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Abstract

The origins of intelligence-led and community policing intertwine somewhat. They herald back to the historical roots of preventative policing, where it was recognised that being reactive is not a solution to many problems (Skogan, 2008; Tilley, 2011). In that sense, the National Intelligence Model (NIM), Neighbourhood Policing (NHP) and the Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) role were introduced in the UK around similar times. They had different (and sometimes contradictory) objectives, but similar proactive intentions. All three emphasise a need for good quality community intelligence, with PCSOs being well placed as a conduit and mediator (Cooper et al., 2006; Cosgrove & Ramshaw, 2015; Foster & Jones, 2010; Merritt, 2010). Although intelligence gathering should be near the top of a PCSO’s priorities, seemingly little has been written about how the role is utilised to achieve this, and how effective it really is. This dissertation has looked to investigate just that issue.
A literature review outlined the origins of intelligence-led policing (ILP) and the NIM, highlighting that they are still sometimes more rhetorical than practical but can help to direct NHP activity. Further research indicated that community intelligence itself is often not valued by frontline officers and can conflict with perceived “higher level” matters. Nevertheless, it was highlighted that the unique nature of the PCSO role should be used to build trust in communities (particularly those that are harder-to-reach), eliciting a wider variety of intelligence gathering opportunities.
Semi-structured interviews were conducted with twelve PCSOs from two local policing areas in Thames Valley Police. The results indicated that PCSOs recognised their role as being conducive with intelligence gathering. They had a good understanding of intelligence and were confident in collecting and sharing it, but had little knowledge of wider intelligence processes. They were however keen to be more involved but often felt they were not properly integrated, lacking motivation to achieve best utilisation and efficacy.
The study concluded that more needs to be done to incentivise PCSOs to gather quality intelligence through effective engagement, as opposed to focusing on quantity. Most importantly, better relationships with local intelligence units are suggested along with an emphasis on developing an intelligence gathering mindset during and post initial training.

Course: Crime and Criminology - BSc (Hons) - C2113P

Date Deposited: 2021-11-05

URI/permalink: https://library.port.ac.uk/dissert/dis13723.html