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PCSO Paige Gamblin

12/07/2024

I was preparing for my A Levels, not sure about next steps or where I wanted to go with my career. I didn’t want to go to university or have a 9 to 5 desk job, that just wasn’t me.

I definitely wanted to help people and be community-based but I didn’t know quite what I was looking for. So I went along to a careers fair and everything fell into place when I got talking to a police constable on the BTP stand and I realised joining as a PCSO was the perfect fit.

I registered my details through the BTP recruitment app and I got regular updates about the application process. I was offered the job on my 18th birthday in May, and I received my A Level results in August during my training.

Now I’m based at Paddington station in London and I love my job. I’m part of a great team, we all have different strengths and work together to provide a safe and reliable railway for all.

The training was excellent, and I’ve learned so much since being out on patrol, dealing with people and advising passengers about staying safe on the railway. We play a vital role in supporting victims of violence and crime and getting them the help they need.

In one incident, I spent a long time with a victim of domestic violence, gaining her trust and telling her about the support that’s available; we’ve had updates since and it’s good to know she and her child are now protected. This is why I joined BTP. It’s rewarding to use my skills in a positive way, connecting with people so they feel they can put their trust in you.

As PCSOs, we’re out there every day policing the railway and making sure people are safe. It’s a brilliant job'.

Interested in seeing if the role of a PCSO could be for you?

Click here to find out more about becoming a PCSO. 

Category: PCSO