Prisoner Custody Officer

Serco; Matlock Bath CP; On-site; GBP 22,000 - 24,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking company as a Prisoner Custody Officer, where you will be part of a dedicated team making a positive impact every day. This role involves providing safe and secure escorting and custody services to detainees, focusing on their wellbeing while ensuring the security of the court environment. With continuous training, a supportive culture, and a commitment to diversity, this position offers a rewarding career path. If you are ready to take on the responsibility and make a difference in the justice system, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Benefits

Continuous training & development

Pension (matched up to 6%)

Life insurance

Employee Assistance Programme

Health and wellbeing plans

Annual leave (20 days, rising to 25)

Access to discounts and exclusive deals

Qualifications

• Commitment to making a difference is essential.
• Good written and verbal communication skills are needed.

Responsibilities

• Provide safe escorting and custody services to detainees.
• Monitor and supervise detainees during court sessions.
• Ensure safety and security in the court environment.

Skills

Communication Skills

Vigilance

Responsibility

Ability to Handle Challenging Situations

Fitness

Education

Interest in Criminology or Psychology

Tools

Driver's License

Job description

Working as a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS) is more than just a job; it’s the chance to be a part of something great, to join a work family where you are valued, and you can make a difference every day. In addition to a rewarding career, we also offer:

• Base Salary of £22,502 (35hrs pw)
• Continuous training & development opportunities, with annual salary increments (year 2 - £23,062 / year 3 - £23,469 / year 4 - £23,933)
• 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, Dental Plans and more for health and wellbeing.
• Access to discounts and exclusive deals such as Merlin Attractions, Mobile Phone discounts, Cinema discounts, Leisure, Retail and Hospitality discounts and more.
• A supportive team & culture where you’ll make a positive difference in a company passionate about 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. Your finishing time could be unpredictable; however, we operate a rota basis (provided 12 weeks in advance) that allows you to enjoy meaningful time off.

We are open to considering part-time positions for day shifts only, but full-time attendance is required during the initial training period of 5 1/2 weeks.

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, including accompanying them to the toilet to ensure security and safety.
• Monitoring and supervising detainees during court sessions, ensuring they remain secure.
• Maintaining discretion and confidentiality regarding sensitive information discussed during court proceedings.
• Ensuring detainees have access to food and drink, catering to dietary requirements.
• Monitoring mental and physical health of detainees, providing support and reporting any concerns.
• Ensuring safety and security in the court environment, responding to incidents or emergencies.
• Completing necessary paperwork and data entry accurately.
• Working closely with court staff, law enforcement, and legal professionals.

What you need to do the job!

Our current PCOs come with various work & life experiences. What matters is your commitment to making a difference – the rest will be learned during your training course and through experienced colleagues.

Ideally, you’ll have a valid driver's license, be reasonably fit, and possess good written and verbal communication skills. This role requires responsibility, vigilance, and the ability to handle challenging situations professionally. Our roles suit those with an interest in criminology or psychology.

Online Assessment -> 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. Employment offers are subject to Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks and satisfactory employment references.

About Serco
At Serco, we deliver essential public services in areas including defence, transport, justice, immigration, healthcare, and citizen services. We are committed to improving public services for the benefit of everyone.

By joining Serco, you’ll have access to our Global Employee Networks – SercoInspire (Gender), SercoEmbrace (Multicultural), SercoUnlimited (Disability), and In@Serco (LGBT & Networks).

Apply
Please click on the apply button to complete your application. Apply promptly to avoid disappointment due to high application volumes.

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 to discuss.