Prisoner Custody Officer

Serco Group Plc; Greater London; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A Private Security Services Company in Greater London seeks a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) to escort and support detainees, ensuring their safety and wellbeing. Responsibilities include monitoring detainees during court, assisting with their needs, and maintaining security in the courtroom. A commitment to professionalism, communication skills, and the ability to handle challenging situations are essential for this role, which offers competitive salary and benefits including pension and annual leave.

Benefits

Pension matched up to 6%

Life insurance

Annual leave of 20 days

Health and wellbeing benefits

Qualifications

• Current valid driver's license.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to handle challenging situations.

Responsibilities

• Escort detainees securely to court sessions.
• Monitor and supervise detainees during court.
• Ensure safety and security within the court.

Skills

Communication Skills

Vigilance

Physical Fitness

Professionalism

Job description

Overview

Working as a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS) involves being part of a professional team that ensures safety and security within the justice system. As a PCO at our court, you will provide safe and secure escorting and custody services to detainees, focusing on maintaining their physical and mental wellbeing while in our care.

Key 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 for sensitive information discussed during court proceedings, including testimonies and legal arguments. Be prepared to listen to harrowing and distressing testimonies while maintaining professionalism and supporting detainees, and manage 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, including responding to incidents or emergencies and conducting thorough searches of property and individuals to prevent contraband.
• Complete necessary paperwork and data entry accurately, including logging detainee movements, incidents, and other relevant information.

Collaboration

Work closely with other court staff, law enforcement, and legal professionals to ensure smooth and secure court operations.

Candidate Profile

Our current PCOs come from diverse backgrounds; what matters is your commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. You will learn during our 5 1/2-week training course and through our experienced colleagues. Ideally, you will 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 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. This role may suit individuals with an interest in criminology or psychology.

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. All 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, as it does not meet the required salary or skill level criteria. Applicants who already have a valid right to work in the UK 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 (vetting requires a counter-signatory from a recognised professional who has known you for that duration)

Proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme. Disability Confident: An employer that will generally offer an interview to any applicant who declares a disability and meets the minimum criteria for the job. Details may vary in certain recruitment situations.

Compensation and Benefits

Base Salary of £26,026 (35 hours per week). In addition to base pay, you will be eligible for annual salary increments and a benefits package that includes pension (matched up to 6%), life insurance; 20 days annual leave (rising to 25 after 7 years’ service) plus Bank Holidays. A range of health and wellbeing benefits and access to discounts are provided.

Working Hours

This role is operational 24/6 with early and late shifts, 35 hours per week. Flexibility is required due to the nature of the role. We operate a rota provided 12 weeks in advance to offer time off for personal commitments.