Prisoner Custody Officer

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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 £23,402 (35hrs pw).
• Continuous training & development opportunities, with annual salary increments (year 2 - £23,984 / year 3 - £24,436 / year 4 - £24,890).
• Pension (matched up to 6%), life insurance; 20 days annual leave (rising to 25 after 7 years’ service) plus Bank Holidays.
• Employee Assistance Programme, MIND, Simply Health Care and Dental Plans.
• Access to discounts on Merlin Attractions, mobile phones, cinema, leisure, retail, and hospitality.
• A supportive team & culture focused on diversity and inclusion.

We are operational 24/6 and you’ll cover various early and late shifts, 35hrs pw. Flexibility is key due to the nature of the role, with a range of different working arrangements & additional hours. Your finishing time could be unpredictable, but we operate a rota basis (provided 12 weeks in advance) that allows you meaningful time off.

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 their physical and mental wellbeing. Key duties include:

• Escorting defendants to and from courtrooms, cells, and other areas, including accompanying them to the toilet.
• Monitoring and supervising detainees in the docks during court sessions.
• Maintaining discretion and confidentiality regarding sensitive information discussed during court proceedings.
• Ensuring detainees have access to food and drink throughout the day.
• Monitoring the mental and physical health of detainees, reporting any concerns.
• Ensuring the safety and security of the court environment, responding to incidents or emergencies.
• Completing necessary paperwork and data entry accurately.
• Collaborating with court staff, law enforcement, and legal professionals.

What you need to do the job!

Our current PCOs come with various work & life experiences. Commitment to making a difference is paramount—training will be provided. Ideally, you’ll have a current valid driver's license, be reasonably fit, and possess good written and verbal communication skills. This role requires responsibility, vigilance, and professionalism.

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 1974, and all offers are subject to Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks. This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship under current UK Home Office rules. Candidates 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.

About Serco
At Serco, everyone plays an important role in delivering essential public services. We are a team of 50,000 responsible for areas including defence, transport, justice, immigration, healthcare, and citizen services.

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We support fair access to employment for those with unspent criminal convictions through the ‘Ban the Box’ pledge. Contact our recruitment team directly to discuss.