Police Community Support Officer

Description:

British Transport Police (BTP) is actively recruiting Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) across multiple locations to play a vital role in community engagement and safety across the UK’s railway network. This is a frontline, full-time position requiring visibility, community interaction, and rapid response to a range of non-emergency situations in the railway environment.

PCSOs are not just community officers; they are the eyes and ears of safety across stations and railway lines. Their duties help deter crime, protect the public, support victims, and build strong relationships with passengers and staff, making this a role filled with purpose, variety, and public service.

Key Responsibilities:

• Carry out high-visibility patrols at railway stations, platforms, and surrounding areas

• Support crime prevention efforts and provide reassurance to the traveling public

• Assist with the investigation of minor crimes, gather intelligence, and help identify offenders

• Handle anti-social behavior and address public concerns proactively

• Support sworn police officers during operations and emergency situations

• Build relationships with passengers, railway staff, and local communities

• Enforce BTP by-laws and issue fixed penalty notices when necessary

• Operate in shift-based patterns, including evenings, weekends, and bank holidays

Essential Qualities & Requirements:

• Strong resilience and ability to remain calm under pressure

• Excellent customer service and communication skills

• Passion for community engagement and public service

• Must be flexible with shift work and physically fit for patrolling duties

• PCSO roles in Wales (e.g., Bangor, Pontypridd): Welsh language skills are desirable but not mandatory

Eligibility Criteria:

You are not eligible to apply if:

• You failed the PCSO application with BTP in the past 6 months

• You failed BTP vetting checks within the last 12 months

• You have any unspent criminal convictions or received a custodial sentence

• You were previously dismissed from another police force

• You have unmanaged debt, a bankruptcy, or unsuitable tattoos (especially on the face or neck)

• You do not have the right to live and work in the UK

Benefits:

• Base Salary: £27,338.69

• Shift Allowance: Up to 20% (typically starts at 15% after 8 weeks of training)

• Holidays: 28 days annually, rising to 30 days with service

• Travel benefits on certain networks

• Access to internal development and promotion pathways (e.g., progression to full Police Officer)

• Pension Scheme: Defined Contribution via Royal London, with employer contributions and flexible employee rates from 4.4% to 12%

Learning and Progression:

You will undergo 8 weeks of initial training, including legal knowledge, customer handling, first aid, conflict management, and patrol procedures. Ongoing career development and promotion opportunities are available for successful candidates who wish to become Police Officers or specialize further within BTP.