Reduction in PCSO numbers in Cheshire - update

Dear Resident

Apologies in advance for a long message, but this message is an update to my reach out to all Neighbourhood Watch Coordinators (NWCs) in Cheshire in December for feedback regarding the proposal by the Chief Constable to reduce PCSO numbers. Here's what's happened since.

In summary, efforts behind the scenes to save PCSO roles are being made, and a public consultation is now open until 23rd January in regard to public appetite for increasing the police element of council tax to provide funding.     

Please see the link to the survey below and share as widely as possible. 

BELOW - MESSAGE FROM PCC's OFFICE:

Dear Heather

Many thanks for your recent correspondence regarding the PCSOs.

The Commissioner has received significant feedback on this matter and has worked extensively behind the scenes to explore how these proposals could be reconsidered in light of public opposition. While the final decision rests with the Chief Constable as an operational matter, the Commissioner is determined to ensure that the voices of our communities are reflected in the process.

To provide context, in April 2025, the Commissioner announced an additional £3 million in government funding to strengthen neighbourhood policing. At that time, Cheshire had 251 dedicated neighbourhood policing staff, including Inspectors, Sergeants, Officers, and PCSOs. The current budget proposal, which included the Chief constable’s proposal to remove 60 PCSO posts, forecasts an increase to 326 personnel in these roles. While the exact number of PCSOs is still being finalised, you will no doubt be pleased to learn that the Commissioner has already secured 10 posts that were previously at risk of redundancy.

The Commissioner is now consulting on next year’s budget, including options for the police element of council tax. One option would mean a Band B household paying an extra £2.14 per month, which would guarantee the retention of all 87 PCSO posts. You can share your views and complete the survey online here:

Policing Precept : Policing precept 2026-27. (The survey closes 23.01.26 at noon).

Please share this link with your colleagues / contacts.

Whatever the final decision, the Commissioner’s promise remains firm - To provide a designated contact who will be a police officer or PCSO for an area. Neighbourhood policing is not being reduced – it is being strengthened. And the Commissioner will hold the Chief Constable to account to make sure this happens.

We believe safer communities start with listening and working together. Thank you for being part of that conversation and I would urge you to take part in the precept consultation to ensure your views are heard. If you have further questions or ideas, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Damon Taylor | Chief Executive | Office of the Police & Crime Commissioner