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How do PCSOs fit into the police family

PCSOs perform one of the most demanding roles in the modern police force, inspiring confidence in our communities by

  • working as part of a neighbourhood policing team, supporting neighbourhood officers in solving local problems;
  • helping to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour;
  • dealing with minor offences; and
  • supporting front-line policing.

It is an essential role, which gives the police more time to support our communities.

PCSOs...

  • deal constantly with members of the public;
  • build links with employers, businesses and community leaders;
  • deal with nuisance offences such as street drinking or begging; and
  • be given some limited powers suited to their role.

PCSOs do not...

  • have powers of arrest;
  • be able to interview or deal with prisoners;
  • investigate serious crime; or
  • carry out the more complex and high-risk tasks that police officers perform.