Gloucestershire Constabulary is looking for volunteers passionate about their local community, who are willing to step up and help.

The force is recruiting for volunteer police community support officers from today (March 23).

The new position will see officers work alongside regular PCSOs and Neighbourhood Policing Teams, acting as a key liaison point at grass roots level between local communities and the police.

There are three intakes planned. The closing date for this first intake is Tuesday April 19.

VPCSOs, as they will be known, will have a very different role from other branches of the police family and will be:

• Responsible for older people (in their community) - updating them on relevant crimes like scams and being aware of vulnerable individuals in their patch

• In schools - delivering the Mini Police Programme to 8-11 year olds

• Neighbourhood Watch - linking-in with all NHW co-coordinators in their area and helping to develop new schemes

• Gathering intelligence - knowing their area and becoming a visible and reliable presence

Tracy Wren, from the Citizens in Policing Team, said: "We are looking for volunteers who want to make a difference and be part of the police family, working to reduce crime and build trust and confidence.

"This is an exciting opportunity for anyone who believes they can make a difference in supporting their local community. If you care about your neighbourhood and feel you want to make a difference, well now you can!"

The pledge to build up the constabulary was part of police and crime commissioner, Chris Nelson's, manifesto when he was elected to the position.

Among his ideas was the new role of volunteer police community support officers.

Mr Nelson said: "I am a great believer in the extra value volunteers add through the skills and experience they have from outside policing.

"VPCSOs will work alongside regular PCSOs and the neighbourhood policing teams. Providing an additional, visible, accessible and approachable uniformed presence will lead to stronger communities; enabling the police to gather necessary information and intelligence to tackle localised crime and anti-social behaviour.

"We know how much PCSOs are valued. This new role will be able to build on that and improve public confidence still further."

VPCSOs will not have designated legal powers of enforcement and will not be deployable. They will work flexible hours and operate in their own neighbourhood, with a view to building strong, trusting, working relationships within their own community.

There are 12 vacancies for the first intake.

You can find out more and how to apply here: https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/police-forces/gloucestershire-constabulary/areas/gloucestershire/ca/careers/vpcso/

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