A CAMPAIGN recognising Police Community Support Officers and the value they add to policing in Wales is being celebrated for its second year next week (Dec 10-14).

Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) work on the front line providing a visible and reassuring presence on streets throughout the country.

The campaign, called #ThoseInBlue, is being supported by Dyfed-Powys Police, South Wales Police, Gwent Police, North Wales Police and British Transport Police. All week they will be showcasing the work of their PCSOs and recognising the vital role they play.

PCSOs are the eyes and ears of police in communities – building trust and gathering information that is crucial to tackling crime and antisocial behaviour.

Dyfed-Powys Police’s Temporary Deputy Chief Constable, Richard Lewis, leads the portfolio for PCSOs in Wales.  He said: “PCSOs are an integral part of the police family. It is different to being a warranted Police Officer, and is a job in its own right.

“PCSOs are not only the eyes and ears in our communities, but also help tackle problems which cause the most concern for people living in Wales.

“PCSOs bring a wide range of skills and experience to the role and in the Dyfed-Powys area we have specialist PCSOs tackling rural crime, cyber crime and antisocial behaviour, and crime reduction experts.

“This Christmas, PCSOs will be a reassuring presence for some of the most vulnerable people living in towns, cities and villages across Wales.”

As part of the campaign, Dyfed-Powys Police Chief Officers will be heading ‘back to the floor’ – going on patrol with PCSOs working across Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire and Powys.

All week PCSOs across Wales will be using #TweetMyWeek on Twitter to showcase the work they do every day that helps keep people safe. Follow the hashtag or keep up with the campaign on Dyfed-Powys Police’s Facebook and Twitter pages.

If you have concerns about crime or antisocial behaviour in your community speak to a PCSO or call 101.

MEET A PEMBROKESHIRE PCSO

Name: PCSO Daria Osmolak

Where you’re stationed: Milford Haven

Length of service: Less than one year.

Why did you join: I have always wanted to join the police – it has been my dream since I was a little girl. I want to make a difference, play a part in the community, support the public in difficult times. I want to make them feel safe and protected.  I would like to think that I am approachable and committed to helping all members of the community.

Best moment: Using my translation skills to help negotiate with a Polish man who was in distress.  As challenging as it was at that moment in time, I felt relieved that our efforts helped to keep the male safe and it was the best feeling ever knowing that he was going to be ok.

Interests outside of work: I enjoy restoring old furniture and finding new ways to use old things, giving a new look and purpose to items most people would put in the bin. I also love travelling and learning about new cultures and as I am a big foodie I love discovering new cuisines.

Aspirations:  My aim is to be a Detective Constable in the future, as I am keen to gather information, solve crimes and protect my communities. For the time being I thoroughly enjoy my current role and I will put every effort into this position and will strive to be the best PCSO I can be.

Speciality: Being able to communicate in two languages – Polish and English.

Previous experience: I worked in food retail for 11 years carrying out different roles. I started as a shop assistant working 14 hours a week and within 6 years I worked my way up to a full time Duty Manager. I was responsible for the safety of workers and all customers as well as monitoring and managing the day to day running of the shop.