Courtroom Escort & Custody Officer

Serco; Croydon; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 32,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Holidays: 20 days rising to 25 after 7

Pension: Up to 6% matched

Training & development

Health & wellbeing: EAP, MIND support,

Retail discounts

Job summary

Serco is hiring a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) to join the Prisoner Escort Custody Services in Croydon. You will help keep the justice system safe by escorting detainees, supporting welfare, and maintaining security across court proceedings.

The role requires strong communication, calm decision-making under pressure, and teamwork. Shifts can include early/late, with 35-hour weeks and potential for additional hours to meet demand.

Qualifications

• Full UK driving licence is desirable
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to stay calm and make decisions under pressure
• Confidence managing behaviour and de-escalating conflict
• Teamwork and ability to follow processes accurately
• Professionalism, integrity, and respect for confidentiality

Responsibilities

• Escort detainees within the court, including to courtrooms, cells and facilities
• Supervise detainees during hearings to maintain safety and security
• Manage sensitive situations and maintain strict confidentiality
• Support detainee welfare, including access to food, drink and wellbeing checks
• Monitor behaviour and respond to incidents or risks; conduct searches to maintain a secure environment
• Complete accurate records and documentation
• Work closely with court staff and partners to ensure smooth operations

Skills

Driving licence (UK)

Strong communication

Calm under pressure

Job description

Serco is hiring a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) to join the Prisoner Escort Custody Services in Croydon. You will help keep the justice system safe by escorting detainees, supporting welfare, and maintaining security across court proceedings.

The role requires strong communication, calm decision-making under pressure, and teamwork. Shifts can include early/late, with 35-hour weeks and potential for additional hours to meet demand.