Staffordshire PCSOs vote for strike action over shift changes

Police community support officers in Staffordshire have voted in favour of strike action in a dispute over changes to their shifts.

Unison said its ballot of 160 PCSOs in Staffordshire resulted in “overwhelming” support for industrial action, which could include walkouts.

Staffordshire Police has introduced new shift patterns for PCSOs, with the latest shifts now ending at 9pm rather than 10pm. The changes, which came into effect this week, will also see PCSOs trained to take statements.

The force says the new shift patterns will mean more PCSOs are on duty during the busiest periods. Unison says the changes will compromise public safety and reduce PCSO visibility at key times.

The union has also previously said some PCSOs could lose up to 14 per cent of their pay as a result of the changes.

A Unison spokesperson said

“Staffordshire Police Unison members working as PCSOs have delivered an overwhelming ballot result in favour of industrial action.

“The strength of feeling shown through both the turnout and the level of support, for both full strike action and action short of strike action, sends a very clear message to the employer that members are united and determined to defend their role in delivering neighbourhood policing and fair treatment at work.

“Our members do not want to take industrial action but neither are they prepared to accept the proposed changes to their terms and conditions of employment. We are incredibly proud of our members for standing together and making their voices heard.”

Unison said it would continue to support PCSOs while seeking “meaningful engagement” with Staffordshire Police to resolve the dispute.

A spokesperson for Staffordshire Police said

“We are, of course, disappointed that this is the outcome, but we acknowledge PCSOs’ right to opt for industrial action and will work with them and Unison throughout this process.

“For many, this is an emotionally charged situation, so we would ask that people refrain from commentary and speculation during this process.”

The changes to PCSO shift patterns are expected to save Staffordshire Police £700,000 a year. The force has previously said the proposals were “data driven” and would result in a better service for the public.