Staffordshire PCSOs balloted on strike action
One hundred and sixty police community support officers (PCSOs) in Staffordshire are being balloted for strike action over imposed changes to their conditions that could pose a risk to public safety.
The dispute centres on proposals to change their working patterns, which include reduced evening and weekend staffing, and the introduction of additional duties such as routine statement-taking.
The public service union, UNISON, says the plans risk reducing the visibility of PCSOs at key times, particularly evenings and weekends, undermining the core principle of neighbourhood policing and jeopardising public safety.
PCSOs are the face of the police within local communities, providing a visible uniformed presence critical to tackling anti-social behaviour, preventing crime and building public confidence, adds the union.
The strike ballot will continue until 15 May.
UNISON West Midlands regional organiser Ashley Morley said: “These proposals go beyond changes to working patterns. They undermine the very foundation of neighbourhood policing. PCSOs are the frontline staff that keep communities feeling safe. Reducing that visibility at crucial times could compromise public safety and public confidence.
“This plan threatens PCSOs’ pay and conditions and are being pushed through with minimal consultation. The changes are so significant that dedicated PSCOs are now considering strikes. This marks an unprecedented step for support officers in the West Midland. Staffordshire Police must pause these ill-advised changes and begin talks to resolve the dispute.”