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Prisoner Custody Officer

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Serco

Yesterday

  • Job
    Full-time
    Entry Level
  • Government & Politics
    People, HR & Administration
  • Chelmsford

AI generated summary

  • You need a full UK driving licence (desirable), fitness for role demands, strong communication skills, calm decision-making under pressure, conflict management, teamwork, and professionalism.
  • You will escort and supervise detainees during court, ensure safety, manage sensitive situations, support welfare, conduct searches, and maintain accurate records while collaborating with court staff.

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

Responsibilities

  • 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. Key duties include:
  • 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

FAQs

What is the salary for the Prisoner Custody Officer position?

The starting salary is £27,220, rising to £28,179 from 1st September 2026, with further clear annual progression in subsequent years.

What are the working hours for this role?

The role operates 24/6 across early and late shifts, and flexibility is essential due to unpredictable finishing times.

Is part-time work available for this position?

Part-time working may be considered, but it must be across full working days as reduced daily hours are not available.

What are the key responsibilities of a Prisoner Custody Officer?

Responsibilities include escorting detainees, supervising during hearings, supporting detainee welfare, conducting searches, and completing accurate records and documentation.

What are the training requirements for this position?

You will receive full training through a 5½-week paid training course, along with ongoing support from experienced colleagues.

What qualifications are needed to apply for this role?

A full UK driving licence (B/B1) is desirable, along with reasonable fitness, strong communication skills, and the ability to stay calm under pressure.

What benefits does Serco offer to employees?

Benefits include 20 days of holiday (rising to 25 after 7 years), a contributory pension scheme, training and development opportunities, health and wellbeing support, and discounts across various retailers and experiences.

What is the recruitment process for this role?

The recruitment process involves an online application, virtual assessment (competency-based interview and exercises), eligibility checks, and verification of right to work documentation.

Are there any eligibility checks before being offered the job?

Yes, job offers are subject to Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks, Enhanced DBS clearance, satisfactory references, and occupational health checks.

Is this role eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship?

No, this role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship under current UK Home Office regulations.

How does Serco support diversity and inclusion in the workplace?

Serco is committed to building a diverse and inclusive organization, supported by Global Employee Networks focused on various aspects of diversity, and encourages applications from diverse candidate pools.

What support is available for mental health and wellbeing?

Employees have access to an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), support from the mental health charity MIND, and various wellbeing resources.

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Serco

Technology
Industry
10,001+
Employees

Mission & Purpose

Serco is one of the world’s largest providers of public services to Governments, employing over 50,000 people in over 20 countries. The services we provide are often of critical importance to the communities and nations we serve. Providing public services is one of the most satisfying and rewarding careers you can have. You have an ability to make a real positive difference to people’s lives and to the safety and security of your community and country. Serco operates in five sectors of public-service provision: Health, Transport, Justice & Immigration, Defence and Citizens Services. Sometimes we are supporting people at troubled times in their lives, be they unemployed, refugees fleeing persecution, or in prison. In other parts of our business we are running some of the most advanced train services in the world, delivering essential support to armed forces, keeping hospitals safe and running 24x7, and providing environmental services. Serco is a business where people and values matter. We have a strong public service ethos, and we employ people who want to make a positive difference to other people’s lives. We operate in North America, UK, Europe, Middle East, Hong Kong, Australia and New Zealand, and we encourage people to develop their careers moving both between different businesses and countries. And as a business which delivers “front-line” public services, employing tens of thousands of people, we are constantly developing and promoting people; our need for skilled leaders is insatiable, and few companies can offer as many opportunities for people to grow their careers. We are looking for people to join Serco who share our desire to make a positive difference, the confidence to work as part of a team, the insight to spot the opportunity to do things better, and, importantly, the ability to take the initiative and put great ideas into practice wherever they are needed.

Culture & Values

  • Trust

  • Care

  • Innovation

  • Pride