Bex’s Story: ‘Why I’m proud to be a PCSO’ - celebrating the role of neighbourhood officers
For Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) Bex Steed, being a part of Devon & Cornwall Police is more than just a job, it’s a chance to make a lasting impact on people’s lives for the better.
As part of Neighbourhood Policing Week we’re highlighting the important role our neighbourhood police teams play in keeping people safe.
PCSOs are a vital link between the police and communities; they provide visibility on the streets, build strong relationships with local people and provide key advice to keep neighbourhoods safe.
Bex Steed has proudly been a PCSO for the past 19 years, working across neighbourhoods in Liskeard: “I became a PCSO because I care about people, I love being social and I wanted to be out in the community helping those in need.”
From tackling antisocial behaviour (ASB) to supporting vulnerable residents, PCSOs are a key within neighbourhood policing teams.
Bex added: “A huge part of what I do is about being visible, whether that’s by carrying out high-vis patrols, holding community events to listen to local concerns or visiting schools – all my work is key in providing a reassuring, friendly face across Liskeard, as well as a listening ear”.
From young people to adults, PCSOs aim to build trusting relationships with all age groups to educate them about crime, about how they can keep safe and encouraging them to make safe decisions.
Over nearly two decades of service, PCSO Bex has had a huge impact on Liskeard, helping resolve long-term crime impacting neighbourhoods, carrying out countless visits to schools and building trust in the police.
In May 2025, Bex was presented with a Chief Superintendent award after she was recognised for her work around educating young people about online safety and the dangers of sending inappropriate photos. Her work has helped keep hundreds of young people safe.
Commenting on the importance of her role, she added: “Seeing people - both youngsters and adults - who you’ve helped, whether that’s encouraging them to make safe decisions, protecting them from being a victim of crime, or just providing them with support when they’re in need, it’s such a worthwhile and important role.
“I absolutely love what I do and look forward to continue working across Liskeard.”
PCSOs are in neighbourhood police teams across Devon and Cornwall. They are embedded within communities, listening and acting on local concerns, solving long-term problems affecting communities and educating people about how to stay safe.
If you’re interested in finding out more about the role of a PCSO or would like to register your interest in becoming one, visit: DC PCSO - Dorset Police and Devon & Cornwall Police working in Partnership