Police Community Support Officers

I’ve had a variety of jobs over the years ranging from working in a pet shop to being a VIP escort at Harrods, but being a PCSO is the best job I’ve ever had.

I work specifically in the Marine section of Essex Police, which means that I’m responsible for patrolling the coastline throughout the day, visiting marinas and beach huts to check everything is ok. I’ve even received additional training for sea survival and capsize courses just in case an incident happens when I’m out on patrol. This kind of training is obviously specific to my role but when you become a PCSO you receive all kinds of training to help you do your job.

Getting the opportunity to interact with members of my community is one of the best aspects of my job. I get a real buzz when people tell me that they feel safer as a result of what we do as PCSOs.  I also have the opportunity to help educate young people about water safety and crime prevention as I regularly give talks at school fetes, Scouts meetings and yacht clubs.

Being a PCSO means that you come into contact with people from all walks of life – from the homeless to millionaire yacht owners. As a result, I feel much more rounded as a person and have learnt not to stereotype people and to be more accepting in general. If you’re interested in making a difference to people’s lives as well as giving your own life a boost, then why not consider becoming a PCSO?

"I wanted a job that took me out of an office and into the community and becoming a PCSO did that for me," says Rachel.

Working in a housing estate ridden with drugs problems and anti-social behaviour, Rachel's job involves keeping and eye on residents with ASBOs and serious drug addictions, as well as solving disputes between neighbours.

"When we first started, people hadn't a clue was PCSOs did. Now we've won over the local community and it's a good feeling when residents come up to us to share their problems"

Rachel enjoys visiting schools and getting to know the children on the estate. "They know I can help with their problems. I love the fact that I have won their trust."

A typical day for Steve involves ensuring a visible presence by patrolling the streets on foot. He also reacts to incidents where his main role is to gain intelligence, assess the situation and decide whether to call on his regular police colleagues to help out.

Steve feels that being a PCSO can be challenging. "It's a relatively new role so we have to work pretty hard to make our presence known in the community and convince people of the value that we contribute to the area," he says. "The great thing is that people now respect what we do and know that it's my job to help them."

There have also been proud moments for Steve like the time he received a Divisional Commendation Award for good work and positive action on the estate he patrols. "It's a great feeling to be recognised by colleagues for the work that I do," he says.