Brentwood's community support officers face potential redundancy due to Essex Police's significant budget gap. Following outrage from unions and community members, an increase in the neighbourhood policing grant from the government may provide necessary funding. The grant is contingent upon relocating 74 officers into community roles, with final confirmation pending from the Home Office. Additionally, despite the potential saving of PCSOs, around 65 backroom staff still face job cuts, and the police precept will see an increase for local residents.
The potential U-turn to save Brentwood's PCSOs comes after the government agreed to increase neighbourhood policing funding, with Essex’s grant rising significantly.
Union Unison argued that cutting PCSOs would contradict government promises on returning to neighbourhood policing, especially after the Prime Minister’s pledge to increase community officers.
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