PC Chris McKee Honoured with National Award for Transformative Community Work in Lancashire
Police Constable Chris McKee has been presented with the prestigious Community Alcohol Partnerships (CAP) Outstanding Contribution Award, recognizing his exceptional leadership and significant impact in supporting young people and communities throughout East Lancashire.
What Are Community Alcohol Partnerships?
Community Alcohol Partnerships are community-led initiatives that unite local police forces, council authorities, schools, retailers, and various community groups. Their primary objective focuses on reducing underage alcohol consumption and associated harms, thereby improving public health and well-being while strengthening community cohesion.
Extensive Reach Across East Lancashire
Operating across the East Division of Lancashire Constabulary, PC McKee plays a central role in supporting CAP partnerships spanning multiple boroughs including Burnley, Rossendale, Hyndburn, Ribble Valley, and Blackburn with Darwen. His work demonstrates a comprehensive approach to community safety and youth development.
Innovative Virtual Reality Education Project
Chris is currently spearheading the next phase of an award-winning CAP innovation project that develops virtual reality resources utilizing alcohol education content created collaboratively with young people. This initiative delivers immersive learning experiences designed to reach hundreds of vulnerable young people across Lancashire.
Through his problem-solving approach, Chris has successfully brought together partners, schools, and specialists to make this groundbreaking project possible, demonstrating measurable results across the county.
Tangible Results in Community Safety
In Burnley, youth-related anti-social behavior has decreased to its lowest recorded levels, significantly below both national and regional averages. Meanwhile, in Blackburn, partnership interventions have led to measurable reductions in risky behaviors among young people, including a notable 10 percent drop in anti-social behavior in identified hotspot areas compared with the previous year.
Transformative Project in Burnley
One of Chris's standout achievements involves the transformation of the Pheasantford Green area in Burnley, where residents had experienced persistent youth-related anti-social behavior. By analyzing data, listening to resident concerns, and forming creative partnerships, Chris collaborated with Burnley College and housing provider Calico to install protective gates at vulnerable properties as part of a practical student project.
This innovative solution, combined with targeted police patrols, resulted in a significant and sustained reduction in incidents while providing college students with valuable hands-on experience in community safety projects.
PC McKee's Personal Reflections
Chris commented: "I began working with CAP approximately two years ago, initially with limited understanding of their operations. At that time, I had just assumed the role of East Lancashire's ASB and Prevention Officer and was actively seeking new partnerships to address anti-social behavior across the region."
"After attending my first CAP meeting, I immediately recognized the value of participating in as many CAP groups as possible across East Lancashire. It quickly became evident that this platform, bringing together like-minded and dedicated professionals, could play a crucial role in supporting several projects I was planning."
"The CAP has enabled me to build strong and meaningful connections with individuals who share the same commitment to safeguarding young people and driving positive change within our communities. Effective partnerships are essential for successful problem-solving, and we've witnessed substantial outcomes across the CAPs in East Lancashire."
"One of the most significant achievements has been addressing vape-related substance misuse among juveniles, which had been contributing to risky alcohol-related behaviors. I'm grateful to all the CAP chairs and attendees who have helped turn our prevention ideas into reality. This award simply wouldn't have been possible without the support and commitment of everyone involved."
Recognition from CAP Leadership
Commenting on the award, CAP Director Kate Winstanley stated: "PC McKee has made an extraordinary contribution to improving outcomes for young people and communities across East Lancashire. His ability to bring partners together, solve complex local problems, and scale up successful prevention initiatives has delivered real reductions in anti-social behavior and alcohol-related harm."
"Chris exemplifies the collaborative spirit at the heart of CAP and is a truly deserving recipient of the Outstanding Contribution Award."
Chris received his award during a ceremony held at the House of Commons on March 2, 2026, marking a significant milestone in his community-focused policing career across Hyndburn, Ribble Valley, Pendle, Burnley, and Rossendale in East Lancashire.
