Prisoner Custody Officer

Serco Group Plc; Plymouth; On-site; GBP 23,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading security services company in Plymouth is seeking a Professional Court Officer (PCO) to provide safe escorting and custody services for detainees. Responsibilities include managing detainee well-being, ensuring court safety, and maintaining confidentiality. The ideal candidate will be fit, possess strong communication skills, and handle challenging situations professionally. The role offers a base salary starting at £23,402 with annual increments, along with various benefits including pension and healthcare plans.

Benefits

Pension (matched up to 6%)

Life insurance

Employee Assistance Programme

Discounts on leisure and retail

Qualifications

• Current valid driver's license is required.
• Reasonably fit to perform the duties of the role.
• Interest in criminology or psychology is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Escort defendants to and from courtrooms and cells.
• Monitor and supervise detainees during court sessions.
• Ensure safety and security in the court environment.
• Complete necessary paperwork accurately and report concerns.

Skills

Good written and verbal communication skills

Vigilance and responsibility

Professionalism in challenging situations

Job description

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. During court proceedings, you'll be responsible for every aspect of detainee management until it's time for them to return to custody or be released.

Key Duties

• Escorting 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.
• Monitoring and supervising detainees while they are in the docks during court sessions, ensuring they remain secure and do not pose a risk to themselves or others.
• Being privy to sensitive and confidential information discussed during court proceedings, including testimonies, legal arguments etc. Maintaining discretion and confidentiality is paramount. Being prepared to listen to harrowing and distressing testimonies and evidence. It is crucial to maintain professionalism and provide support to detainees while managing your own emotional wellbeing.
• Ensuring that detainees have access to food and drink throughout the day, catering to any dietary requirements or restrictions.
• Monitoring the mental and physical health of detainees, providing support and reporting any concerns to the appropriate authorities.
• Ensuring the safety and security of the court environment, including responding to any incidents or emergencies that may arise. Conducting thorough searches of property and individuals to prevent contraband from entering secure areas.
• Completing necessary paperwork and data entry accurately, including logging detainee movements, incidents, and any other relevant information.
• Working closely with other court staff, law enforcement, and legal professionals to ensure smooth and secure court operations.

Qualifications

• Current valid driver’s licence.
• Reasonably fit.
• Good written and verbal communication skills, using them to manage and control all situations.
• High level of responsibility, vigilance, and the ability to handle challenging situations with professionalism and care.
• Interest in criminology or psychology is desirable.

Assessment Process

• Briefing call to assess eligibility.
• Competency based virtual interview.
• Short role‑play and written exercise.

All staff have a responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and vulnerable young adults. The post holder must undertake the appropriate level of training and is responsible for ensuring that they understand and work within the safeguarding policies of the organisation.

Employment Details

• All roles are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, and all offers of employment are subject to Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks with Enhanced DBS (Adult & Child Barring) and satisfactory employment references.
• 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.
• Eligibility for right‑to‑work: have at least two years remaining on your current visa; have lived in the UK for at least one year, with a recognised professional counter‑signatory who has known you for that duration.
• Base Salary of £23,402 (35 hrs per week).
• 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 of service) plus Bank Holidays.
• Benefits: Employee Assistance Programme, MIND, Simply Health Care and Dental Plans; access to discounts and exclusive deals such as Merlin Attractions, Mobile Phone discounts, Cinema discounts, Leisure, Retail and Hospitality; supportive team and culture.
• Operational shift: 24/6 schedule with early and late shifts, 35 hrs per week; flexible rota basis.