Overview
Join to apply for the Prisoner Custody Officer role at Serco.
Permanent roles offering job stability and security. Working as a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS) is a role within the justice system focused on safety, security and detainee welfare. You will operate on a 24/6 schedule with a variety of early and late shifts across a 35-hour week, with 12-week advance rotas to support time off.
Responsibilities
* Escort defendants to and from courtrooms, cells, and other court areas, including accompaniment to the toilet as required, with appropriate security measures.
* Monitor and supervise detainees in the docks during court sessions to maintain safety and security.
* Handle sensitive information with discretion, maintain confidentiality, and support detainees while managing emotional wellbeing.
* Ensure detainees have access to food and drink, accommodating dietary requirements as needed.
* Monitor detainee mental and physical health and report concerns to the appropriate authorities.
* Maintain safety and security of the court environment; conduct searches to prevent contraband from entering secure areas.
* Complete paperwork and data entry accurately, including logging movements and incidents.
* Collaborate with court staff, law enforcement, and legal professionals to ensure smooth court operations.
What you need to do the job
Current PCOs come from diverse backgrounds. What you have done before matters less than your commitment to making a difference. You will learn during a 5.5-week training course and through experienced colleagues. Ideally you’ll have a valid driver’s license, be reasonably fit, and have good written and verbal communication skills to manage and control situations with professionalism and care. This role requires responsibility, vigilance, and the ability to handle challenging situations. Interest in criminology or psychology is a plus.
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. Offers are subject to Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks with Enhanced DBS (Adult & Child Barring) and satisfactory employment references. All staff must safeguard and promote welfare of children and vulnerable adults and complete required training in line with safeguarding policies.
This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship under current UK Home Office rules. Applicants must meet minimum eligibility criteria if already in the UK on some other visa: at least two years remaining on current visa and at least one year of UK居 residency for vetting. For general right-to-work guidance, visit the UK Home Office website.
Apply promptly as closing dates may change with high application volumes.
About Serco
Serco is a global employer delivering essential public services in areas including defence, transport, justice, immigration, healthcare, and citizen services. We value diversity and inclusion and offer employee networks to support belonging. We are Disability Confident Leader employers and hold the Gold Inclusive Employer Standard. Reasonable adjustments are available at interview and throughout employment.
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