Police community support officers (PCSOs)

PCSOs are established members of the policing family and provide a valuable, high visibility, easily accessible uniformed presence on our streets. They play a real part in keeping our communities safe.

They are often seen keeping a close eye on neighbourhoods, in and around schools and shops and working with Local Policing Team colleagues to find long-term solutions to often thorny problems like anti-social behaviour. This often involves working with partner organisations.

They frequently get involved in long-term and proactive crime prevention initiatives, like property marking and fitting number plates with tamper-proof screws. They provide public reassurance and help reduce the fear of crime.

PCSOs undertake an initial seven-week training course which is classroom based but involves practical exercises too. During this course they receive a law and legislation input that is relevant to their role. There are knowledge checks before they go on patrol.

Generally, PCSOs work 37 hours a week via a shift system including evenings, weekends and public holidays.

Process

If your application is progress, you will then be invited to undertake SIFT which is an online situational judgement assessment and then an in-force competency-based interview. If successful following these stages your pre-employment checks will include vetting, medical, references and biometric vetting.

PCSO Ian Bevis-Mott 

Ian is an integral member to the Bedford North Urban community team. He is recognised across the community as a friendly, helpful and reassuring face that people can rely on. He shares what his role involves and why he loves being a PCSO.