PCSO speaks about how his role makes Caernarfon a safer place to live, work and visit

PCSO Andrew Owen joined North Wales Police in 2022 to pursue his goal to make a positive contribution to his community.

The 32-year-old police staff member previously worked as for the National Exercise Referral Scheme supporting people back into exercise following surgery or those with health conditions.

He found his ability to help people so rewarding, he pursued it by joining the force.

Since becoming a PCSO, the soon-to-be dad-of-four prioritised building relationships with residents, local businesses and partner agencies which has helped him to tackle community issues.

Andrew, a fluent Welsh speaker from Caernarfon, said: “I’m a real people’s person so I knew that working within my own community would come naturally to me.

“I make an effort to be visible when I’m on shift to speak to anyone about concerns they have, or even just a chat about how police can support local initiatives, such as applying for PACT funding.”

Two years into the job, his contribution to policing through his proactive work in identifying and detaining wanted criminals in the Caernarfon and surrounding areas led to a force-recognition award for PCSO of the year.

 Andrew added: “People who persistently commit crimes have a detrimental impact on local communities. Being out on the streets every day, I can see how draining it is for shopkeepers and residents.

“Those I target are the ones who commit thefts, and people who are being recalled to prison.

 “I really feel this work not only contributes to making Caernarfon a safer and welcoming place for residents, but my own family too.

 “This in turn frees up my police constable colleagues to deal more with people who really need us.”

PCSOs work alongside police officers in responding to incidents that happen in their local areas and use their extensive local knowledge to assist police investigations.

 Reflecting on his career in the police so far, he added: “No two days are the same and you could be dealing with anything from minor anti-social behaviour to very serious incidents.

“I particularly like that I get to be out on the front line, in the heart of the community daily, making a difference and contributing to my local community, rather than being stuck inside at a desk.

“On the other hand, I have also experienced difficult and traumatic incidents that most people wouldn’t ever imagine. I’ve had to learn to put these things to the back of my mind and try to move on with each new shift.

“This can be difficult, but policing is a team effort, and everyone’s role is important whether you are a staff member or an officer.

“I work with a supportive team in the Gwynedd North district, and we all pull together and look after each other’s welfare.”

North Wales Police are looking for people who reflect the communities we serve, who can bring diverse experiences and who are willing to protect those who need it most. If you have what it takes to make a difference, apply to become a PCSO on our website today.