PCSO recruitment process

Stage 1 - Application

Applications are only available when we are recruiting for PCSOs.

Before you apply, check that recruitment is open and that you are eligible to apply.

Your application will go through a formal papersift process. This includes the marking of competency based answers.

You should provide evidence on how your experience, skills and qualities meet the criteria as detailed in the Person Specification.

Stage 2 - Interview

If you are successful at the application stage, we will invite you to an interview. 

The interview will focus on your skills, experience and qualities and your understanding of the role.

You should carry out research on Lincolnshire Police and policing issues in the county. You should show why you have applied to become a PCSO and why you wish to serve with us.

Stage 3 - Medical

We will ask you to complete a medical history questionnaire and attend a medical appointment. This is with our force physician in Lincoln. It will include a medical examination, eyesight and hearing test.

Although there is no fitness test, we will assess that you are medically capable of performing the role. This includes being able to undertake Personal Safety Training.

You must have a reasonable height/weight ratio. Our Force Physician will assess this by calculating your body mass index.

If your BMI is more than 30% you will not be passed as fit to undertake the role of PCSO. We will take any muscle mass into account.

Stage 4 - Pre-employment checks

We will conduct comprehensive vetting checks and request references.

Vetting

We will conduct police checks on you, your immediate family and any adult living at the same address as you. We will also request National Security Vetting and carry out financial checks.

DNA and fingerprints (biometric vetting)

We will take samples of your DNA and fingerprints and check against outstanding crimes. We do this after we make a provisional offer, but before a final offer to appoint.

References

We will request references from your listed referees. We will not take a reference from your current employer at this stage, unless you specify that they can be.

When all the necessary checks are complete, we will write to you to confirm your acceptance.

Your application is held until we have confirmation of a start date. Your appointment is subject to your continued suitability.  

More information

Contact the Resource and Succession Planning Team:

Lincolnshire Police Headquarters
PO Box 999
Lincoln
LN5 7PH
Tel: 01522 558235
Email: [email protected]