MAKE A DIFFERENCE – PCSO RECRUITMENT OPEN NOW

The recruitment window to become a PCSO in Cumbria is now open.

Cumbria Constabulary is looking to recruit its next cohort of Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) and are seeking people who like to engage with local communities and those who thrive on being at the heart of what matters.

PCSOs play a vital role in preventing crime and anti-social behaviour and their actions can contribute to stopping minor problems developing into something more serious. They are a visible presence in the community and therefore being able to communicate effectively and calmly in difficult situations and to offer comfort, support and reassurance is vital to the role.

PCSO Amy Lambert joined the force in 2017 and works in Carlisle. She said: “Being able to help is what inspires me within the role.
“My role requires me to be out talking to people, providing a visible presence and reassurance to communities.

PCSOs make a significant contribution towards keeping people safe and preventing crime and anti-social behaviour. It is a rewarding role, particularly when you make a noticeable difference to the quality of life for people or help them get the support they require.”

PCSOs don’t have the power to arrest but they are a crucial part of our force. As well as providing a reassuring presence out on the beat, duties can include important tasks such as preventing speeding outside schools, to reducing anti-social behaviour and assisting officers at crime scenes, therefore they carry a great deal of responsibility. They also play a critical role in engaging with the public.

PCSO Lambert said: “Speaking with young people is an important part of our role and we regularly visit schools and youth clubs across Cumbria. Engaging positively with people at a young age can have a significant impact on ensuring they contribute towards a positive society.

“In every interaction we have an opportunity to make a difference. I would encourage anyone who relishes a challenge, enjoys working with and supporting people to consider joining us.”

Superintendent Matt Pearman said: “The work of PCSOs is key to our wider policing mission of keeping people safe and supporting our communities. PCSOs work at the heart of what matters to residents, local businesses and visitors to our county. They are also at the forefront of how we engage with people and provide visibility within communities.

“In recent years, we have increased our local policing capability to effectively tackle issues our communities care about. We have built on our strong working relationships with partner agencies, we have introduced dedicated community beat officers and we have officers and PCSOs working from bases located in rural communities.

“This new cohort will complement the ongoing work of local policing teams and make a positive difference to people across the county.”

Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Peter McCall, said: “PCSOs provide a vital role in Cumbria Constabulary.

“They get to know their communities very well and become a trusted person to contact for locals.

“I’ve met with various PCSOs in my time as PCC and it’s clear that their dedication to their role makes a difference in their communities.

“I would encourage anyone with an interest in making their county safer to apply – it’s a highly rewarding role.”

To find out more about what a role as a PCSO entails or to begin your application, please visit the careers section of our website – http://www.cumbria.police.uk/…/police-community…/pcsos.

Recruitment for PCSOs is open until Sunday 27th March and successful candidates would start late summer / early autumn 2022.