Police Community Support Officer
What is the work like?
As a police community support officer (PCSO) you would work alongside the police, patrolling the local area, dealing with minor incidents and offences. You would provide assistance to the police and a visible presence in the area to reassure the public.
Your duties would vary depending on the needs of the police force and your local community, but are likely to include:
- dealing with incidents of nuisance and anti-social behaviour, such as truants, vandalism and litter
- directing traffic and having vehicles removed
- guarding crime scenes
- offering advice on crime prevention
- issuing fixed penalty notices for anti-social behaviour
- detaining someone until a police officer arrives
- providing support at large public gatherings, such as sports events and public demonstrations.
You could work alone or in pairs or small teams, under the direction of the police commander in your area.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
Local police forces set their own entry requirements so the following is intended as a general guideline. For more information, and to apply for a position, you can find local force contact details on the Police Service Recruitment site.
You will be selected for the role of PCSO based on your application and interview. You can apply if you have a permanent right to remain without restriction in the UK. Full security and reference checks will also be made.
You do not generally need formal qualifications, but you will need good spoken and written communication skills. You also need to be fit enough to carry out foot patrols, so you may be asked to take a fitness test.
A qualification in public service may give you an advantage when looking for work as a PCSO. Relevant qualifications include:
- NVQ Level 2 in Public Services
- BTEC First Diploma or National Diploma in Public Services
- BTEC National Certificate or Diploma in Uniformed Public Services
- foundation degree in Public Service.
Some police forces will also want you to have experience of working within the community (paid or voluntary), and it may be helpful if you have a driving licence.
What further training and development can I do?
Once you are working as a PCSO, you will have a period of training which can take between three weeks and three months, depending on the police force you join. As a new recruit you will initially go through an intensive induction programme, which is mainly classroom based. Training will usually include:
- an introduction to the role and duties of a PCSO
- relevant legislation
- first aid
- patrolling skills
- using police computers
- community awareness
- dealing with relevant paperwork
- radio procedures.
You will then be familiarised with your local force.
Throughout your career you will regularly take part in training and development sessions to keep your knowledge and skills up to date.
Where can I go for more information?
Centre CourtAtlas Way
Sheffield
S4 7QQ
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
Alternatively, you can visit our website at: www.direct.gov.uk/careersadvice
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What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Starting salaries can be around £16,000 a year.
- With experience, this can rise to around £19,000, plus a shift allowance.
- In some geographical areas PCSO salaries can be up to £25,000 a year.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
You would typically work shifts, including weekends and bank holidays. Shifts usually cover the hours between 8am and midnight, however, some forces use a shift pattern rota that operates 24hours a day. Part-time work may be available.
You would mainly be outdoors, patrolling residential and commercial areas on foot. You may also be involved in giving talks to community groups about crime prevention. You would wear a uniform and keep in contact with colleagues via a radio.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- excellent communication and listening skills
- the ability to make difficult decisions with confidence
- the ability to remain calm under pressure
- tolerance and a sympathetic approach
- assertiveness, and good powers of observation
- the ability to keep accurate and objective records
- good team working skills.
What opportunities are there?
Job opportunities are increasing throughout the country and you should contact your local force for vacancy details.
As a PCSO you may be able to use your experience to train and mentor new recruits or as a stepping stone into other areas of police work and become a police officer for example. However, you would still need to go through the traditional recruitment process and meet all the requirements. Check the Police Officer job profile for more information.
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