Cheshire Constabulary reaffirms commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant

A ceremony to reaffirm Cheshire Constabulary’s commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant was held at the officers’ mess at C Squadron Queen’s Own Yeomanry at Fox Barracks in Chester.

The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise by the nation that those who serve or have served, and their families, are treated fairly. 

The promise is not to be taken lightly and Chief Constable Mark Roberts thought it right that the force reviewed its pledge to uphold the values of the covenant. 

In the last year, Cheshire Constabulary’s first Armed Forces Reservist Policy was published, the process for recruiting service leavers was re-examined and the support of veterans’ charities continued.  

The review was so significant that the Chief Constable, already a signatory of the covenant, thought it appropriate to re-sign it. 

The re-signing ceremony took place on Tuesday, 14 December 2021 at two locations: firstly, in the officers’ mess of the Queen’s Own Yeomanry and, secondly, in the reception area of Police Headquarters, Winsford.    

The re-signing was witnessed by Colonel Chris Ledsham, Deputy Commander 11 Signal and West Midlands Brigade. 

The re-signed covenant was then handed to Captain Steve Holland, Queen’s Own Yeomanry (PC Holland of Cheshire Constabulary) to transport to Winsford HQ on a Jackal fighting vehicle.

The Chief Constable, joined by Deputy Chief Constable Chris Armitt, members of Cheshire Constabulary and guests, welcomed the Jackal vehicle carrying the covenant, which was delivered by Captain Holland and received by the Chief Constable. 

Chief Constable Mark Roberts commented: “Both the DCC and I take a keen interest in the Armed Forces Covenant. The covenant is a mark of the public’s respect and esteem towards the Forces Family and, with this re-signing ceremony, we are formally restating our absolute commitment to it.  

“We actively encourage veterans who are looking for a career change to join our policing family here in Cheshire. We recognise the unique skills and life experiences that many veterans can bring to the force.”  

Deputy Chief Constable Chris Armitt added: “I am immensely proud to have been a police officer for the last 32 years; however, I have never forgotten my earlier military background and entry route into the police service. I understand the importance of this career transition and the benefits that can be realised for both Cheshire Constabulary and ex-services personnel. We must ensure we create an accessible route for them looking to join the force.”  

A framed copy of the re-signed covenant is now displayed in the reception area, next to a print of ‘Yr Arwr’ (The Hero) by Graham Evans VR, near the Force Memorial. 

Graham commented: “Today’s event was a combination of things, an occasion on which the Chief Constable reaffirmed the force’s commitment to the Armed Forces Community, both in the force and the wider community, by re-signing the Armed Forces Covenant in the presence of guests representing the Armed Forces and Cheshire Constabulary. Also, a celebration of Cheshire Constabulary receiving the prestigious Silver Employer Recognition Award from the Ministry of Defence with a view to gaining gold level in the New Year. Our commitment to forces’ charities, such as Woody’s Lodge, will assist us in gaining that. And lastly, the unveiling of a print of my painting ‘Yr Arwr’. Currently the painting is being exhibited in the regimental museum in Caernarfon Castle, but it is pleasing to see a print being displayed in my place of work, part of the proceeds from each print are going to regimental charities.”

Pictured - Col Chris Ledsham and Chief Constable Mark Roberts.