PCSOs facing the chop will be protected, promised the Bedfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner.
Government funding cuts of 20 per cent meant 40 per cent of Beds PCSOs were facing the axe, but commissioner Olly Martins said he was determined to save the “crucial resource”.
Supporting his views, Mr Martins will be in Leighton Buzzard on Monday to meet some of the PCSOs whose jobs he is determined to save.
Mr Martins said: “It has become abundantly clear to me just how valued PCSOs are in the communities they serve and how their presence contributes to feelings of safety and wellbeing for residents, particularly in rural areas.
“Public confidence is as important to policing as reducing offences and has a positive effect on quality of life.
“It is clear PCSOs are playing a key role in reassurance and reducing the fear of crime.”
Saving the PCSOs will come at a cost, equating to an increase of 6p a week for the average council tax band D householder.
Mr Martins said: “This small rise will help protect this highly respected element of local policing, while helping to ensure that we continue to make residents feel safe.”
> Confirmation of the time and location of Mr Martins’ visit will be announced on Monday.