Prisoner Custody Officer

Serco; Uxbridge; On-site; GBP 27,220 - 28,179; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

20 days holidays, rising to 25 after 7 years

Up to 6% contributory pension scheme

Employee Assistance Programme

Discounts across major retailers and experiences

Job summary

Serco is looking for a Prisoner Custody Officer in Uxbridge to ensure detainee safety and security during court proceedings. Responsibilities include escorting detainees, managing sensitive situations, and maintaining confidentiality.

The role requires strong communication skills, fitness for physical tasks, and abilities to stay calm under pressure. Employee benefits include generous holidays, a pension scheme, comprehensive training, and health support services.

Qualifications

• Full UK driving licence (B/B1) is desirable.
• Reasonable fitness for the physical demands of the role.

Responsibilities

• Delivering safe escorting and custody services.
• Supervising detainees during court hearings.
• Conducting searches to maintain a secure environment.

Skills

Strong communication skills (written and verbal)

Ability to stay calm and make decisions under pressure

Confidence managing behaviour and de-escalating conflict

Teamwork

Professionalism and integrity

Job description

Location: Uxbridge Magistrates Court, UB8 1PQ

Role

Join us as a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS) where you’ll play a key role in helping keep the justice system safe and secure. In addition to job security and stability we offer:

• Salary: £27,220 (35hrs pw), rising to £28,179 from 1st September 2026
• Further clear annual progression (Year 2: £28,865; Year 3: £29,508; Year 4: £30,172)

We operate 24/6 across early and late shifts, so flexibility is essential. Finishing times can be unpredictable, and you may need to work beyond your contracted hours to meet operational demands. Shifts are set on a rota provided 12 weeks in advance, giving you visibility to plan ahead. Part‑time working may be considered, but this must be across full working days, as reduced daily hours are not available.

Keep people safe. Keep justice moving.

We operate in a high‑security environment.

Duties

As a PCO, you’ll work as part of a team to deliver safe and secure escorting and custody services, ensuring detainee welfare at all times during court proceedings. You’ll be responsible for detainees throughout court proceedings until their return to custody or release.

• Escorting detainees within the court, including to courtrooms, cells, and facilities
• Supervising detainees during hearings to maintain safety and security
• Managing sensitive situations and maintaining strict confidentiality
• Supporting detainee welfare, including access to food, drink, and wellbeing checks
• Monitoring behaviour and responding to incidents or risks
• Conducting searches to maintain a secure environment
• Completing accurate records and documentation
• Working closely with court staff and partners to ensure smooth operations

Requirements

• Full UK driving licence (B/B1) (desirable)
• Reasonable fitness for the physical demands of the role
• Strong communication skills (written and verbal)
• Ability to stay calm and make decisions under pressure
• Confidence managing behaviour and de‑escalating conflict
• Teamwork and the ability to follow processes accurately
• Professionalism, integrity, and respect for confidentiality

Benefits

• Holidays: 20 days (rising to 25 after 7 years’ service) plus bank holidays (pro‑rate)
• Pension: Up to 6% contributory pension scheme (matched by Serco)
• Training and development: Structured induction (5½ weeks), ongoing learning, access to internal courses and qualifications, mentoring, and a strong focus on internal progression
• Health and wellbeing: Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), support from mental health charity MIND, Simply Health cash and dental plans, wellbeing resources, discount on membership at Serco‑run gyms
• Discounts: Savings across major retailers and experiences, including Merlin attractions, cinema, leisure, retail, hospitality, mobile plans, and more

We are an equal‑opportunity employer and are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation.