Prisoner Custody Officer

Serco Limited; Barnstaple; On-site; GBP 24,596 - 27,180; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Holidays: 20 days + bank holidays

Pension up to 6%

Induction and ongoing training

Wellbeing support and EAP

Job summary

Serco Limited is seeking a Prisoner Custody Officer in Barnstaple to support Prisoner Escort Custody Services. You will escort detainees, monitor safety during hearings and manage incidents on a 24/6 shift schedule.

The role requires flexibility with rota‑based hours and potential for extended hours to meet operational needs. The position offers a structured progression path with salary growth over time and a focus on safeguarding, confidentiality and welfare of detainees.

Qualifications

• Full UK driving licence (B/B1) desirable.
• Reasonable fitness for physical demands.
• 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.
• 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 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 for smooth operations.

Skills

Driving licence

Fitness

Communication

Decision making

Conflict de‑escalation

Teamwork

Professionalism

Job description

Location: Barnstaple County Court, EX31 1DU

Join us as a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS) where you'll play a key role in helping keep the justice system safe and secured. In addition to job security and stability we offer:

• Salary: £24,596 (35hrs pw), rising to £25,555 from 1st September 2026
• Further clear annual progression (Year 2: £26,191; Year 3: £26,684; Year 4: £27,180).

We operate 24/6 across early and late shifts, so flexibility is essential. Finishing times can be unpredictable, and you may need to work beyond your contracted hours to meet operational demands. Shifts are set on a rota provided 12 weeks in advance, giving you visibility to plan ahead. Part-time working may be considered, but this must be across full working days, as reduced daily hours are not available.

Keep people safe. Keep justice moving.

Key duties

• Escorting detainees within the court, including to courtrooms, cells, and facilities
• Supervising detainees during hearings to maintain safety and security
• Managing sensitive situations and maintaining strict confidentiality
• Supporting detainee welfare, including access to food, drink, and wellbeing checks
• Monitoring behaviour and responding to incidents or risks
• Conducting searches to maintain a secure environment
• Completing accurate records and documentation
• Working closely with court staff and partners to ensure smooth operations

Requirements of the role

• Full UK driving licence (B/B1) (desirable)
• Reasonable fitness for the physical demands of the role
• Strong communication skills (written and verbal)
• Ability to stay calm and make decisions under pressure
• Confidence managing behaviour and de‑escalating conflict
• Teamwork and the ability to follow processes accurately
• Professionalism, integrity, and respect for confidentiality

What we offer

• Holidays: 20 days (rising to 25 after 7 years' service) plus bank holidays (pro rata)
• Pension: Up to 6% contributory pension scheme (matched by Serco)
• Training and development: Structured induction (5½ weeks), ongoing learning, access to internal courses and qualifications, mentoring, and a strong focus on internal progression
• Health and wellbeing: Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), support from mental health charity MIND, Simply Health cash and dental plans, wellbeing resources, discount on membership at Serco‑run gyms
• Discounts: Savings across major retailers and experiences, including Merlin attractions, cinema, leisure, retail, hospitality, mobile plans, and more

Our recruitment process

• Online application inc. eligibility questions and online assessments
• Virtual assessment: Competency based interview, short roleplay and written exercise (online)
• Initial right to work and vetting documentation checks
• Job offer and confirmation of your training start date

Eligibility checks and further information

Job offers are subject to Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks with Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance, satisfactory employment references and occupational health checks. This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. All roles are subject to random alcohol and drug testing.

This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship under current UK Home Office regulations. You must have the right to work in the UK. If you do have a visa, it must have at least two years remaining, and you must have at least one year's UK residency (to enable required counter signatory checks by a recognised professional).

All colleagues share responsibility for safeguarding children and vulnerable adults and must complete the required training and follow our safeguarding policies.