Welsh forces to recruit an additional 100 PCSOs

The Welsh Government has announced extra funding to recruit 100 Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) in a bid to cut crime and create stronger, safer communities.

The move brings the total number of PCSO across the four Welsh forces to 600.

First Minister Mark Drakeford said: “PCSOs have provided a vital link between neighbourhoods and police services and are recognised for their willingness to become part of their communities.

“They have played a critical role in responding to the pandemic and I want to pay tribute to their unwavering commitment. The PCSOs have continued to step up, providing support and developing innovative ways to keep their communities safe.”

Minister for Social Justice Jane Hutt said: “Communities right across Wales have appreciated the vitally important difference that PCSOs make to their neighbourhoods. It’s clear to see that they’ve fast become part of their communities and have ensured that when there is a problem, individuals know their local PCSOs have their best interests at heart.

South Wales police and crime commissioner Alun Michael said: “PCSOs strive to make our communities safer and stronger by the part the play and their visible presence helps to inspire confidence. That is why I am absolutely delighted that Welsh Government ministers have moved so quickly to implement their manifesto commitment to 100 additional PCSOs across Wales, in addition to the 500 they already fund.

“Their financial commitment enables the four Welsh forces to press ahead with the additional recruitment and to restore and enhance this important frontline resource in each of our communities at the same time as tackling the competing demands of tackling violent crime, drugs-related exploitation, domestic violence and abuse and internet-enabled crime.

“Just as in Wales we worked together to combat Covid-19 we will now work together to protect vulnerable people from the threats and harm that are faced by every community.”

Plaid Cymru said the move was a “step in the right direction” but called for greater policing powers for Wales to boost police recruitment.

Peredur Owen Griffiths, Plaid Cymru’s spokesperson for communities, said: “Police should be visible, accountable and accessible, and the funding of additional PCSOs is a step in the right direction, however, Welsh Government must also outline how they will ensure these new PCSOs are better integrated into our communities.”

“It’s essential that steps are taken to increase cooperation between the police and the public, reduce fear and ensure that officers are on hand to provide assistance and services to the public across both urban and rural settings.”

“But why stop at 100 new officers? If policing was fully devolved to Wales, there would be far more opportunity to improve the lives of people in Wales by being able to introduce radical reforms in the fields.”

“Devolving justice and policing to Wales would see us receiving an additional £25 million to spend on policing and justice – the equivalent of 900 extra police officers.”