Commissioner backs recruitment drive to boost PCSO numbers in Devon and Cornwall

Devon and Cornwall’s Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez has urged people to consider a career in neighbourhood policing, as the force launches a major recruitment campaign for Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs).

The drive aims to recruit 49 new PCSOs across the region, bringing the total to nearly 200 officers working in local communities. While PCSOs do not have powers of arrest, they provide a highly visible presence on the streets, tackling anti-social behaviour and helping prevent crime.

Applications for the current intake close on Sunday, September 21st at 11.55pm, with training beginning in January 2026. A second training course will follow in March.

In total, 34 of the new recruits will be posted in Devon and 15 in Cornwall. The roles are being funded by the Government’s Neighbourhood Policing Grant, which is also supporting the recruitment of up to 73 PCSOs overall, including replacements for those who have left.

Commissioner Hernandez said:
“PCSOs are an invaluable asset to policing. They provide the public with a reassuring visible presence on the streets in our communities and play a vital and varied role in reducing crime and antisocial behaviour.

“It is reassuring to know the number of PCSOs is increasing alongside police officer numbers being at a record level of 3,610.

“At a meeting of the Police and Crime Panel this Friday, September 12th, I will be asking members for their help in encouraging people in their communities to consider applying. This plea is being extended to not just to all other councillors across Devon and Cornwall but directly to anyone who has ever considered a career in policing or knows of someone who would be ideally suited to the role.

“I would encourage all our community leaders to make people aware of these vacancies.”

A spokesperson for Devon & Cornwall Police added:
“Our PCSOs play a vital role in our communities and will be involved in many aspects of operational policing working with officers and staff across the organisation.

“They also work with partners to identify local policing and community priorities throughout Devon and Cornwall helping to reduce crime, support vulnerable people and keep our communities safe. No two days are the same and I would encourage anyone who wants an interesting and varied career to consider applying to be a PCSO.”

No formal qualifications are required for the role, and training is fully funded by the force. PCSOs typically patrol on foot or bicycle, so a driving licence is not needed. Successful candidates will be posted within 30 miles of their home address.

For more details on becoming a PCSO, visit https://recruitment.devon-cornwall.police.uk/devon-cornwall-police-careers/dc-police-staff/dc-pcso/