PCSOs building bridges in Shoreham and Durrington

BRIDGING the gap and breaking down barriers between young people and the police is the aim behind introducing a police presence in schools.

The Shoreham Academy and Durrington High School have police community support officers (PCSOs), known as a safer schools officers, funded jointly by the school and Sussex Police.

Their job includes deterring crime, acting as a liaison between the school and police, and being there for students to come and talk to them about any problems ranging from bullying to family issues.

Reporter Alex Jenkins spoke to PCSOs Kevin Brown and Karen Shaw to find out more about their role and why they find it so fulfilling.

‘A massive benefit’

PCSO Kevin Brown started his role at Shoreham Academy, in Kingston Lane, last summer after his daughter became ill and he needed to work locally.

Previously, he worked as a Worthing town centre PCSO.

Originally, his role at the academy was going to be just for the summer term before he started a job with the British Transport Police (BTP).

However, due to a recruitment freeze his move to BTP did not happen – something PCSO Brown has said turned out to be a blessing.