Prison Custody Officer (PCO) - HMP Northumberland
Sodexo Acklington, England, United Kingdom
Job Introduction: Please note that this role is not eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route in line with current UK immigration rules.
SECURE THE PRESENT, SHAPE THE FUTURE - Transform Lives as a Prison Custody Officer! If you're pursuing a career with meaning, we welcome you to apply for the position of Prison Custody Officer at HMP Northumberland.
As a Prison Custody Officer, you’ll play a crucial role in maintaining safety, security, and order within our prison facilities. This is more than just a job – it’s a meaningful opportunity to support rehabilitation, ensure justice, and contribute to the wider community.
Responsibilities
* Maintaining a secure and disciplined prison environment
* Supervising daily routines, prisoner movements, and scheduled activities
* Escorting prisoners securely within and outside the facility
* Responding calmly and professionally to challenging or high-pressure situations
* Supporting rehabilitation initiatives and encouraging positive behaviours
* Building respectful, professional relationships with prisoners to promote a safer, more supportive atmosphere
Requirements
There’s no such thing as a typical prison officer. Our team is made up of people from all walks of life – whether you’re a parent, former teacher, retail worker, member of the armed forces, or simply someone who thrives on helping others.
Whatever your background, if you’re a natural people person with strong communication skills, self-confidence, empathy, and resilience, we want to hear from you.
Behaviours
* Calm Under Pressure – Manage high-stress or unpredictable situations with a level head
* Empathy & Respect – Treat everyone with dignity, regardless of their circumstances
* Strong Ethics – Maintain fairness, professionalism, and integrity at all times
* Resilience & Adaptability – Stay composed and effective, even when the job gets tough
* Effective Communication – Listen actively and speak clearly and confidently
* Conflict Resolution – Use de-escalation techniques to manage tension and disputes
* Teamwork – Collaborate closely with colleagues for the safety and success of all
* Vigilance – Remain observant, alert, and responsive to potential risks
Training and Development
You don’t need prior experience to apply. You’ll receive a comprehensive 8-week training programme, delivered locally, to fully prepare you for the role.
* Classroom and practical learning
* Conflict resolution and communication training
* Shadowing experienced officers
* Continued development and support throughout your career
Eligibility Criteria
* Be at least 18 years of age at the time your employment begins
* Meet the required eyesight standards in both eyes, with or without corrective lenses
* Have an adequate level of hearing without the use of hearing aids, for safety reasons during training and operational duties
* Tattoos are permitted, including those that are visible, but must not be offensive, discriminatory, violent, or intimidating.
* Facial tattoos are generally not allowed, except where they are for cultural, religious, or medical reasons
What We Offer
* Starting salary £29,463.89 rising to £30,227.52 after one year's service
* Free meals (if applicable) and parking
* Access to our on-site gym and subsidised gym membership
* Opportunity to earn overtime (subject to availability)
* Comprehensive paid training and progression opportunities
* Life assurance
* BUPA healthcare
* Pension schemes and much more!
Sodexo is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all walks of life.
#J-18808-Ljbffr