MPs join UNISON in celebrating 20 years of the PCSO

UNISON yesterday launched its celebration marking the 20th anniversary of the creation of the police community support officer (PCSO), with a major event in Parliament. Senior Labour politicians joined UNISON general secretary Christina McAnea and six PCSO members from England and Wales, to speak of the value and importance of the role and the urgent need for the UK government to finance new recruitment. Speaking to the PCSOs in the room, Ms McAnea said: “This is a success story. This is something that has worked. You’re not an add-on, you’re integral to the way that we police in this country.” And shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper told them: “The work you do every single day of the week is so incredibly important – keeping communities safe, building communities’ strength and resilience… We owe you so much.” The Police Reform Act introduced the role of PCSO on 24 July 2002. The Metropolitan Police in London created the first PCSOs the same year, with other forces quickly following. Rooted in local areas, PCSOs provide a highly visible police presence. They deter anti-social behaviour, provide reassurance, gather intelligence and work with businesses, schools and others to keep communities safe. PCSOs work in all forces in England and Wales, but not for Police Scotland or the Police Service of Northern Ireland. Unlike police officers, PCSOs can join a trade union – and nearly 70% of them are UNISON members.                         ...
Source: UNISON Health care news - Category: UK Health Authors: Tags: Article News police and justice Source Type: news