Text message surveys

Frequently asked questions

Cheshire Constabulary are currently trialling the use of new technology to conduct a range of its surveys.

This new method will involve a sample of our customers being supplied with a snap survey link embedded within a SMS text message, sent directly to their mobile phone.

This new way of working is not only more cost-effective but is also a more convenient method for people to provide timely and quick feedback to the Force.

Victims of domestic abuse and other more serious crimes won’t be sent an SMS, but will be asked their views via other methods, such as over the telephone by specialist staff from Leicestershire Police.

 

How will I identify the SMS text message you send?

Survey related text messages will be sent with an ID tag of either CP-RESEARCH or CHESHIREPOL

Suitable controls are put in place to ensure confidentiality and Cheshire Police will never ask for financial information, passwords, or PINs in any of its surveys.

 

What will the embedded survey link look like?

Whilst it may differ slightly dependent on the survey you are being asked to complete, the survey link should look similar to the below:

Do people have to take part?

As with all of our surveys, respondents do not have to participate, and you can simply delete the text message if you do not wish to take part.

If you have clicked on the survey link, you can choose to terminate completion of the survey at any point if you feel uncomfortable answering the questions posed – survey responses will only be seen by the Constabulary if you choose to submit them.

 

Will numbers ever be passed on to a third party?

No numbers will ever be passed on to a third party in order to make contact with you.

Is the information given by respondents kept safe?

Yes, any survey results shared with Cheshire are stored on our secure police servers based within the United Kingdom. We will review and retain information in accordance with force policies and the NPCC Review Retention and Disposal Schedule

 

Your rights

For further information on how the Constabulary uses your personal data, please refer to our Force Privacy Notice.