Recruitment open for PCSO posts

It marks the second time this year that the force has advertised for new PCSOs, with the last round of recruitment in January attracting over 1,000 applications for 80 posts.

The successful candidates from that round are due to begin training next month and will be patrolling the streets by October.

WMP spokesperson Lara Horsley, said: "The new recruits will be based across the West Midlands and successful candidates will be at the heart of neighbourhood policing, becoming the friendly face of the force throughout the region.

"Applicants do not need specific formal qualifications to apply for the role, however anyone keen to consider a career as a PCSO should have a good standard of education and an ability to communicate effectively both in writing and verbally."

PCSOs are uniformed staff who support the work of police officers in the community. They are considered an integral part of local policing units and their work includes tackling anti-social behaviour.

Last year the regions police and crime commissioner David Jamieson announced that 150 new PCSOs would be taken on as part of recruitment drive to bolster force staff numbers by 1,150.

The figures include 800 new officers. The new recruits will replace staff who have retired or are due to leave the force over the next year.

As a result of budget cuts WMP has lost 2,000 officers in the last seven years.

WMP Chief Constable Dave Thompson said the force could lose up to 300 officers by 2021.

People aged 18 or over can apply for the PCSO positions. Applications close on August 25.

For more details visit: https://jobs.west-midlands.police.uk/