In this final part of our three-part conversation, Chief Constable Serena Kennedy KPM reflects on the future of policing, the challenges ahead, and her own next steps as she prepared to retire from her role as Chief Constable of Merseyside Police.

With insight gained over a 32-year career, Serena explores some of the most pressing issues facing UK and international law enforcement today — from declining public trust and fiscal pressures, to the need for innovation in technology, prevention, and leadership.

She also shares personal reflections on leadership, legacy, and her hopes to stay connected with policing through national work on prevention, police reform, and leadership development.

Takeaways

• Trust in policing is a major challenge after years of high-profile incidents.
• Merseyside Police faces a £30m savings challenge despite rising demand.
• Police are often the “service of last resort” due to cuts in other services.
• Technology and AI must be embraced more quickly across policing.
• Prevention is key — with a focus on youth, partnerships, and problem-solving.
• Future leaders must understand politics and build strong relationships early.
• Serena plans to stay involved in leadership, prevention, and reform after retiring.

Chapters
00:00 Future Challenges in Policing
04:15 Reflections on a Policing Career

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