Prisoner Custody Officer

Serco Group Plc; Canterbury; On-site; GBP 23,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading justice services provider in Canterbury seeks a Prisoner Custody Officer to ensure the safety and security of detainees during court procedures. Key responsibilities include escorting defendants, monitoring detainee welfare, and maintaining confidentiality during court activities. Candidates should be committed to safety and have good communication skills, as well as manage challenging situations with professionalism. This role includes a base salary with annual increments and a variety of employee benefits.

Benefits

Pension (matched up to 6%)

Life insurance

20 days annual leave

Employee Assistance Programme

Discounts on attractions and services

Qualifications

• Current valid driver’s license may be required.
• Ability to manage and control challenging situations professionally.
• Commitment to maintaining safety and security during court proceedings.

Responsibilities

• Escort defendants between courtrooms and custody.
• Monitor and supervise detainees during court sessions.
• Ensure safety and security in the court environment.

Skills

Verbal communication skills

Written communication skills

Ability to handle challenging situations

Job description

Overview

Working as a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS) is a professional role within the justice system, focused on safety and security. 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 manage detainees until they return to custody or are released.

Responsibilities

• Escort 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.
• Monitor and supervise detainees in the docks during court sessions, ensuring they remain secure and do not pose a risk to themselves or others.
• Maintain discretion and confidentiality with sensitive information discussed during court proceedings (testimonies, legal arguments, etc.). Provide support to detainees while managing your own emotional wellbeing.
• Ensure detainees have access to food and drink throughout the day, catering to any dietary requirements or restrictions.
• Monitor the mental and physical health of detainees, provide support, and report concerns to the appropriate authorities.
• Ensure the safety and security of the court environment; respond to incidents or emergencies; conduct thorough searches of property and individuals to prevent contraband from entering secure areas.
• Complete necessary paperwork and data entry accurately, including logging detainee movements, incidents, and other relevant information.
• Work 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 PCOs come from diverse work and life experiences; what you’ve done before matters less than your commitment to making a difference. You will learn during a 5 1/2-week training course and with experienced colleagues.

Ideally, you’ll have a current valid driver’s license, be reasonably fit, and have good written and verbal communication skills to manage and control all situations. The role requires 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. The roles may suit those with an interest in criminology or psychology.

Assessment Process

Assessment includes: briefing call to assess eligibility, competency-based virtual interview, short role-play and written exercise.

Eligibility and Conditions

All roles are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Offers 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. Candidates with existing right to work in the UK may need to meet minimum eligibility criteria, including at least two years remaining on their current visa and at least one year of residence in the UK for vetting purposes.

For general right-to-work guidance, please visit the UK Home Office website.

Salary and Benefits

• Base salary with annual increments based on progression (example progression: £23,984/year; £24,436/year; £24,890/year).
• Pension (matched up to 6%), life insurance; 20 days annual leave (rising to 25 after 7 years’ service) plus Bank Holidays.
• Employee benefits supporting health and wellbeing, including Employee Assistance Programme, MIND, Simply Health Care and Dental Plans, and more.
• Discounts and exclusive deals on attractions, mobile services, cinema, leisure, retail, and hospitality.
• A supportive team and culture focused on diversity and inclusion.

We are operational 24/6 and work a variety of early and late shifts, 35 hours per week. Flexibility is required due to the nature of the role, with a rota provided 12 weeks in advance to allow meaningful time off.