Role
Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS) at Wimbledon Magistrates Court, SW19 7JP. Permanent roles offering job stability & security. 35 hours per week.
As a PCO you’ll work as part of a professional team that provides safe and secure escorting and custody services to detainees, focusing on maintaining their physical and mental wellbeing. You will be responsible for detainee management during court proceedings and for coordinating with court staff to ensure secure operations.
What you get
* Base Salary of £26,026 (35hrs pw).
* Continuous training & development opportunities; annual salary increments are available (example progression: year 2 - £26,658; year 3 - £27,260; year 4 - £27,882).
* Pension (matched up to 6%), Life insurance; 20 days annual leave (rising to 25 after 7 years’ service) plus Bank Holidays.
* Health & wellbeing benefits (Employee Assistance Programme, MIND, Simply Health Care and Dental Plans, and more).
* Discounts and exclusive deals (Merlin Attractions, Mobile Phone, Cinema, Leisure, Retail and Hospitality).
* A supportive team & culture committed to diversity and inclusion.
About the role
Operational details: we are operational 24/6 with various early and late shifts; 35hrs pw. A rota is provided 12 weeks in advance to enable flexibility and meaningful time off. You’ll focus on detainee escort, custody, and safety within the court environment.
Key duties
* Escort defendants to and from courtrooms, cells, and other areas within the court; accompany them as required for security and safety.
* Monitor and supervise detainees in the docks during court sessions to ensure security and safety.
* Maintain discretion and confidentiality with sensitive information discussed during court proceedings.
* Listen to and support detainees during harrowing testimonies while maintaining professionalism and personal wellbeing.
* Provide detainees with access to food and drink and accommodate dietary requirements.
* Monitor detainees’ mental and physical health and report concerns to the appropriate authorities.
* Ensure safety and security of the court environment; conduct searches to prevent contraband.
* Complete necessary paperwork and data entry (e.g., detainee movements, incidents, relevant information).
* Collaborate with court staff, law enforcement, and legal professionals to ensure smooth operations.
What you need to do the job
We value commitment to making a difference and provide learning through a 5 1/2-week training course and support from experienced colleagues. Ideally you’ll have a current valid driver’s license, be reasonably fit, and have good written and verbal communication skills to manage situations with professionalism and care.
Assessment process
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. Offers are subject to Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks with Enhanced DBS (Adult & Child Barring) and satisfactory references. All staff must safeguard and promote the welfare of children and vulnerable young adults and follow safeguarding policies.
This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship under current UK Home Office rules. Minimum eligibility criteria include: two years remaining on your current visa and at least one year of residence in the UK for vetting. General right-to-work guidance is available on the UK Home Office website.
About Serco
Serco is a world-leading public services company with a diverse portfolio across defence, transport, justice, immigration, healthcare and citizen services. We are committed to diversity, inclusion and belonging and offer flexible working where possible.
Apply
Please click on the apply button to complete your application. We welcome applications from a diverse candidate pool and can provide reasonable adjustments at interview and employment. We are Disability Confident Leader employers and hold the Gold Inclusive Employer Standard. For help with your application please contact j&icareersUK@serco.com.
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