Cuts to PCSOs will undermine Community safety

Plans to cut funding for Police Community Support officers (PCSOs) in Leicestershire have been criticised by the Liberal Democrats on Leicestershire County Council.

The Council currently funds additional PCSOs in every borough and district across Leicestershire from a reduction in Council Tax discounts on second homes. The Conservative Administration is proposing to cut £500,000 made available to the Police to employ the PSCOs.

Simon Galton, Leader of the Lib Dem group said, "PCSOs have made a huge contribution to tackling crime and anti-social behaviour in Leicestershire. They have enabled the Police to provide a regular uniformed street presence in many local communities which is something the public say they want. I cannot understand why the Conservatives at County Hall are willing to put at risk what has been achieved through partnership working between the Police and the County and district councils.

PCSO's provide a vital link between all the agencies with responsibility for Community Safety. I am also surprised that the Tories are using the excuse of Police and Crime Commissioners to remove this funding as the change to a Commissioner will not increase the level of the funding available to the Police."

Simon added: "The £500,000 used to fund PCSOs can be found by reviewing Council priorities for example, the Council is proposing to spend over £2m next year on Communications and Public Relations which we believe would be better spent on protecting community policing."