Overview
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. Being prepared to listen to harrowing and distressing testimonies and evidence. It is crucial to maintain professionalism and provide support to detainees while managing your own emotional wellbeing. Ensuring that 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 any incidents or emergencies that may arise. 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.
Responsibilities
* Escort defendants to and from courtrooms, cells, and other areas within the court, including accompanying them where required for security and safety.
* Monitor and supervise detainees in the docks during court sessions to maintain security and manage risk.
* Maintain discretion and confidentiality with sensitive information discussed during court proceedings.
* Listen to and respond to harrowing and distressing testimonies and evidence, maintaining professionalism and supporting detainees while managing personal wellbeing.
* Ensure detainees have access to food and drink, accommodating dietary requirements or restrictions.
* 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 accurately, including logging detainee movements, incidents, and other relevant information.
* Collaborate 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 to us with different work and life experiences; what you’ve done before doesn’t matter, 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’ll 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. Our roles suit those with an interest in criminology or psychology.
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 is responsible for ensuring that they understand and work within the safeguarding policies of the organisation. This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship under current UK Home Office rules, as it does not meet the required salary or skill level criteria. While we encourage applications to other roles, candidates who already have a valid right to work in the UK through other immigration routes or permissions must meet the minimum eligibility criteria:
- Have at least two years remaining on your current visa.
- Have lived in the UK for at least one year, as vetting requires a counter-signatory from a recognised professional who has known you for that duration.
For general right-to-work guidance, please visit the UK Home Office website.
Salary and Benefits
* Base Salary of £23,402.00 (35 hrs per week).
* Annual salary progression: £23,984 (year 2), £24,436 (year 3), £24,890 (year 4).
* Pension contributions matched up to 6%, life insurance; 20 days annual leave (rising to 25 after 7 years’ service) plus Bank Holidays.
* Employee health and wellbeing benefits such as Employee Assistance Programme, MIND, Simply Health Care, and Dental Plans.
* Discounts and exclusive deals across various sectors (e.g., Merlin Attractions, mobile phone discounts, cinema, leisure, retail, and hospitality).
* A supportive team and culture with a focus on diversity and inclusion.
Base salary and benefits are described as part of the job posting; all other information is subject to change.
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