Prisoner Custody Officer

Serco Limited; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading security service provider seeks individuals for a permanent position at Woolwich Crown Court. The role involves escorting defendants, supervising detainees, and maintaining security during court sessions. Candidates should have good communication skills and an interest in criminology or psychology. The position offers a starting salary of £26,026 with annual increments, pension, and various benefits including generous leave and employee assistance programs.

Benefits

Pension matched up to 6%

Life insurance

20 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays

Employee Assistance Programme

Discounts on various services and attractions

Qualifications

• Current valid driver’s licence is required.
• Reasonably fit and capable of managing stress.
• Commitment to making a difference; experience not necessary.

Responsibilities

• Escort defendants and maintain their security in court.
• Monitor and supervise detainees during court sessions.
• Maintain confidentiality and manage sensitive information.

Skills

Good written and verbal communication skills

Ability to handle challenging situations

Interest in criminology or psychology

Job description

Serco Limited – Woolwich Crown Court, 2 Belmarsh Way, London SE28 0EY. Permanent role offering job stability & security.

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.
• Monitor and supervise detainees while they are in the docks during court sessions, ensuring they remain secure and do not pose a risk to themselves or others.
• Maintain discretion and confidentiality with sensitive information discussed during court proceedings.
• Provide professional support to detainees while managing your own emotional wellbeing when listening to distressing testimonies and evidence.
• 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 any concerns to the appropriate authorities.
• Maintain 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.
• Work 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 with good written and verbal communication skills.
• High level of responsibility, vigilance, and the ability to handle challenging situations with professionalism and care.
• Interest in criminology or psychology is desirable.
• Commitment to making a difference to the lives of others; relevant experience is not required.

Assessment Process

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

Benefits

• Base salary of £26,026 (35 hrs per week) with annual increments: £26,658 (Year 2), £27,260 (Year 3), £27,882 (Year 4).
• Pension matched up to 6%.
• Life insurance.
• 20 days annual leave (raising to 25 after 7 years of service) plus Bank Holidays.
• Employee Assistance Programme, MIND, Simply Health Care and Dental Plans.
• Discounts on attractions, mobile phones, cinema, leisure, retail and hospitality.
• 24/6 operational schedule with rota-based shifts; flexibility to enjoy meaningful time off.

Additional Information

• All roles are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and subject to Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks with Enhanced DBS (Adult & Child Barring) and satisfactory employment references.
• Minimum visa eligibility: at least two years remaining on your current visa and having lived in the UK for at least one year.
• Not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship under current UK Home Office rules.

EEO Statement

• We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation that supports the needs of all. We will make reasonable adjustments at interview through to employment and encourage applications from a diverse candidate pool.