Prisoner Custody Officer

Serco; High Wycombe; On-site; GBP 24,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking organization as a Prisoner Custody Officer, where your role is crucial in ensuring the safety and security of detainees within the justice system. This position offers a unique opportunity to work in a professional team, providing essential escorting and custody services while focusing on the wellbeing of individuals in your care. With ongoing training and development, you will be part of a supportive culture that values diversity and inclusion. If you are committed to making a difference and thrive in a dynamic environment, this role is for you!

Benefits

Continuous training & development opportunities

Pension (matched up to 6%)

Life insurance

20 days annual leave (rising to 25 after 7 years)

Employee Assistance Programme

Health and wellbeing benefits

Access to discounts and exclusive deals

Qualifications

• Commitment to making a difference and willingness to undergo training.
• Ability to maintain discretion with sensitive information.

Responsibilities

• Escort defendants securely to courtrooms and other areas.
• Monitor and supervise detainees during court sessions.
• Complete necessary paperwork accurately, logging movements.

Skills

Good communication skills

Responsibility

Vigilance

Professionalism

Interest in criminology or psychology

Education

Valid driver's license

Job description

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Contract Type: Full Time

Job Advertisement:

Location: High Wycombe Magistrates 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 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, including Employee Assistance Programme, MIND, Simply Health Care, and Dental Plans.
• Access to discounts and exclusive deals such as Merlin Attractions, Mobile Phone discounts, and more.
• A supportive team & culture focused on diversity and inclusion.

We are operational 24/6, covering 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. A rota (provided 12 weeks in advance) allows flexibility for 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 wellbeing. Key duties include:

• Escorting defendants to and from courtrooms, cells, and other areas, ensuring security and safety.
• Monitoring and supervising detainees during court sessions, ensuring they remain secure.
• Maintaining discretion with sensitive information and providing support to detainees.
• Ensuring detainees have access to food and drink, catering to dietary requirements.
• Monitoring the health of detainees and reporting concerns.
• Ensuring the safety and security of the court environment, responding to incidents.
• Completing necessary paperwork accurately, including logging movements and incidents.
• Collaborating with court staff, law enforcement, and legal professionals for secure operations.

What you need to do the job!

Our PCOs come with diverse experiences; commitment to making a difference is what matters. Training will be provided during a 5 1/2-week course.

Ideally, you’ll have a valid driver's license, be reasonably fit, and possess good communication skills. This role requires responsibility, vigilance, and professionalism. Interest in criminology or psychology is beneficial.

Our Assessment Process:

Briefing call to assess eligibility -> Competency-based Virtual Interview -> Role-play and written exercise.

Additional Information:

All roles are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, with offers subject to Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks and satisfactory references.

This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship under current UK Home Office rules. Candidates must meet the following 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.

About Serco:

At Serco, we deliver essential public services worldwide in various sectors. Join us to access our Global Employee Networks focused on diversity and inclusion.

Apply:

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At Serco, we support fair access to employment for those with unspent criminal convictions through the ‘Ban the Box’ pledge.