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- Tasks: Support daily prison operations, including security checks, managing deliveries, and monitoring CCTV.
- Company: Join His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service, making a real difference in public safety.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, pension scheme, retail discounts, and training opportunities.
- Why this job: Make an impact while gaining valuable experience in a unique and supportive environment.
- Qualifications: No qualifications needed; just be a good communicator and team player.
- Other info: Flexible shifts available, with potential career progression into other prison roles.
The predicted salary is between 23400 - 31200 £ per year.
As an Operational Support Grade, you will play a key part in supporting the day-to-day running of a busy prison. You will be part of a supportive team doing all sorts of things – from security and searches at the gate, to managing deliveries, supervising visitors, and monitoring phone calls and CCTV. It’s a varied and active job involving tasks which combine some desk duties with more physical tasks such as lifting, carrying and walking to escort vehicles across the prison grounds.
You don’t need any qualifications to do this job, but if you are a good communicator and can keep calm under pressure, this fast-paced role could be the start of a successful career for you. Helping to keep a prison running smoothly and safely you will have good judgement and common sense, and, above all, be a great team player. As an OSG, you will work a variety of shifts, including weekend and night shifts, to keep things running.
In this unique career, you’ll have the opportunity to protect the public and make an impact on lives by supporting the important work happening daily in our prisons. Unlike our prison officers, your contact with prisoners is limited, although depending on the particular prison you may interact with prisoners occasionally. The OSG role will give you significant knowledge and experience of how a prison operates. It can provide opportunities to move into other prison jobs, including opportunities to apply for the OSG to Prison Officer conversion scheme.
What you can expect from us:
- You’ll be given great training and opportunities for progression and development.
- In addition to your base pay, you will receive:
- Annual leave is 25 days on appointment and will increase to 30 days after 10 years’ service (calculated on a pro-rata basis).
- 9 days bank, public and privilege holidays.
- Access to a paid Level 2 apprenticeship in customer service.
- Access to the generous Civil Service pension scheme.
- Season ticket loans, retail discounts, an Employee Assistance Programme and a Cycle to Work scheme.
If this sounds like you, apply now.
Contact Detail:
HM Prison and Probation Service Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Prison Support Role
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the daily operations of a prison. Understanding the environment and the various roles within it can help you demonstrate your knowledge during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in the position.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your communication skills in conversations with current or former prison staff. Engaging with them can provide insights into the role and allow you to showcase your ability to connect with others, which is crucial for this job.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for situational questions by thinking about how you would handle various scenarios that may arise in a prison setting. This will help you articulate your problem-solving skills and calmness under pressure during the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the field through social media platforms like LinkedIn. Building connections can lead to valuable advice and potentially even referrals, increasing your chances of landing the job.
We think you need these skills to ace Prison Support Role
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Prison Support Role. Highlight key skills such as communication, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect relevant experiences and skills that align with the role. Emphasise any previous experience in security, customer service, or team environments, even if they are not directly related to prison work.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and explains why you would be a great fit. Mention your ability to handle varied tasks and your commitment to supporting the prison's operations.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at HM Prison and Probation Service
✨Show Your Communication Skills
As a Prison Support Role requires excellent communication, be prepared to demonstrate your ability to convey information clearly and effectively. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully communicated under pressure.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork
This role is all about being a great team player. Be ready to discuss how you've worked collaboratively in previous jobs or situations. Highlight any experiences where you supported your team to achieve a common goal.
✨Stay Calm Under Pressure
The job can be fast-paced and sometimes stressful. Prepare to share instances where you maintained your composure in challenging situations. This will show your potential employer that you can handle the demands of the role.
✨Understand the Role
Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities of an Operational Support Grade. Research the daily tasks and challenges faced in a prison environment. Showing that you understand the role will demonstrate your genuine interest and commitment.
