Staffordshire PCSOs vote for strike action
Staffordshire PCSOs have voted in favour of industrial action in dispute over shift changes
Police community support officers have voted in favour of strike action in a row over shift changes. 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 which will see fewer on patrol during the evening, with the latest shifts ending at 9pm, rather than 10pm. The changes to the operating model, which came into effect this week, will also see PCSOs being trained to take statements.
Staffordshire Police say the new shift patterns will mean more PCSOs will be on duty during the busiest periods. But Unison claims they will compromise public safety and reduce PCSOs’ visibility at key times.
The union has also previously said that the changes will result in some PCSOs losing up to 14 per cent of their pay.
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 says it will continue to support PCSOs while it seeks ‘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 pattern are expected to save Staffordshire Police £700,000 a year, but the force has always insisted the proposals were ‘data driven’ and will result in a better service for the public.