Overview
Hendon Magistrates Court, NW9 7BY — Permanent roles offering job stability & security.
Role
Working as a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS) is a role within the justice system focused on safety and security. You will be part of a professional team and contribute to detainee management and court operations.
Responsibilities
* Escort defendants to and from courtrooms, cells, and other court areas, including accompanying detainees to the toilet when security and safety require it.
* Monitor and supervise detainees in the docks during court sessions, ensuring security and risk mitigation.
* Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information discussed during court proceedings.
* Provide support to detainees while maintaining professionalism and managing emotional wellbeing in response to distressing testimony or evidence.
* Ensure detainees have access to food and drink and accommodate dietary requirements.
* Monitor detainees’ mental and physical health and report concerns to the appropriate authorities.
* Maintain safety and security of the court environment 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 and secure court operations.
What you need to do the job
We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds. You will learn during a 5.5-week training course and through experienced colleagues. Ideally, you’ll have:
* A current valid driver’s license and good written and verbal communication skills.
* A high level of responsibility, vigilance, and the ability to handle challenging situations with professionalism and care.
* An interest in criminology or psychology is beneficial.
Working pattern and hours
We are operational 24/6 with various early and late shifts, 35 hours per week. Flexibility is essential due to the nature of the role, with a rota provided 12 weeks in advance.
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 offers are subject to Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks with Enhanced DBS (Adult & Child Barring) and satisfactory references.
* Staff have a responsibility to safeguard and promote welfare of children and vulnerable young adults; training and safeguarding policies must be followed.
* This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship under current UK Home Office rules. Candidates must meet minimum eligibility criteria if applying from outside the UK: at least two years remaining on current visa and UK residence for at least one year for vetting purposes.
General right-to-work guidance is available on the UK Home Office website.
About Serco
Serco is a global public services organisation. We emphasise diversity and inclusion and support flexible working where possible. We provide employee networks and are Disability Confident Leader employers.
How to apply
Please click the apply button to submit your application. We occasionally adjust closing dates based on volume; apply promptly. We are committed to fair access to employment and will make reasonable adjustments at interview and during employment.
For help with your application, contact j&icareersUK@serco.com. We support candidates with unspent convictions through the Ban the Box pledge where applicable.
Other job details
* Seniority level: Entry level
* Employment type: Full-time
* Job function: Other, Information Technology, and Management
* Industries: IT Services and IT Consulting
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