A RECRUITMENT campaign has been launched for police community support officers (PCSOs).

West Yorkshire Police say the force has employed PCSOs since 2003 and they have proved to be “a valuable asset”.

Duties can include detaining suspected offenders until a police officer arrives, dealing with anti-social behaviour, issuing fixed penalty notices, guarding crime scenes, offering crime-prevention advice, providing support at large public events and gathering intelligence from the community.

Anyone aged 18 or over can apply and no professional qualifications are required.

The annual salary ranges from £20,619 to £22,833 – plus a shift allowance.

Applicants who pass an initial assessment will undergo written tests, attend an interview and take part in interactive exercises.

Those who are successful will then be required to undergo a medical and vetting checks.

A spokesman said: “The role of PCSO is exciting, intense and varied. It’s not just about walking around on patrol – you get hands-on experience of frontline policing and helping the community. The majority of the time you will be the first contact people have with the police.”

The application period closes on December 23. Visit westyorkshire.police.uk/jobs-volunteer for more details and to apply.