Prisoner Custody Officer

Serco Limited; Essex; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000

Job description

Working as a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS) is more than just a job; it's the chance to be a part of something great, to join a work family where you are valued, and you can make a difference every day. In addition to a rewarding career, we also offer:

• Base Salary of £25,126 (35hrs pw).
• Continuous training & development opportunities with annual salary increments (year 2 - £25,736 / year 3 - £26,320 / year 4 - £26,925).
• Pension (matched up to 6%), life insurance; 20 days annual leave (rising to 25 after 7 years' service) plus Bank Holidays.
• Benefits to support the health and wellbeing of you and your family such as 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, and more.
• A supportive team & culture focused on making a positive difference in a company passionate about diversity and inclusion.

We are operational 24/6, covering various early and late shifts, 35hrs pw. Flexibility is key due to the nature of the role, with different working arrangements & additional hours. There will be days when your finishing time could be unpredictable; however, we operate a rota basis (provided 12 weeks in advance) that allows you the flexibility to enjoy meaningful time off.

We are open to considering part-time positions for day shifts only. However, full-time attendance is required during the initial training period of 5 1/2 weeks.

About the Role:

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. Key duties include:

• Escorting defendants to and from courtrooms, cells, and other areas within the court, including accompanying them to the toilet to ensure security and safety.
• Monitoring and supervising detainees during court sessions, ensuring they remain secure.
• Maintaining discretion and confidentiality regarding sensitive information discussed during court proceedings.
• Ensuring that detainees have access to food and drink throughout the day, catering to any dietary requirements.
• Monitoring the mental and physical health of detainees, reporting any concerns to the appropriate authorities.
• Ensuring the safety and security of the court environment, including responding to incidents or emergencies.
• Completing necessary paperwork and data entry accurately.
• Working closely with other court staff, law enforcement, and legal professionals.

What You Need to Do the Job:

Our current PCOs come to us with different work & life experiences. What matters is your commitment to making a difference - the rest will be learned during your training course and through our experienced colleagues.

Ideally, you'll have a current valid driver's license, be reasonably fit, and possess 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.

Our Assessment Process:

Online Assessment (sent via email upon application) - Briefing call to assess eligibility - Competency-based virtual interview - short role-play and written exercise.

Additional Information:

All roles are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. All offers of employment are subject to Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks with Enhanced DBS (Adult & Child Barring) and satisfactory employment references.

About Serco:
At Serco, we are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organization that supports the needs of all. We encourage applications from a diverse candidate pool and are open to discussions around flexibility and flexible working.

Apply:
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