Prison Custody Officer (PCO) - HMP Forest Bank

Please note: This role is not eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route in line with current UK immigration rules.\\n\\nSECURE THE PRESENT, SHAPE THE FUTURE – Transform Lives as a Prison Custody Officer!\\n\\nAs a Prison Custody Officer, you’ll play a crucial role in maintaining safety, security, and order within our prison facilities.This is more than just a job – it’s a meaningful opportunity to support rehabilitation, ensure justice, and contribute to the wider community.\\n\\nIf you're pursuing a career with meaning, we welcome you to apply for the position of Prison Custody Officer at HMP Forest Bank\\n\\nWhat You'll Do\\n\\nYour responsibilities will include:\\n\\nMaintaining a secure and disciplined prison environment\\n\\nSupervising daily routines, prisoner movements, and scheduled activities\\n\\nEscorting prisoners securely within and outside the facility\\n\\nResponding calmly and professionally to challenging or high-pressure situations\\n\\nSupporting rehabilitation initiatives and encouraging positive behaviours\\n\\nBuilding respectful, professional relationships with prisoners to promote a safer, more supportive atmosphere\\n\\nWho We're Looking For\\n\\nThere’s no such thing as a typical prison officer.Our team is made up of people from all walks of life – whether you’re a parent, former teacher, retail worker, member of the armed forces, or simply someone who thrives on helping others.\\n\\nWhatever your background, if you’re a natural people person with strong communication skills, self-confidence, empathy, and resilience, we want to hear from you.\\n\\nYou’ll be working with individuals who may be at the lowest point in their lives.No matter the challenge, you'll be expected to build constructive, positive, and professional relationships based on fairness, consistency, and respect.\\n\\nTeamwork Matters\\n\\nTeamwork plays a vital role in this environment.You’ll need to be fully committed to supporting your colleagues and understand the importance of acting as one team to keep the prison safe – for staff, visitors, and prisoners alike.\\n\\nThe Behaviours That Make a Great Officer\\n\\nTo thrive in this role, you’ll need to demonstrate:\\n\\nCalm Under Pressure – Manage high-stress or unpredictable situations with a level head\\n\\nEmpathy & Respect – Treat everyone with dignity, regardless of their circumstances\\n\\nStrong Ethics – Maintain fairness, professionalism, and integrity at all times\\n\\nResilience & Adaptability – Stay composed and effective, even when the job gets tough\\n\\nEffective Communication – Listen actively and speak clearly and confidently\\n\\nConflict Resolution – Use de-escalation techniques to manage tension and disputes\\n\\nTeamwork – Collaborate closely with colleagues for the safety and success of all\\n\\nVigilance – Remain observant, alert, and responsive to potential risks\\n\\nTraining and Development\\n\\nYou don’t need prior experience to apply. You’ll receive a comprehensive 8-week training programme, delivered locally, to fully prepare you for the role. This includes:\\n\\nClassroom and practical learning\\n\\nConflict resolution and communication training\\n\\nShadowing experienced officers\\n\\nContinued development and support throughout your career\\n\\nEligibility Criteria\\n\\nTo apply for a position as a Prison Officer, you must meet the following requirements:\\n\\nBe at least 18 years of age at the time your employment begins\\n\\nMeet the required eyesight standards in both eyes, with or without corrective lenses\\n\\nHave an adequate level of hearing without the use of hearing aids, for safety reasons during training and operational duties\\n\\nTattoos are permitted, including those that are visible, but must not be offensive, discriminatory, violent, or intimidating.\\n\\nFacial tattoos are generally not allowed, except where they are for cultural, religious, or medical reasons\\n\\nA Role That Offers More\\n\\nThis role provides opportunities for personal growth, career progression, and the satisfaction of knowing your work truly matters.