SOUTH YORKSHIRE’S CHIEF CONSTABLE CONFIRMED FOR FURTHER THREE YEAR TERM
Published 21 May 2026 at 11:35am
South Yorkshire’s Mayor, Oliver Coppard has confirmed Lauren Poultney’s continuation as Chief Constable of South Yorkshire Police for a further three years.Chief Constable Poultney took up post in June 2021 on a five-year contract after joining the force as Assistant Chief Constable in 2017 from Humberside Police. She later became Deputy Chief Constable in South Yorkshire before her appointment to her current role. The three-year extension will run through to June 2029.
Mayor Coppard, said: “Since becoming Chief Constable, Lauren has led South Yorkshire Police through a period of profound change, delivering real improvements in the things that matter most to our communities, from reductions in serious violence and firearms crime, to a clear focus on rebuilding trust and confidence in policing.
“She has been determined in tackling longstanding cultural and legacy issues within the force, while also leading a shift in how policing is delivered across South Yorkshire; one rooted in problem‑solving, partnership and prevention.
“All of this has been achieved against an extremely challenging national financial backdrop, and during some of the most difficult moments our county has faced, not least the events at Manvers and the response to the tragic death of Harvey Willgoose.
“Lauren’s leadership is also recognised nationally through her work on problem‑solving, and locally through her continued commitment to openness, transparency and accountability. I am confident that her continuation as Chief Constable will help us maintain momentum and continue to deliver the policing service South Yorkshire’s communities rightly expect.”
Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, Kilvinder Vigurs, said: “Lauren has provided strong, steady leadership for South Yorkshire Police, with a clear focus on community confidence, prevention, and protecting vulnerable people.
“I welcome the extension of her appointment and look forward to continuing to work together to build on the progress made and drive further improvements across the force.”
A police officer for 28 years, Ms Poultney has undertaken both uniformed and detective roles in a range of areas, including neighbourhood policing, major crime and protecting vulnerable people. Nationally she has led portfolios on Problem Solving and Crime Prevention, Wellbeing and Counter Corruption via the National Police Chief's Council.
Chief Constable Lauren Poultney said: “I’m delighted to be afforded the opportunity to continue leading South Yorkshire Police and offer stability through a period of significant change.
“As crime becomes ever more complex and we navigate local and national developments and challenges, I’m incredibly proud to lead an organisation of people who are steadfastly determined to deliver an excellent policing service on behalf of our communities.
“I am looking forward to continuing to lead this crucial work and to collaborate with partners to deliver against our policing priorities and help make South Yorkshire a safe and thriving place for all.”
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