What we do

PCSOs find themselves tackling a wide range of community issues and often as the first uniformed presence at the scene. On a daily basis, the role of a PCSO may involve, high visibility foot patrols, resolving community problems by working with partner agencies and communities, gathering community intelligence, dealing with antisocial behaviour, preserving crime scenes and attending court as a witness.

What powers do PCSOs have?

PCSOs do not have the same powers as a police officer, yet they are a visible presence and an effective crime deterrent, especially with regard to anti-social behaviour.

As well as being able to issue fixed penalty tickets for minor anti-social behaviour, PCSOs can also demand the name and address of a person acting in an anti-social manner.

Other PCSO powers include being able to confiscate alcohol being consumed in a public place, confiscate tobacco from young people, conduct road checks on vehicles, remove abandoned vehicles and seize any vehicles that are being used to potentially harm other people.

What hours do they work?

PCSOs work shifts; they are mostly deployed between the hours of 8.00am and 10.00pm, depending on the area in which they work. During their duty they will normally be deployed on foot in allocated areas; they will not patrol in vehicles.

What uniform do they wear?

Our PCSO uniform consists of black wickie shirt, black protective vest, high visibility waterproof jacket, black trousers and black safety boots. Our PCSOs can be identified by the solid blue band on the uniform hats.