Prisoner Custody Officer

Serco; Hove; On-site; GBP 23,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job description

Permanent roles offering job stability & security

Working as a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS) is more than just a role—it’s an opportunity to be part of a professional team that plays a vital role in the justice system, ensuring safety and security every day. We also offer:

• Base Salary of £23,402 (35hrs pw).
• Continuous training & development opportunities, with annual base salary increments (year 2 - £23,984 / year 3 - £24,436 / year 4 - £24,890).
• Pension (matched up to 6%), life insurance; 20 days annual leave (rising to 25 after 7 years’ service) plus Bank Holidays.
• A range of benefits to support health and wellbeing such as Employee Assistance Programme, MIND, Simply Health Care and Dental Plans.
• Access to discounts and exclusive deals like Merlin Attractions, Mobile Phone discounts, Cinema discounts, and more.
• A supportive team & culture focused on 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 a range of different working arrangements & additional hours. A rota basis (provided 12 weeks in advance) allows for meaningful time off.

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 their physical and mental wellbeing. Key duties include:

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

What you need to do the job!

Our current PCOs come with different work & life experiences. Commitment to making a difference is key, with training provided during a 5 1/2-week course. Ideally, you’ll have a current valid driver's license, be reasonably fit, and possess good written and verbal communication skills. This role requires responsibility, vigilance, and professionalism in challenging situations.

Additional Information:

All roles are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, and offers of employment are subject to Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks and satisfactory employment references.

This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Candidates must meet the minimum eligibility criteria:

• Have at least two years remaining on your current visa.
• Have lived in the UK for at least one year.

About Serco
At Serco, the work we do is important, and everyone has a role to play. We are a team of 50,000 people delivering essential public services globally. We are committed to improving public services for the benefit of everyone.

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At Serco, we support fair access to employment for those with unspent criminal convictions through the ‘Ban the Box’ pledge. For help with your application, please contact j&[e-mail].