In this second part of a three-part Policing TV series, Chief Constable Mark Roberts of Cheshire Constabulary explains the leadership approach behind Cheshire’s strong performance and why clarity, consistency and looking after staff matter so much in policing. He sets out the priorities he brought into the force, including protecting vulnerable people, tackling domestic abuse and sexual offending, and making Cheshire a hostile environment for criminals.

The conversation also explores the importance of performance management, staff wellbeing, operational leadership and consistency of purpose. Mark reflects on his former national role overseeing covert legislation and guidance, his experience working internationally through football policing, and the lessons he has learned from 33 years in policing as he approaches retirement.

The conversation continues on 22nd October, with Part Three exploring ‘why future police reform must be judged by one simple test: does it make the public safer and help policing deal with more criminals?’. Be sure to tune in.

Key takeaways

• Mark Roberts says strong leadership starts with absolute clarity about priorities, objectives and expectations.
• Cheshire has focused heavily on vulnerability, domestic abuse, sexual offences and protecting children.
• One of Mark’s core messages is that criminals should see Cheshire as a hostile environment.
• He argues that policing should focus on answering quickly, responding promptly, showing care and taking action.
• Looking after staff is essential because workforce morale directly affects how officers deal with the public.
• Consistency matters: leaders should avoid constantly changing priorities and instead stick with what is important.
• Mark says technology can support policing, but people with compassion and skills remain essential in areas like domestic abuse and sexual offending.
• After 33 years in policing, he says the people and the ability to make a difference are what he will miss most.

Chapters
00:27 – Leading Cheshire Constabulary
03:00 – What the public really wants from police
04:42 – The leadership lessons behind performance
06:00 – Why consistency matters in policing
07:19 – Leading on covert policing guidance
09:39 – How international relations shaped his career
10:50 – Policing football around the world
14:18 – What will he miss most after 33 years?

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