Prisoner Custody Officer

About the Role

Based at Southend Combined Court (SS2 6EG), the Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) position offers an opportunity to contribute significantly towards maintaining safety and security within the justice system. This full-time role involves working 24 hours, six days a week, including early and late shifts on a rota schedule provided 12 weeks in advance. Flexibility is crucial, as shift end times can vary and occasionally extend beyond scheduled hours. Part-time options may be available but only for full working days.

Salary starts at 28179 for a 35-hour workweek, with structured yearly increments culminating at 30172 by the fourth year of service.

Key Responsibilities

• Escort detainees safely within court premises, including to various courtrooms, holding cells, and facilities.
• Ensure supervision of detainees throughout court proceedings, maintaining security and safety.
• Handle sensitive situations discreetly, upholding strict confidentiality protocols.
• Support detainee welfare by facilitating access to food, beverages, and welfare checks.
• Observe and monitor detainee behaviour, responding professionally to incidents or potential risks.
• Carry out thorough searches to maintain a secure environment.
• Maintain detailed and accurate records and documentation related to detainee custody.
• Collaborate effectively with court personnel and other partners to ensure smooth operational flow.

Required Qualifications and Skills

• Commitment to making a positive impact in the role; backgrounds from diverse fields are welcome.
• Completion of a comprehensive 5.5-week paid training course and ongoing mentoring support.
• Possession of a full UK driving license (category B/B1) is desirable but not mandatory.
• Reasonable level of physical fitness to meet the role's demands.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to remain composed and make sound decisions during high-pressure situations.
• Confidence in managing challenging behaviour and applying conflict de-escalation techniques.
• Strong team collaboration skills and adherence to established procedures.
• Professional conduct, integrity, and strict respect for confidentiality.

Benefits and Perks

• Annual leave starting at 20 days, increasing to 25 days after seven years of service, plus pro-rated bank holidays.
• Up to 6% contributory pension plan matched by the employer.
• Structured induction training, continuous professional development opportunities, and access to internal courses with mentoring support.
• Comprehensive health and wellbeing offerings including Employee Assistance Programs, mental health support through charities, cash and dental plans, wellbeing resources, and discounts at company fitness facilities.
• Exclusive discounts across various retailers, leisure, cinema, hospitality, and more.

Additional Information and Terms

The hiring process includes an online application with eligibility and assessment components, a virtual competency interview with role play and written tasks, verification of right to work and vetting documents, followed by job offer and training start date confirmation.

Employment is conditional on successful Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks, DBS clearance, satisfactory employment references, and occupational health evaluation. This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and subject to random drug and alcohol testing.

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK; visa sponsorship is not available under current regulations. Visa holders must have a minimum two-year validity and at least one year of UK residency.

All employees are responsible for safeguarding children and vulnerable adults in accordance with company policies and mandatory training.

About the Employer

Serco is a global organization employing over 50,000 people delivering essential public services across multiple sectors including Defence, Transport, Justice, and Healthcare. The company values Trust, Care, Innovation, and Pride to create meaningful daily impact.

Inclusion and Diversity Commitment

Serco is recognized as a Disability Confident Leader and a Gold Inclusive Employer Standard holder, committed to equal opportunity. Flexible working and reasonable adjustments are supported during recruitment and employment.

Guaranteed Interview Scheme

Applicants with disabilities and veterans meeting the minimum criteria receive guaranteed interview opportunities. Support is available for application assistance.