Pay for police community support officers (PCSOs) varies from force to force, usually starting at just over £16,000 (although those working in London will receive more), and rising steadily as you gain experience. For more information on salary and terms and conditions contact your local force
Can I apply even though I have a minor conviction?
Convictions and cautions can lead to rejection; however some minor convictions and cautions will not automatically lead to rejection. Each case will be considered and should be dealt with on its individual merits. For more information about criminal convictions for police recruitment see Home Office Circular (HOC 54/2003) which is available at www.circulars.homeoffice.gov.uk.
I’m between 18 and 21 years old, will my lack of life-experience automatically exclude me?
Life experience could be beneficial to your application, however it’s not a given criteria to join the service. You will pass the assessment process providing you can demonstrate the relevant competencies such as literacy, teamwork, resilience and excellent communication skills.
When will my preferred police force be recruiting PCSOs?
Police forces run their own recruitment campaigns. Check on the www.policecouldyou.co.uk website for information on when forces are recruiting or contact your local force.
Are there any part-time positions available?
PCSOs receive a wide range of benefits that include flexible working hours and some part time opportunities. For more detailed information, contact your chosen force or see www.policecouldyou.co.uk.
How long is the process from applying to the beginning of training?
From application to the start of training it could generally take around six months. This may vary in some forces and could be greater. For more information, contact your chosen force
How long is the training? How much training will I receive to prepare me for my role as a PCSO?
Each individual police force in England and Wales is responsible for developing their own PCSO training programme. The amount of training you will undertake to prepare you for your role as a PCSO will be determined, in part, by the powers a chief officer chooses to designate to PCSOs in their force. As a guide, the average PCSO course is five to six weeks long.
What influence/effect does the criminality of family members have? If they have lost contact with family members; how best to represent this on the form.
Thorough checks must be undertaken to ascertain whether anything is known to the detriment of the applicant or his/her family which could heighten vulnerability, bring discredit upon, or otherwise cause embarrassment to the police service. For more information about relatives and associates with criminal convictions or cautions see Home Office Circular (HOC 54/2003) which is available at www.circulars.homeoffice.gov.uk.
If contact with family members has been lost you will need to supply the last known address and supply details of their date and place of birth on the application form.
How strict are the conditions regarding business/licensing responsibilities and prohibition from becoming a PCSO?
You will not normally be eligible for appointment as a PCSO if you, your spouse or close relative hold or have a financial interest in any licence or permit relating to liquor licensing, refreshment house or betting and gaming of the regulation or places of entertainment in the area of the police force in question.
Hypothetically speaking; can the PCSO instigate programmes/activities such as youth interaction or public safety (home security, street lighting etc.) and gain funding for them? Or is the role limited to what is decided at higher levels of management?
The role of the PCSO is to work on the frontline providing a visible presence and tackling anti-social behaviour. This involves interaction with the public. PCSOs can get involved with community-based programmes; however, any funding issues should be dealt with via the Chief Officer. Depending on where you work your task may vary. More information is available on the website at www.policecouldyou.co.uk.