Prisoner Custody Officer

Serco; Croydon; On-site; GBP 27,220 - 30,172; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

20 days annual leave

Contributory pension scheme

Training and development opportunities

Employee Assistance Programme

Discounts on major retailers

Job summary

Serco is hiring a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Croydon. The position involves escorting and supervising detainees to ensure safety within the justice system. The role requires strong communication skills and the ability to maintain confidentiality.

Benefits include 20 days of annual leave, a contributory pension scheme, and training and development opportunities. Join us in making a positive impact within the justice system.

Qualifications

• Full UK driving licence (B/B1) – desirable.
• Reasonable fitness for the physical demands of the role.
• Confidence in managing behaviour and de-escalating conflict.

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 strict confidentiality.
• Support detainee welfare by providing 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 to ensure smooth operations.

Skills

Strong written and verbal communication skills

Ability to stay calm and make decisions under pressure

Teamwork

Professionalism, integrity, and respect for confidentiality

Job description

Role

Join us as a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS) where you’ll play a key role in keeping the justice system safe and secure. The role offers job security and stability.

Location

Croydon, Surrey, CR9 5AB

Salary

£27,220 per year (35 hours per week), rising to £28,179 from 1 September 2026. Further clear annual progression is available: Year 2 – £28,865; Year 3 – £29,508; Year 4 – £30,172.

Schedule

We operate 24/6 across early and late shifts. Flexibility is essential, and you may need to work beyond your contracted hours to meet operational demands. Shifts are set on a rota 12 weeks in advance. Part‑time working may be considered only across full working days; reduced daily hours are not available.

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 strict confidentiality
• Support detainee welfare by providing 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 to ensure smooth operations

Requirements

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

Benefits

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