Evaluating the skills and contributions of Police Community Support Officers

This research aims to inform decisions by Police and Crime Commissioners on the future of PCSOs, including what (if anything) they offer that is different to Police Officers and what different roles they could most usefully perform for forces. Policy and practice questions being asked by Dr Megan O’Neill, include:

• Should the role of PCSO become a formal part of the rank structure, so that they can be promoted to police constables?
• What are the implications for Neighbourhood Policing if PCSOs are removed?
• How can PCSOs be most effectively and efficiently utilised in police forces.