Liberal Democrats call for PCSO clarity

Liberal Democrats are calling for clarity from Mayor David Skaith on the future of PCSOs in York following worrying reports that Essex are eliminating PCSOs completely.

Liberal Democrat Councillors are already concerned with the diminishing PCSO numbers and the impact that is having on community policing for residents in York.

Councillor Emilie Knight said:

“I am deeply concerned about the reports coming out of Essex police. They are making all 99 of their PCSOs redundant to help balance their books.

“We are seeing similar tactics used in York. There are currently only 29 active PCSOs for the entire city and this is starting to negatively impact on communities across York. There aren’t the officers to respond to all complaints of anti-social behaviour.

“Governments have added more and more responsibilities on Police Forces without the funding to match this and we recognise the additional work responding to serious and organised crime, and safeguarding but fair funding should have covered these costs.”

Councillor Andrew Waller added:

“Neighbourhood policing needs to be at full strength. Gaps mean that the remaining dedicated officers are stretched ever more to deliver the service. I have recently had a number of venues and residents come to me concerned that their calls for help with tackling anti-social behaviour could only be responded to the next day, or longer.

“PCSOs in conjunction with PCs have provided a strong connection with local residents and businesses, to know an area, and to help gather information to keep areas safe, and to ‘nip in the bud’ situations that could develop into bigger hotspots.”