Wiltshire Police launches recruitment drive for community support officers

PCSOs play a pivotal role in keeping our communities safe, listening to local concerns and finding solutions for those who live and work in the area.

Community support officers are an important element of front-line policing - being called upon to deal with minor offences, tackle anti-social behaviour and provide crime prevention advice and education. Their duties also include conducting high visibility patrols for public reassurance.

They also work closely with local communities to foster strong relationships, engaging with schools, businesses, and community groups.  

An operational role, PCSOs are part of local policing teams and work closely with police officers to support frontline operations, tackle crime and safeguard our communities.  

PCSOs also attend warrants and carry out house-to-house investigations, as well as supporting at incidents such as road traffic collisions.

Assistant Chief Constable David Minty said: “Police Community Support Officers harness our presence in local communities and are the everyday face of the force. Most people meet police officers in emergency situations, but PCSOs are embedded in finding solutions to problems and local issues on a day-to-day basis. Attending events, schools and businesses they are often the community’s link into Wiltshire Police.

“The roles are vitally important and help support operational policing and Community Policing Teams by providing a visible presence, building links with local communities and supporting front line policing.

“PCSOs offer local knowledge and guidance to officers and investigating staff. They are the heartbeat of our communities.”

Successful candidates must be at least 18 years old at the time of application and need Level 2 qualifications in Maths and English and a Level 3 qualification. Confidence, good communication skills, decision-making, and problem-solving skills are all important.

PCSOs work a 37-hour week over a ten-week shift pattern. Shift patterns consist of day and evening shifts with some weekend working and rest days.

The salary starts at £23,694 per annum, rising to £24,807 in two annual increments, plus further payments for working unsocial or irregular hours.

Benefits include a pension scheme, 25 days annual leave and access to gym facilities and wellbeing services. Career progression opportunities are good, learning transferable skills for roles such as Police Constable, Local Crime Investigator, or Contact Centre Operator.

Wiltshire Police are accepting applications until 11.55pm on Tuesday 16 May, with successful applicants joining us for training in October 2023.