‘I want to make a difference’

25 July 2025

New branch secretary Chris Parker.

Stepping into the role of secretary of Derbyshire Police Federation, Chris Parker brings with him more than two decades of frontline experience, a passion for fair representation and a clear ambition to improve the support offered to members.

Chris began his policing career in 2003, joining South Yorkshire Police at the age of 22. He served predominantly in frontline roles in Sheffield, gaining extensive experience in public order policing, response and neighbourhood duties. He also worked in investigative roles with the violent crime team.

In 2017, Chris and his wife - also a serving police officer - transferred to Derbyshire and he became a workplace Federation representative in 2023, quickly discovering a new sense of purpose.

“I found the work I did as a Federation representative very rewarding,” he said, “And when Kirsty Bunn stepped down as secretary earlier this year, the opportunity arose, and I knew I had to take it.”

Chris is determined to be a strong voice for officers across the Force, particularly those on the frontline.

“It’s a difficult time to be a cop,” he continued, “Where is our voice? Where is our support? I want to change that. I want to make a difference. I want to feel like I’ve had a positive impact on our members.”

Understanding

Chris acknowledges that his first month in the role has been ‘challenging, busy and daunting’, as he transitions from operational policing to Federation leadership.

“It’s a very different way of working than being on the frontline,” he added, “But I’ve enjoyed it. It’s been a month of meeting people, understanding how the branch works, and starting to think about how we can improve the support we offer.”

Together with new Federation chair Lisa Flanagan, Chris is committed to bringing a ‘fresh set of eyes’ to the Derbyshire branch. 

He and Lisa have already set out clear priorities, with one of their main aims being to increase engagement with members and boost the visibility of the Federation.

“We have some incredibly hard-working reps, and we need to let people see that,” he said.

“And we need members to know that the Federation is here for all of them - not just when they need us, or when something goes wrong,” he explained.

“Members’ interests will always be our top priority.”

Campaign support

Mental wellbeing and support for mental health also rank high on Chris and Lisa’s agenda. They both strongly support ‘Copped Enough’, a national campaign recently launched by the Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW).

They also wants to build strong, respectful relationships with senior leaders within the Force.

“We want to have honest, open, and sometimes challenging - but always professional - conversations with senior officers,” he said, “That’s how we make progress for our members.”

Chris also took the time to highlight the essential work of office manager Jo Johnson.

He said: “Jo has made this last month so much easier for Lisa and I. She’s a huge part of the office - her role is vital and often overlooked. We’re both incredibly grateful for her support.”

As he settles into his new role, Chris is clear about his mission: fairness, visibility, support and, most importantly, making a difference.

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