communities directly in shaping what matters most for policing in their area.
Citizens’ assemblies make sure local voices are heard – people of different ages, backgrounds and experiences get together to give their views on crime, policing and safety.
How citizens’ assemblies work?
Here’s how the process normally runs:
Who takes part?
Residents are randomly selected so the group reflects the local population. For example, in age, gender and background.
What do participants do?
Members typically take part in three face-to-face workshops, over a number of weeks.
During this time they:
- Learn about the local policing and crime issues
- Hear information from experts and police representatives
- Ask questions
- Discuss and deliberate together
- Agree on local policing priorities that matter most to their area
Where do the assemblies take place?
Dan Price will run nine citizens’ assemblies which reflects the current neighbourhood policing model of Cheshire Constabulary. These areas are:
- Chester
- Crewe
- Congleton
- Ellesmere Port
- Northwich
- Macclesfield
- Runcorn
- Warrington
- Widnes
Why it matters
Citizens’ assemblies give residents a stronger voice in setting what local policing focuses on. They aren’t just about answering questions – they’re about having informed conversations, understanding trade-offs and agreeing priorities together.
By listening directly to local people the PCC can make sure policing plans are grounded in real community concerns, not just national-level policies.
Want to know more?
The workshops tend to be four-hours long, and take place over a 12 week period.
Citizens’ assemblies are only one avenue Dan Price is using to understand community views on crime and policing in their area.
Over his term work will be ongoing across the county to ensure residents are getting access to the services they need at the right time.
The programme was awarded a certificate of excellence by the iESE the public sector transformation awards 2025.
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