Prisoner Custody Officer

Serco Group Plc; Portsmouth; On-site; GBP 23,000 - 27,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading security services company in Portsmouth is seeking a Prisoner Custody Officer to ensure the safety and security of detainees during court proceedings. This role includes escorting detainees, monitoring their wellbeing, and maintaining confidentiality in sensitive situations. Ideal candidates should be vigilant, possess good communication skills, and be ready for a challenging yet rewarding role. The position offers a salary starting at £23,402 with progression opportunities and various benefits.

Benefits

Pension (matched up to 6%)

Health and wellbeing benefits

20 days annual leave rising to 25

Discounts on various services

Qualifications

• Current valid driver's license preferred.
• Reasonably fit to perform the duties required.
• Willingness to learn and adapt during training.

Responsibilities

• Escort defendants securely during court proceedings.
• Monitor and supervise detainees to ensure safety.
• Support detainees' physical and mental wellbeing.

Skills

Written communication skills

Verbal communication skills

Vigilance

Ability to handle challenging situations

Job description

Overview

Working as a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS) is a role that contributes to safety and security within the justice system. As a PCO at our court, you will 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 will be responsible for detainee management until it is time for them to return to custody or be released.

Key responsibilities

• Escort defendants to and from courtrooms, cells, and other areas within the court, including accompanying them as required to ensure security and safety (this may involve being handcuffed to the detainee).
• Monitor and supervise detainees in the docks during court sessions to ensure security and safety for themselves and others.
• Maintain discretion and confidentiality regarding sensitive information discussed during court proceedings; be prepared to listen to harrowing and distressing testimonies and evidence while upholding professionalism and supporting detainees and your own 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, providing support and reporting concerns to the appropriate authorities.
• Ensure the safety and security of the court environment and respond to incidents or emergencies; conduct thorough searches of property and individuals to prevent contraband from entering secure areas.
• Complete necessary paperwork and data entry accurately, including logging detainee movements, incidents, and other relevant information.
• Work closely with other court staff, law enforcement, and legal professionals to ensure smooth and secure court operations.

What you need to do the job

Our current PCOs come from diverse backgrounds; what you have done before matters less than your commitment to making a difference. You will learn during a 5 1/2-week training course and through collaboration with experienced colleagues.

Ideally, you will 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. You will be an integral part of the judicial process, helping ensure justice is administered safely and securely. The role may appeal to those with an interest in criminology or psychology.

Assessment process

1. Briefing call to assess eligibility
2. Competency-based virtual interview
3. Short role-play and written exercise

Eligibility and employment checks

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. Candidates must meet minimum eligibility criteria if they already have the right to work in the UK via other routes:

• Have at least two years remaining on the current visa
• Have lived in the UK for at least one year, as vetting requires a counter-signatory from a recognised professional who has known you for that duration

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

Disability Confident and diversity

Proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme. We are a Disability Confident employer, and in appropriate recruitment situations we may offer an interview to applicants who declare a disability and meet the minimum job criteria. Details on Disability Confident can be found on the relevant pages.

Salary and benefits

• Base salary of £23,402 (35 hours per week).
• Annual pay progression: £23,984 (year 2), £24,436 (year 3), £24,890 (year 4).
• Pension (matched up to 6%), life insurance; 20 days annual leave (rising to 25 after 7 years’ service) plus Bank Holidays.
• Health and wellbeing benefits: Employee Assistance Programme, Mind, Simply Health Care and Dental Plans, among others.
• Discounts and exclusive deals on Merlin Attractions, mobile phone plans, cinema, leisure, retail and hospitality.
• A supportive team and culture that values diversity and inclusion.

Working pattern

Roles are operational 24/6; you will cover various early and late shifts, 35 hours per week. Flexibility is key due to the nature of the role, with a rota provided 12 weeks in advance to help you plan meaningful time off.