Prison Custody Officer

Sodexo; Ashford; On-site; GBP 33,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading facility management company seeks a Prison Custody Officer in Ashford, England, to maintain safety and security within prison facilities. This role offers meaningful opportunities to support rehabilitation and build professional relationships. Starting salary is £32,772.61 plus London Weighting. The position includes comprehensive training, great benefits, and opportunities for progression, fostering an inclusive workplace accessible to applicants from diverse backgrounds.

Benefits

Free meals

Subsidised gym membership

Life assurance

BUPA healthcare

Qualifications

• Be at least 18 years of age at the time your employment begins.
• Meet required eyesight standards in both eyes, with or without corrective lenses.
• Have an adequate level of hearing without the use of hearing aids.

Responsibilities

• Maintain a secure and disciplined prison environment.
• Supervise daily routines, prisoner movements and scheduled activities.
• Escort prisoners securely within and outside the facility.

Skills

Calm under pressure

Effective communication

Empathy & respect

Strong ethics

Conflict resolution

Teamwork

Vigilance

Job description

Prison Custody Officer – HMP Bronzefield

Secure the present, shape the future – Transform Lives. As a Prison Custody Officer you play a crucial role in maintaining safety, security and order in our prison facilities. This is more than just a job— it is a meaningful opportunity to support rehabilitation, ensure justice and contribute to the wider community.

What You'll Do

• Maintain a secure and disciplined prison environment
• Supervise daily routines, prisoner movements and scheduled activities
• Escort prisoners securely within and outside the facility
• Respond calmly and professionally to challenging or high‑pressure situations
• Support rehabilitation initiatives and encourage positive behaviours
• Build respectful, professional relationships with prisoners to promote a safer, more supportive atmosphere

Who We're Looking For

We welcome applicants from all walks of life—whether you are a parent, former teacher, retail worker, member of the armed forces or someone who thrives on helping others. If you are a natural people person with strong communication skills, self‑confidence, empathy and resilience, we want to hear from you.

Applicants will work with individuals who may be at the lowest point in their lives and are expected to build constructive, professional relationships that are based on fairness, consistency and respect. We encourage applications from women to support greater representation across the workforce.

We remain fully committed to fair, open and non‑discriminatory recruitment practices and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.

The Behaviours That Make a Great Officer

• Calm under pressure — manage high‑stress or unpredictable situations with a level head
• Empathy & respect — treat everyone with dignity, regardless of circumstances
• Strong ethics — maintain fairness, professionalism and integrity at all times
• Resilience & adaptability — remain composed and effective even when the job gets tough
• Effective communication — listen actively and speak clearly and confidently
• Conflict resolution — use de‑escalation techniques to manage tension and disputes
• Teamwork — collaborate closely with colleagues for the safety and success of all
• Vigilance — remain observant, alert and responsive to potential risks

Training and Development

No prior experience required. You will receive an 8‑week comprehensive training programme delivered locally, which includes:

• Classroom and practical learning
• Conflict resolution and communication training
• Shadowing experienced officers
• Continued development and support throughout your career

Eligibility Criteria

• Be at least 18 years of age at the time your employment begins
• Meet the required eyesight standards in both eyes, with or without corrective lenses
• Have an adequate level of hearing without the use of hearing aids for safety reasons during training and operational duties
• Tattoos are permitted, including those that are visible, but must not be offensive, discriminatory, violent or intimidating. Facial tattoos are generally not allowed unless they are for cultural, religious or medical reasons

What We Offer

• Starting salary £32,772.61 + (London Weighting £3,729.24) with annual increases over the initial 5 years of service
• Free meals (if applicable) and parking
• Access to an on‑site gym and subsidised gym membership
• Opportunity to earn overtime (subject to availability)
• Comprehensive paid training and progression opportunities
• Life assurance, BUPA healthcare, pension schemes and more

Application Process

• Pre‑screening process within a few days of your submission
• Assessment centre interview
• Full security clearance checks
• Note: this position is not eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route

About the Company

We’re all about building a workplace for the future. We believe in equal opportunities and celebrate diversity. We’re an inclusive workplace where everyone is welcome and can be the best version of themselves.