Prisoner Custody Officer

Serco; Brighton; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading security services provider in the United Kingdom is seeking a Prisoner Custody Officer to contribute to the justice system by ensuring the safety and security of detainees during court processes. The ideal candidate will be vigilant, have excellent communication skills, and demonstrate compassion. This role offers competitive salary, benefits, and opportunities for growth in a dynamic environment.

Benefits

Base salary increment opportunities

Pension contributions

Employee Assistance Programme

Discounts on various services

Qualifications

• Current valid driver's license.
• Reasonably fit for physical tasks.
• Commitment to making a difference.

Responsibilities

• Escort detainees during court proceedings.
• Monitor and supervise detainees for safety.
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism.
• Ensure detainees' physical and mental wellbeing.
• Complete necessary paperwork accurately.

Skills

Written communication skills

Verbal communication skills

Vigilance

Ability to handle challenging situations

Job description

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Permanent roles offering job stability & security

Working as a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS) is more than just a role—it’s an opportunity to be part of a professional team that plays a vital role in the justice system, ensuring safety and security every day. We also offer:

• Base Salary of £, (hrs pw).
• We believe in recognising your contributions and growth, so as well as continuous training & development opportunities, every year, you will be eligible for a base salary increment, allowing you to see tangible progress in your earnings (year 2 - £, / year 3 - £, / year 4 - £,)
• Pension (matched up to 6%), life insurance; days annual leave (rising to after 7 years’ service) plus Bank Holidays.
• A range of benefits to support the health and wellbeing of you and your family such as Employee Assistance Programme, MIND, Simply Health Care and Dental Plans and more
• Access to a range of discounts and exclusive deals such as Merlin Attractions, Mobile Phone discounts, Cinema discounts, Leisure, Retail and Hospitality discounts and more
• A supportive team & culture where you’ll get the chance to make a positive difference in a company passionate about diversity and inclusion

We are operational /6 and you’ll cover various early and late shifts, hrs pw. Flexibility is key as due to the nature of role there are a range of different working arrangements & additional hours. There will be days when your finishing time could be unpredictable, however, we operate a rota basis (provided weeks in advance) that allows you the flexibility to enjoy meaningful time off to do the things you enjoy & love.

About the Role:

As a PCO at our court, you’ll work as part of a team to provide safe and secure escorting and custody services to detainees, focusing on maintaining their physical and mental wellbeing. During court proceedings, you’ll be responsible for every aspect of detainee management until it’s time for them to return to custody or be released. Key duties include:

• Escorting defendants to and from courtrooms, cells, and other areas within the court, including accompanying them to the toilet to ensure security and safety. This may involve being handcuffed to the detainee.
• Monitoring and supervising detainees while they are in the docks during court sessions, ensuring they remain secure and do not pose a risk to themselves or others.
• Being privy to sensitive and confidential information discussed during court proceedings, including testimonies, legal arguments etc. Maintaining discretion and confidentiality is paramount. Being prepared to listen to harrowing and distressing testimonies and evidence. It is crucial to maintain professionalism and provide support to detainees while managing your own emotional wellbeing.
• Ensuring that detainees have access to food and drink throughout the day, catering to any dietary requirements or restrictions.
• Monitoring the mental and physical health of detainees, providing support and reporting any concerns to the appropriate authorities.
• Ensuring the safety and security of the court environment, including responding to any incidents or emergencies that may arise. Conducting thorough searches of property and individuals to prevent contraband from entering secure areas.
• Completing necessary paperwork and data entry accurately, including logging detainee movements, incidents, and any other relevant information.
• Working closely with other court staff, law enforcement, and legal professionals to ensure smooth and secure court operations

What you need to do the job!

Our current PCO’s come to us with different work & life experiences, what you’ve done before doesn’t matter, what matters is that you’re committed to making a difference to the lives of others – the rest you will learn during your 5 1/2-weeks training course and through our experienced colleagues.

Ideally, you’ll have a current valid driver's license, be reasonably fit and have good written and verbal communications skills, using those skills to manage and control all situations. This role requires a high level of responsibility, vigilance, and the ability to handle challenging situations with professionalism and care. You will be an integral part of the judicial process, ensuring that justice is administered safely and securely. Our roles would suit those who have a particular interest in criminology or psychology.

Our Assessment Process:

Briefing call to assess eligibility -> Competency based Virtual Interview -> short role-play and written exercise.

Additional Information:

All roles are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 4, and all offers of employment are subject to Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks with Enhanced DBS (Adult & Child Barring) and satisfactory employment references.

This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship under current UK Home Office rules, as it does not meet the required salary or skill level criteria. Whilst we encourage applications to other roles, candidates who already have a valid right to work in the UK through other immigration routes or permissions must meet the below minimum eligibility criteria :

• Have at least two years remaining on your current visa
• Have lived in the UK for at least one year, as vetting process requires a counter-signatory from a recognised professional who has known you for that duration.

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