Overview
Thames Magistrates Court, E3 4DJ — Permanent roles offering job stability & security. Role: Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS). This is a professional team that ensures safety and security within the justice system on a day-to-day basis.
Responsibilities
* Escort defendants to and from courtrooms, cells, and other areas within the court, including accompanying them to the toilet to ensure security and safety (handcuffs may be used).
* Monitor and supervise detainees in the docks during court sessions, ensuring they remain secure and do not pose a risk.
* Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information discussed during court proceedings with discretion.
* Listen to harrowing testimonies and provide professional support while managing your own wellbeing.
* Ensure detainees have access to food and drink and cater to dietary requirements.
* Monitor detainees’ mental and physical health and report concerns to the appropriate authorities.
* Maintain safety and security of the court environment, respond to incidents or emergencies, and conduct thorough searches to prevent contraband.
* Complete necessary paperwork and data entry, including logging detainee movements and incidents.
* Collaborate with court staff, law enforcement, and legal professionals to ensure smooth court operations.
What You Need to Do the Job
We welcome applicants with diverse backgrounds. What matters is your commitment to making a difference. You will complete a 5 1/2-week training course and learn from experienced colleagues. Ideally, you’ll have:
* A current valid driver’s license.
* Reasonable fitness and strong written and verbal communication skills to manage and control situations.
* A high level of responsibility, vigilance, and professionalism in challenging circumstances.
These roles suit those with an interest in criminology or psychology.
Requirements & Assessment
* 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) and satisfactory employment references.
* All staff must safeguard and promote welfare of children and vulnerable young adults; complete appropriate safeguarding training and follow policy.
* Right-to-work: This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship under current UK Home Office rules. Applicants must meet the minimum eligibility criteria:
o Have at least two years remaining on your current visa
o Have lived in the UK for at least one year
Assessment Process
Briefing call to assess eligibility -> Competency-based virtual interview -> short role-play and written exercise.
Benefits & Employment Details
* Base salary: £26,124 (35 hrs pw).
* Annual salary progression: year 2 £26,986; year 3 £27,803; year 4 £28,645.
* Pension (matched up to 6%), life insurance; 20 days annual leave (rising to 25 after 7 years) plus Bank Holidays.
* Health and wellbeing benefits (Employee Assistance Programme, MIND, Simply Health Care, Dental Plans, and more).
* Discounts and exclusive deals (Merlin Attractions, mobile, cinema, leisure, retail, hospitality).
* Supportive team culture, commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Work pattern: operational 24/6 with early and late shifts, 35 hrs pw. Rotas are provided 12 weeks in advance; flexibility and meaningful time off are available.
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