Overview
Serco Milton Keynes, United Kingdom. Permanent role as a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS). This role supports the justice system by providing safe and secure escorting and custody services to detainees, with emphasis on safety, security, and welfare.
What you’ll get
* Base Salary of £23,402 (35hrs pw)
* Annual 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
* Health and wellbeing benefits (Employee Assistance Programme, MIND, Simply Health Care, Dental Plans and more)
* Discounts on Merlin Attractions, mobile, cinema, leisure, retail and hospitality
* A supportive team and culture committed to diversity and inclusion
We operate 24/6 and include early and late shifts. The rota (provided 12 weeks in advance) offers flexibility and meaningful time off. Some finishing times may be unpredictable due to the role’s nature.
Role responsibilities
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. You’ll manage detainees during court proceedings until they return to custody or are released.
* Escort defendants to and from courtrooms, cells, and other areas; may involve handcuffs to the detainee
* Monitor detainees in the docks during court sessions to ensure security and safety
* Maintain discretion and confidentiality regarding sensitive information discussed in court
* Provide support while listening to distressing testimonies and evidence, maintaining professionalism and personal wellbeing
* Ensure detainees have access to food and drink, catering to dietary requirements
* Monitor detainees’ mental and physical health; report concerns to the appropriate authorities
* Maintain safety and security of the court environment; conduct thorough searches to prevent contraband
* Complete paperwork and data entry, logging detainee movements and incidents
* Collaborate with court staff, law enforcement, and legal professionals to ensure smooth operations
What you need to do the job
We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds. You’ll learn during a 5.5-week training course and via 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. This role requires responsibility, vigilance, and the ability to handle challenging situations. Interest in criminology or psychology is beneficial.
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 employment references. All staff must safeguard and promote 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. Depending on visa status, eligibility criteria may include: (a) at least two years remaining on current visa; (b) UK residence of at least one year for vetting purposes.
For general right-to-work guidance, visit the UK Home Office website.
To discuss, contact j&icareersUK@serco.com. We support fair access to employment for those with unspent criminal convictions through the ‘Ban the Box’ pledge.
About Serco: a global services company delivering public services in defence, transport, justice, immigration, healthcare and citizen services. We are committed to diversity and inclusion and offer flexible working where possible.
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