Overview
Join to apply for the Prisoner Custody Officer role at Southern Waters Legal.
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Role
Working as a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS) is more than just a role—it's an opportunity to be part of a professional team that plays a vital role in the justice system, ensuring safety and security every day.
Responsibilities
* Escorting defendants to and from courtrooms, cells, and other areas within the court, including accompanying them to the toilet to ensure security and safety. This may involve being handcuffed to the detainee.
* Monitoring and supervising detainees while they are in the docks during court sessions, ensuring they remain secure and do not pose a risk to themselves or others.
* Being privy to sensitive and confidential information discussed during court proceedings, including testimonies, legal arguments, etc. Maintaining discretion and confidentiality is paramount. Be prepared to listen to harrowing and distressing testimonies and evidence, while maintaining professionalism and managing your own emotional wellbeing.
* Ensuring detainees have access to food and drink throughout the day, catering to any dietary requirements or restrictions.
* Monitoring the mental and physical health of detainees, providing support and reporting any concerns to the appropriate authorities.
* Ensuring the safety and security of the court environment, including responding to incidents or emergencies and conducting thorough searches of property and individuals to prevent contraband from entering secure areas.
* Completing necessary paperwork and data entry accurately, including logging detainee movements, incidents, and any other relevant information.
* Working closely with other court staff, law enforcement, and legal professionals to ensure smooth and secure court operations.
What you need to do the job
Our current PCOs come from diverse backgrounds; what matters is your commitment to making a difference to the lives of others. You will learn during a 5 1/2-week training course and through our experienced colleagues. Ideally, you will have a current valid driver’s license, be reasonably fit, and have good written and verbal communication skills to manage and control all situations. This role requires a high level of responsibility, vigilance, and the ability to handle challenging situations with professionalism and care. You will be an integral part of the judicial process, ensuring that justice is administered safely and securely. The role may suit those with an interest in criminology or psychology.
Our 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, and all offers of employment are subject to Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks with Enhanced DBS (Adult & Child Barring) and satisfactory employment references. All staff have a responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and vulnerable young adults; the post holder must undertake the appropriate level of training and work within safeguarding policies.
This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship under current UK Home Office rules. Minimum eligibility criteria include: have at least two years remaining on your current visa and have lived in the UK for at least one year for vetting purposes.
For general right-to-work guidance, please visit the UK Home Office website.
About Serco
At Serco, the work we do is important and every employee has a role to play. We deliver essential public services in areas including 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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