A new campaign has been launched today to encourage individuals to apply for the role of Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) in London, with the aim of building stronger neighborhoods in the city. The recruitment drive, funded by the Mayor of London, will increase the number of PCSOs in the capital by over 40%, reaching a total of more than 1,700 community support officers.
The campaign, titled ‘Say Hello to…’, features real PCSOs who share their experiences and highlight the everyday situations they encounter while fighting crime and supporting victims. It emphasizes the essential skills and local knowledge PCSOs utilize in their daily work.
Victor, Marina, Louise, and Akinseye, who are featured in the campaign, explain their motivations for joining and discuss the most rewarding and challenging aspects of their roles. Victor, a former Hong Kong police officer, has been a PCSO for 20 years, while Marina has been in the role for two months. Akinseye, previously working in security and serving as a part-time pastor, is now a PCSO in Greenwich. Louise, a former estate agent, has been a PCSO for 16 years and works in Harrow.
PCSOs play a crucial role within the Metropolitan Police family, building trust with communities and engaging in various tasks, from policing high-profile events to ensuring the smooth operation of the road network. The campaign emphasizes the importance of communication and connection with individuals in the community to maintain neighborhood safety.
Successful applicants will receive comprehensive training covering the necessary knowledge, skills, and legal powers required to fulfill their duties, including first aid and personal safety. They will be equipped to handle various challenges with confidence and serve their community effectively.
New PCSOs can expect a starting salary of approximately £30,232 per year, along with potential additional shift allowances ranging from 12.5% to 20%. Other attractive benefits include 28 days of paid annual leave (increasing to 33 days after five years of service), access to a civil staff pension scheme, and free travel on London’s buses while on or off duty.
Commander Dr Alison Heydari from the Front Line Policing Command expressed the significance of community policing and the opportune moment to join as a PCSO. Working alongside police officers and volunteers, PCSOs have the power to make a real difference in local neighborhoods and in the lives of residents.
The Metropolitan Police is committed to rebuilding trust and partnership with communities, placing a strong emphasis on community policing. By working collaboratively to address the issues that matter most to Londoners, they aim to create safer environments.
Mayor Sadiq Khan highlighted the progress being made in London, with a reduction in violence and knife crime defying the national trend. The 500 new Police Community Support Officers, funded by the Mayor, will contribute significantly to further reducing crime, enhancing community relations, and rebuilding public trust in the police force. The initiative aligns with the Commissioner’s Turnaround Plan for the Met.
Becoming a PCSO offers a unique and rewarding role at the heart of efforts to create safer communities. Individuals from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply and be part of the transformative change desired in the police force. Together, they can work towards building a safer London for everyone.
To learn more about becoming a PCSO in London, individuals can search ‘Met PCSO’ for additional information.
