RESIDENTS are helping to shape their area’s policing priorities through a new citizens’ assembly.
More than 30 people from across Northwich and surrounding areas are taking part in the Cheshire police and crime commissioner’s (PCC) sessions, designed to give the public a direct voice in discussions about policing and safety.
The assemblies, led by PCC Dan Price, are part of his commitment to community-led policing and align with his police and crime plan, where listening to the public is one of three pillars.
Mr Price said: "It’s always encouraging to see local people coming together to talk openly about policing and safety in their communities.
"The success of our previous citizens’ assemblies has shown just how valuable these conversations are, giving residents a genuine opportunity to influence the issues that matter most to them.
"I’m looking forward to reviewing the feedback from this latest assembly and seeing how it compares with the insights we’ve gathered from across other parts of Cheshire.
"Each assembly builds on the last, helping us better understand community concerns, strengthen relationships between the police and the public, and ensure local policing reflects the needs of the people it serves.
"That ongoing collaboration is key to making our communities safer."
Participants are attending three, four-hour face-to-face workshops in Winsford in the next few weeks.
The sessions are designed to give the PCC a clearer understanding of community needs and offer residents a chance to learn more about the PCC’s role and the work of Cheshire Police.
Attendees are selected to reflect the demographic makeup of the area and represent a broad spectrum of experiences and views, from those with high levels of trust in the police to those with none.
Mr Price is the first PCC in the country to use citizens’ assemblies to help set policing priorities.
The approach aims to create a balanced, inclusive space where people of all ages and backgrounds can share their views - whether they have direct experience with the police, have witnessed crime, or simply care about community safety.
The first assemblies were held in Crewe and Nantwich in late 2024, followed by sessions in Runcorn and Widnes in early summer 2025, Macclesfield in autumn 2025, and Congleton earlier this year.
A total of nine assemblies will be held across Cheshire, covering every policing area.
Mr Price believes the assemblies will strengthen relationships between the police and the public while helping to ensure that policing in Cheshire reflects the true needs of its communities.
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