Why join us?
At Thames Valley Police, you’ll be part of a team that works every day to protect and support our communities. You’ll be valued, trained, and encouraged to reach your full potential and you’ll be doing work that genuinely matters.
Make a real difference in your community
If you’re looking for a role with purpose, variety, and the chance to help people every day, becoming a Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) could be the perfect next step. This is a role where you’ll build trust, support vulnerable people, and help keep neighbourhoods safe all while earning a salary and completing a Level 4 Diploma in Community Policing Practice.
PCSOs are the visible, approachable face of local policing. You’ll be out in the community, solving problems, building relationships, and helping people feel safe and supported.
What you’ll be doing
As a PCSO, you will:
- Provide a visible presence in local neighbourhoods
- Build strong relationships with residents, businesses, and partners
- Support vulnerable people and respond to community concerns
- Help prevent crime and antisocial behaviour
- Work closely with police officers and partner agencies
- Use your communication skills to defuse situations and offer reassurance
This is a role for someone who is confident, calm under pressure, and committed to helping others.
What you’ll gain
- A permanent role with a clear career pathway
- A Level 4 Diploma in Community Policing Practice
- Ten weeks of structured classroom training
- Ten weeks of on‑the‑job tutoring
- Ongoing learning and development throughout your first year
- The chance to make a meaningful impact every day
Entry requirements
To apply, you must:
- Be a British, EC/EEA or Commonwealth citizen, with settled status or indefinite leave to remain.
- Have had a minimum three years’ residency in the UK.
- Be 17 or older at application (you must be 18 on appointment); there’s no upper age limit.
- Hold GCSE English (9–4 / A*–C) or equivalent (If you don’t yet have the required English qualification, you must obtain one through a college or training provider before applying).
- If you are under 19 and do not hold GCSE Maths (9-4 / A-C) or equivalent, Thames Valley Police will support you to achieve a Level 2 Functional Skills Maths qualification once employed. Applicants aged 19 or over are not required to hold a Maths qualification.
- Be in good physical and mental health and able to pass the job‑related fitness test.
- BMI readings will be taken as part of your overall health assessment.
- Hold a full manual or automatic UK driving licence or be close to passing within 3 to 6 months (you cannot join an intake until you have passed).
Vetting
All roles require police vetting in line with the National Vetting Code of Practice. Residency requirements help ensure fair and consistent checks. Applications outside standard criteria may be considered with supporting evidence. Are reviewed on a case by case basis
Training and start dates
- Ten weeks at our Forces Training Centre in Sulhamstead (designed to give you a solid understanding in the essentials of a PCSO's role and powers).
- Ten weeks of local area tutoring
- One year of combined on‑ and off‑the‑job learning to complete your diploma
Successful applicants will join our recruitment pool for planned intakes during 2026/27, depending on location preferences and vacancies.
Benefits
As part of Thames Valley Police, you’ll receive:
- 24 days annual leave (pro-rata for part time) + plus Bank Holidays
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- Flexible working options
- Lifestyle discounts and Blue Light benefits
- Access to wellbeing services, staff networks, and support programmes
- Career development opportunities across the organisation
Every day as a PCSO brings new challenges, opportunities, and the chance to positively impact the lives of people in your community. If you're looking for a career where your actions matter and your contribution is valued, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply today and start your journey with Thames Valley Police.
How to apply
Please submit your application and read the attached guidance documents before applying.
For queries, contact: RecruitmentPCSO@thamesvalley.police.uk (quote reference 15376).
Closing date: Sunday 27 September 2026
