Metropolitan Police Careers

Who we're looking for

While PCSO training will equip you with certain tools you need to carry out your role, there are a number of basic qualities and eligibility criteria that you need to bring with you. You will need to demonstrate these when you apply.

Age

The minimum age of recruitment for PCSOs is 18 and the maximum is 62 1/2. The contractual retirement age for all police staff is 65.

Nationality

You can be of any nationality to apply, provided you have permanent right to remain without restriction in the UK if you are from a non-EEA country.

Residency

Whilst the Home Office makes no mention of a residency requirement, it should be noted that ACPO have issued guidelines in respect of residency. These guidelines clearly state that for a force vetting, a candidate should have been resident in the United Kingdom for the THREE YEARS prior to submitting an application.

If a candidate has not resided in the United Kingdom for the three years prior to submitting an application, the application cannot be accepted.

Competencies

You should possess the following skills and qualities:

• Ability to use your own initiative and work as part of a team
• Ability to focus on the needs of London's communities
• Ability to speak clearly and concisely, remaining approachable and positive in difficult situations
• Consideration and respect for diversity - the opinions, circumstances and feelings of others

Qualifications

There are no formal educational requirements to become a PCSO. However, you will need to have a reasonable standard of English. Transport PCSOs need a full driving licence.

Character

PCSO is a position of responsibility and trust, for law-abiding people with proven character and integrity. As such, if you have previously been convicted of a criminal offence your suitability will be subject to careful consideration.

Health & fitness

You must be in a position to cope with the physical and mental demands of being a PCSO and carry out your duties effectively. Certain medical conditions may prevent this. To find out more, please use the answering your questions link or contact our medical team on 020 8358 0460.

Special requirements

Depending on the particular PCSO role you are interested in, you may be subject to a number of additional special requirements, such as having a valid driving licence.

Requirements of Role

When you start your employment, you will be required to have your photograph taken for local publication in line with our aim to give the community confidence in the police. This will appear on our Safer Neighbourhood website and other advertising material.