Funding agreement secured to continue dedicated PCSO for Alresford
A new funding agreement has been approved to ensure a dedicated Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) continues to serve the community of Alresford in Essex. The agreement was reached between Alresford Parish Council, Essex Police and the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner (PFCC) for Essex.
Under the Special Police Services (SPS) agreement, Alresford Parish Council will fund a part-time PCSO (0.425 full-time equivalent – approximately 16 hours per week) from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027. The agreement, now approved by the PFCC for Essex, has a maximum annual cost of £31,000, representing the full economic cost of providing the role.
The arrangement continues the partnership which has helped maintain a visible policing presence in the local area, supporting community reassurance, tackling antisocial behaviour and addressing priorities identified by residents and the parish council.
While Alresford experiences relatively low levels of crime, the dedicated PCSO plays an important role in engagement, early intervention and problem solving, working closely with neighbourhood policing teams and local partners.
Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex, Roger Hirst, said: “Local policing is about more than responding to crime — it’s about visibility, reassurance and strong relationships with the community.
“This agreement ensures Alresford continues to benefit from a dedicated PCSO who understands the community and works closely with residents and the parish council to deal with local concerns. Having a dedicated PCSO in the parish is one proactive way to help improve trust in local policing.
“It’s also a positive example of partnership working that helps prevent problems before they escalate and supports safer communities.”
Cllr Frank Belgrove, Chairman of Alresford Parish Council, said: “We’re pleased funding for the PCSO has been agreed by all partners for another year and this project continues to build a safe and secure community in Alresford."