Chief Constable Jo Shiner has been awarded the King’s Police Medal (KPM) in the King’s Birthday Honours List, marking more than three decades of distinguished service across three UK police forces.
Jo Shiner, who became the first female Chief Constable of Sussex Police in July 2020, was recognised for her 32-year career of operational excellence, national leadership, and commitment to community-based policing.
A Trailblazing Career Across Norfolk, Kent, and Sussex
Jo began her policing journey in Norfolk Constabulary in 1993, progressing through operational roles including CID, Public Protection, and Specialist Operations. She later joined Kent Police in 2014 as Assistant Chief Constable and moved to Sussex Police as Deputy Chief Constable in 2018.
Since her appointment as Chief Constable, she has become a national voice for policing professionalism and road safety, having qualified as a Firearms, Public Order, and Critical Incident Commander, positions she has held for over 20 years.
Championing National Road Safety
The medal also highlights Shiner’s work as the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) Roads Policing Lead, where she actively campaigns for stronger legislation and public awareness to cut road deaths.
"Jo meets regularly with families devastated by road collisions and uses their stories to shape national road safety strategy," said a Home Office source.
Passion for Community and Welfare
Chief Constable Shiner is also known for her charitable work. She serves as:
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National Ambassador for Oscar Kilo 9 (OK9) – the UK’s police wellbeing dog initiative
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Patron of Sussex Search and Rescue, Raystede Centre for Animal Welfare, and the Sussex Police Charitable Trust
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A dedicated supporter of RNLI, Beachy Head Chaplaincy, and Arundawn Dog Rescue
"This Honour Belongs to the Teams I’ve Worked With"
In a statement following the announcement, Jo Shiner said:
"I am incredibly proud to be the Chief Constable of Sussex Police and lead a workforce of such professional, dedicated, passionate officers, staff and volunteers.
This medal is a reflection of teamwork, and I’m humbled to accept it on behalf of those I’ve worked with across Norfolk, Kent, and Sussex."
Widespread Praise for Shiner’s Leadership
Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne said:
"Chief Constable Jo Shiner has provided inspirational leadership and outstanding service to Sussex. This King’s Police Medal is richly deserved recognition of her exceptional achievements and dedication."
Jo lives in Sussex with her husband Andrew and their rescue dog, Rocky.
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