Detention Officer’s play a key role in the management and processing of individuals who have been arrested and are in police custody. This integral role ensures the smooth operation of our police custody facilities while upholding safety, security, and detainee rights.
Salary – £27,204–£29,859. Shift allowance and weekend working enhancement also provided. Shift percentage: 20%. Hours per week: 37. Closing date: 03/06/2026, 23:55.
The role
We are recruiting for roles based at Bridgwater, Keynsham and Patchway Police Centres.
Responsibilities
* Book and process detainees by recording personal details, photographing, fingerprinting, taking DNA samples and ensuring documentation is completed.
* Supervise and monitor individuals in custody, ensuring their safety and welfare in person and via CCTV; maintain awareness of medical and mental health conditions that may affect them and support they may need during their stay.
* Provide for the well‑being of detainees by distributing bedding, preparing and serving meals and beverages as needed, and overseeing access to wash and exercise facilities.
* Handle administrative duties such as creating and managing paper records, making and answering phone calls, and ensuring accurate detention logs are made for each detainee throughout their stay in custody.
* Maintain all custody facilities: complete regular checks, log faults, and clean custody areas where appropriate.
What we are looking for
No previous experience is necessary as full training will be provided; however, experience working within a similar environment and having responsibility for the welfare and security of individuals would be advantageous, e.g., Security Officer, Prison Officer.
As custody centres can encounter confrontational, aggressive and sometimes violent behaviour, you must be able to communicate effectively to de‑escalate situations. Full Public and Personal Safety Training (PPST) will be provided as part of the four‑week training course.
Essential skills required
* Strong communication skills, including clear verbal communication, active listening and conflict de‑escalation.
* Ability to deal with agitated or non‑compliant individuals, preventing confrontations without using force.
* Basic IT skills to effectively manage administrative tasks, including data entry, email communication and standard office software (e.g., Microsoft Word & Excel).
* A full driving licence is essential, including the ability to drive around the force area when required.
Additional Information
Custody centres operate 24/7, 365 days a year. The roles involve working a six on, four off shift pattern, which includes early, late, night shifts, weekends and bank holidays.
During the interview process you will be asked for a preference as to which of the three custody centres you would like to be based. Where possible we will try to accommodate this preference; however, this cannot always be guaranteed due to the location of the vacancy. Successful applicants will also be expected to work at any of the other custody centres when requested.
A uniform is required for this role and will be provided.
To be eligible to apply for this role you must have a 3 year “checkable history” in the UK – ideally that means you have been resident in the UK for the last 3 years.
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