Prisoner Custody Officer

Serco; Gloucester; On-site; GBP 24,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking dedicated individuals to join their team as Prisoner Custody Officers. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the justice system by ensuring the safety and well-being of detainees. As part of a professional team, you'll be responsible for escorting detainees, monitoring their health, and maintaining security in the court environment. The position comes with a competitive salary, continuous training, and a supportive work culture focused on diversity and inclusion. If you are committed to making a difference and thrive in a challenging environment, this role is perfect for you.

Benefits

Pension (matched up to 6%)

Life Insurance

20 days annual leave

Employee Assistance Programme

Health Care Plans

Dental Plans

Discounts on Merlin Attractions

Mobile Phone Discounts

Cinema Discounts

Qualifications

• Commitment to making a difference and handling challenging situations.
• Good written and verbal communication skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Escort defendants to and from courtrooms and other areas safely.
• Monitor and supervise detainees during court sessions.
• Complete necessary paperwork and data entry accurately.

Skills

Verbal Communication

Written Communication

Vigilance

Professionalism

Education

High School Diploma

Tools

Data Entry Software

Job description

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Contract Type: Full Time

Job Advertisement:

Location: Gloucester Crown Court

Salary: £23,402 per annum

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 eligibility for 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.
• A range of benefits to support health and wellbeing, such as Employee Assistance Programme, MIND, Simply Health Care, Dental Plans, and more.
• Access to discounts and exclusive deals such as Merlin Attractions, Mobile Phone discounts, Cinema discounts, and more.
• 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. There will be days when your finishing time could be unpredictable; however, we operate a rota basis (provided 12 weeks in advance) that allows you the flexibility to enjoy 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 maintaining their physical and mental wellbeing. Key duties include:

• Escorting defendants to and from courtrooms, cells, and other areas within the court.
• Monitoring and supervising detainees during court sessions, ensuring security and safety.
• Maintaining discretion and confidentiality while being privy to sensitive information discussed during court proceedings.
• Ensuring that detainees have access to food and drink throughout the day.
• Monitoring the mental and physical health of detainees and reporting any concerns.
• Ensuring the safety and security of the court environment, responding to incidents or emergencies.
• Completing necessary paperwork and data entry accurately.
• Working closely with other court staff, law enforcement, and legal professionals.

What you need to do the job!

Our current PCO’s come to us with different work & life experiences; what matters is your commitment to making a difference. Ideally, you’ll have a current valid driver's license, be reasonably fit, and have good written and verbal communication skills. This role requires a high level of responsibility, vigilance, and the ability to handle challenging situations with professionalism and care.

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 1974, and offers of employment are subject to Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks with Enhanced DBS and satisfactory employment references.

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.

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

#PECS

About Serco
At Serco, the nature of our work is important, and everyone plays a role, from caring for vulnerable people to managing public services. We are a team of 50,000 people delivering essential public services worldwide.

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Please click on the apply button to complete your application. Occasionally, we may bring the closing date forward due to a large volume of applications, so please apply promptly to avoid disappointment.

At Serco, we support fair access to employment for those with unspent criminal convictions through the ‘Ban the Box’ pledge. Please contact our recruitment team directly to discuss.