Leicestershire PCSOs lead campaign for long service medals

Two Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) are leading a national campaign for long service medals to be awarded to them – similar to the recognition already given to police officers.

PCSOs Peter Smith and Jo Burton have worked tirelessly, launching a public campaign to build support for the long service medals.

The two met with the Chief Constable Rob Nixon and the Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews to talk about gaining force support for their campaign and getting other forces on board.

The role of PCSO was introduced in 2002 under the Police Reform Act with the aim of connecting communities with their local force.

PCSOs are involved in tackling antisocial behaviour, hate crime, building intelligence and promoting community cohesion. They also take part in school and educational visits.

PCSO Smith, who has been in the role for the past 21 years, said: “Some officers receive a service medal after they have been in the role for 20 years and I feel PCSOs should receive the same recognition.

“I’m proud to work for Leicestershire Police and think that my colleagues working for other forces should be recognised for helping to make a difference. I’m grateful that the Chief Constable and PCC have given their support to what PCSO Burton and I are hoping to achieve.”

Mr Nixon said: “Peter and Jo have shown tremendous initiative by launching a public campaign to build support for this important recognition. I’ve been impressed by their passion and the pride they take in being part of our force and serving the community. I’m delighted to say both the PCC and I are fully supportive of it.

“Their work underscores the vital role that PCSOs and other staff play in the success of our force, providing a cornerstone of support and service that deserves formal acknowledgement.”

Mr Matthews added: “Our PCSOs are the backbone of neighbourhood policing across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland and are greatly valued by the public.

“It makes perfect sense to me that an award is launched in honour of this fortitude and devotion, as already exists for police officers who serve for 20 years. Our PCSOs need to know they are a truly valued member of the policing family and deserve praise and recognition for making a difference to our communities.”

Mr Nixon added: “Modern policing requires a balanced mix of staff, all of whom make an invaluable contribution to the running of the force. Often the focus is on police officers, and of course they do a unique and very challenging role, but they do so alongside very skilled and experienced staff who also play a critical role in frontline delivery.

“This can range from specialist support investigators, forensic experts, compassionate call takers through to analysts, and of course, PCSO’s and many more. We are proud that we operate as one team so, whilst I am hugely supportive of the campaign commenced by Peter and Jo, I am also actively seeking to ensure all staff are recognised within the construct of a modern police team.

You can sign the petition by visiting https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/701023