The Board: governance and oversight
Sets strategic priorities and policies, appoints the Chief and Deputy Chiefs, and monitors the Chief’s performance.
Official responsibilities and legislative references (opens the official website in a new tab)
About the Board
Civilian oversight, in the public interest.
The Board sets governance direction for policing in Halton. It is not the Police Service and does not direct individual investigations or day-to-day police operations.
Our mission
Accountable policing, in the public interest.
Support the long-term safety and security of the community through accountable policing, public-interest oversight and clear policy direction. The Board represents community interests, establishes objectives and holds the Chief accountable for compliance with Board policy.
Historical principles
Peelian Principles
A plain-language summary of the historic principles referenced by the Board. These summaries are not quotations or a substitute for current law.
- Principle 1. Prevent crime and disorder.
- Principle 2. Recognize that effective policing depends on public approval.
- Principle 3. Build willing public cooperation in observing the law.
- Principle 4. Recognize the relationship between public cooperation and the need for force.
- Principle 5. Serve the law impartially, rather than seeking popularity.
- Principle 6. Use only necessary force when persuasion, advice and warning are insufficient.
- Principle 7. Maintain the connection between the police and the communities they serve.
- Principle 8. Respect the distinction between police responsibilities and judicial powers.
- Principle 9. Measure effectiveness by the absence of crime and disorder, not visible enforcement alone.
Read the principles on the official Board website (opens the official website in a new tab)
Roles and responsibilities
Who does what
The Police Service: operations
The Chief is responsible for operational policing. The Board does not direct specific operational decisions or day-to-day police work.
Visit the Police Service website (opens the official website in a new tab)
See governance in practice
Read the public record, meet the Board and learn how to participate.