Prison Custody Officer (Female Applicants Encouraged) – HMP Bronzefield
Please note: 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
As a Prison Custody Officer at HMP Bronzefield, you will play a vital role in creating a safe, supportive, and structured environment for women in custody.This is more than just a job – it’s a meaningful opportunity to support rehabilitation, build positive relationships, and help individuals move towards a better future.Working in the largest women’s prison in Europe, you will be part of a team that makes a real difference every day.
A Unique Women’s EnvironmentAs the largest women’s prison in Europe, HMP Bronzefield offers a unique and rewarding working environment. We welcome applications from both women and men for this position. However, as this role is based within a female prison and our current workforce is approximately 60/40, we are actively encouraging women to apply to help us continue building a balanced and representative team.This approach is in line with the Equality Act 2010, which allows positive action where there is under-representation within a particular environment. All appointments are made on merit, and we remain committed to fair, open, and inclusive recruitment practices.
What You’ll Do
Your responsibilities will include:
Creating a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for those in custody
Supporting daily routines, activities, and wellbeing
Escorting individuals securely within and outside the facility
Responding calmly and professionally to challenging or high-pressure situations
Encouraging positive behaviour and supporting rehabilitation
Building constructive, professional relationships based on trust, fairness, and consistency
Acting as a positive role model and providing encouragement where neededWho We’re Looking For
There’s no such thing as a typical Prison Custody Officer.Our team includes people from all walks of life – whether you’re a parent, carer, former teacher, retail worker, or simply someone who enjoys working with people and making a difference.Many of our officers are women who bring strong communication skills, empathy, and resilience to the role – qualities that are essential in a women’s prison environment. You don’t need previous experience in security or the prison service. Skills from roles such as care, education, customer service, or parenting are highly transferable .If you’re someone who can remain calm, treat others with respect, and build positive relationships, we would encourage you to apply – even if you’re not sure you meet every requirement.
As part of the recruitment process, you will be invited to attend an assessment centre made up of three stages:
Written English and maths assessments
Scenario-based exercises
Interview
We strongly encourage candidates to prepare in advance.
Assessment Centre Date: 23rd & 24th June,
Please only apply if you are available to attend
Teamwork Matters
Teamwork is at the heart of everything we do.You’ll work closely with colleagues to maintain a safe and supportive environment for staff, visitors, and those in custody. A strong sense of teamwork, trust, and communication is essential to success in this role.
The Behaviours That Make a Great Officer
To thrive in this role, you’ll demonstrate:
Calm Under Pressure – Staying composed in challenging situations
Empathy & Respect – Treating everyone with dignity
Strong Ethics – Acting with fairness and integrity
Resilience & Adaptability – Remaining effective in a dynamic environment
Effective Communication – Listening and communicating clearly
Conflict Resolution – Using de-escalation techniques
Teamwork – Supporting colleagues and working collaboratively
Vigilance – Staying alert and awareTraining and Development
No previous experience is required. You’ll receive a comprehensive 8-week training programme, including:
Classroom and practical learning
Communication and conflict resolution training
Shadowing experienced officers
Ongoing development and career progression opportunitiesWhy Join Us at HMP Bronzefield?
Many people choose this role because it offers:
A meaningful career where you can make a real difference
A supportive and inclusive team environment
Opportunities to build confidence and develop new skills
Clear career progression pathways
Job stability and long-term developmentEligibility Criteria
To apply, you must:
Be at least 18 years old at the start of employment
Meet required eyesight standards (with or without corrective lenses)
Have adequate hearing (without hearing aids for operational safety reasons)
Tattoos must not be offensive, discriminatory, or intimidating
Facial tattoos are generally not permitted unless for cultural, religious, or medical reasonsWhat We Offer
Starting salary 35,574.59 + 3729.24 London Weighting
Annual increases over the first 5 years
Free meals and parking
Access to on-site gym and subsidised membership
Overtime opportunities (subject to availability)
Comprehensive training and career development
Life assurance
BUPA healthcare
Pension scheme and additional benefitsWe are committed to supporting your wellbeing both in and outside of work.
Application Process
To move forward with your application, a pre-screening process will be completed shortly after submission. Please check your inbox (and spam folder).You will then be invited to attend an assessment centre. All offers are subject to full security clearance checks.
Important InformationThis role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship.
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