Custody Detention Officer

Staffordshire Police; England; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

A local law enforcement agency is seeking a Custody Detention Officer (CDO) to assist with the secure detention and welfare of detainees. The officer will conduct searches, ensure safety, and provide necessary support in two operational custody suites. A full driving license is required, alongside effective communication skills. The position offers a competitive salary and a robust benefits package, with training provided to ensure readiness for the role.

Benefits

Pension Scheme with 21.5% employer contribution

Generous holiday entitlement

Flexible / Agile Working

Access to health and wellbeing support

On site Gyms

Free Parking at selected sites

Qualifications

• Ability to conduct non-intimate searches and records.
• Commitment to ensure safety and well-being of detainees.
• Competence in administering custody IT systems.

Responsibilities

• Conduct searches and log detainee possessions.
• Provide support and reassurances to detainees.
• Administer IT systems and prepare for court.

Skills

Effective communication skills

Compassion and empathy

Education

Full Driving Licence

Job description

Job Location

Custody Detention Officer – Northern Area Custody Facility, Stoke on Trent, ST1 5NP
Southern Area Custody Facility, Watling Street, Stafford, ST19 5PR

Salary

Total salary with Shift and Weekend Working Allowance Added £33,000 - £37,000
Grade D £24,000 - £28,000
Shift / Weekend Allowance – 20% Shift Allowance and 14.22% Weekend Working Allowance.

Contract Type

Permanent

Requirements

Full Driving Licence required

About the Opportunity

We have an exciting opportunity for you to join Staffordshire Police as a Custody Detention Officer (CDO). Custody Detention Officers play a vital role in assisting with the secure detention, care and welfare of detained persons and their property. They support the safe operations of Staffordshire Police’s two operational custody suites – Northern Area Custody Facility and Watling Street Custody.

Responsibilities

• Conduct non‑intimate searches, search and examine to ascertain identity, record and log possessions, take fingerprints and DNA samples, photographs, complete drug testing on arrest and ensure they are secure in a cell.
• Ensure the safety and well‑being of detainees until their transfer or release, provide bedding, food and offer support and reassurance.
• Make regular cell checks and ensure that a sanitary environment is kept at all times.
• Administration of custody IT systems and prepare detainees for court.
• Responsible for delivering a safe and secure environment for those detained in connection with a wide variety of criminal matters.
• Deal with people using effective communication skills, showing compassion and empathy whilst remaining calm when presented with volatile situations.
• Treat detainees with dignity and respect and aim to de‑escalate any situation that may lead to force having to be used. In the situation that this cannot be avoided, reasonable force might be needed in executing the role.
• Monitor cameras to ensure the safety of high‑risk vulnerable people.
• Liaise with solicitors, family members and other partners who work in custody environment.

Training

Training will be provided as an initial 4 week training course to ensure that you have all of the knowledge and skills required for the role. This will be followed by 3 weeks mentoring with an experienced CDO where a competency portfolio will be completed.

Benefits

• Pension Scheme – Employers Pension contribution 21.5% Staffordshire Pension Fund.
• Generous holiday entitlement, plus Bank Holidays.
• Flexible / Agile Working.
• Sick pay scheme.
• Fostering friendly policy.
• Family friendly policies – maternity, paternity, parental leave, adoption, disability leave and carers leave.
• Access to health and wellbeing support.
• Eye care vouchers.
• On site Gyms.
• Staff associations.
• Reward and Recognition.
• Blue light Card.
• Flexible working options.
• Training and development opportunities.
• Car lease scheme.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Free Parking at selected sites.
• Onsite catering facilities.
• Access to Staff Networks.
• Union support.
• Financial products and services.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Statement

Staffordshire Police is fully supportive of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and strives to employ a workforce that represents the community we serve. Our vacancies are open to everyone and all appointments are made based on merit. We encourage and welcome applications from all underrepresented groups which include Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, female, people who have a disability, those who are neurodivergent and persons of the LGBTQ+ community. We use positive action to encourage potential candidates from underrepresented groups through targeted step‑in support and advice sessions.

Application Process

Please complete and submit your form online. You should look to include as much relevant experience, knowledge and skills as you can within the space provided. Where possible, use examples of where you have carried out similar responsibilities in your work. If you are unable to provide work examples, you may use instances from other aspects of your life, but be sure to keep them relevant.

Closing date : Friday 16th January , 12:00 Midday.

Interview dates : 26th January to 4th February.

Course start date : Monday 8th June.