Police community support worker

Police community support officers (PCSOs) play a vital role in making communities safer and more secure.

They work to support normal community policing, bringing a visible presence to town centres, housing estates and shopping centres in the fight against antisocial behaviour.

PCSOs normally act as foot patrols in a specific area, getting to know the local community and dealing with incidents that do not need full police powers. Officers can also be used to help carry out other routine police duties, such as controlling traffic and acting as stewards at public gatherings.

Did you know?
Many PCSOs have gone to work in other parts of the police service. Some have become full-time police officers and others have even gone on to fill civilian roles in murder investigation teams.

Facts and Figures

  • Starting salary:

    Salaries vary from force to force but just over £16,000 is the usual starting point. Officers in the British Transport Police start at £18,450.

  • Senior level salary:

    An average salary is £19,500 and a PCSO supervisor can earn £24,000.

  • Education:

    There is no formal educational requirement for this post, but each applicant has to pass written tests. For some forces, some GCSEs (A*-C) including maths and english are required. A qualification in public services may be useful.

  • Skills:

    You'll need to be confident, level-headed and have a mature attitude to help create safer communities. A PCSO should show experience and confidence in dealing with difficult people and complex situations, have the ability to communicate well and work as part of a team. Because of the long hours on foot patrol, PCSOs must be physically fit and have stamina.

  • Likely employer type:

    Local police forces.

  • Opportunities:

    Details of vacancies can be found on the Police: Could You website.

  • Number of professionals:

    There are around 13,500 PCSOs across the UK.

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