At a Glance
- Tasks: Support custody sergeants and ensure detainees' rights are upheld in a busy environment.
- Company: Join Bedfordshire Police, a pioneering and inclusive force serving a diverse community.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, generous leave, pension schemes, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Comprehensive training provided, with opportunities for career development and progression.
- Why this job: Make a real difference while gaining valuable experience in a rewarding career.
- Qualifications: Must be physically fit, resilient, and possess excellent communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 28000 £ per year.
We are currently recruiting for candidates to join Bedfordshire Police as a Custody Detention Officer.
The role involves working as part of a team in support of custody Sergeants, carrying out a multi-functional role within busy custody units that are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The custody department is managed collaboratively by a senior management team overseeing custody units across Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire, with custody staff supervised locally by custody sergeants and dedicated custody inspectors.
Key duties and responsibilities:
- Ensuring that persons in police detention are afforded their rights and entitlements and are treated ethically in accordance with legislation and Home Office rules.
- The reception of police detainees, including creating computer records to book persons into police custody and recording actions during detention.
- Ensuring the welfare needs of detainees are met through the development and implementation of a care plan.
- Monitoring multiple detainees and responding to individual needs.
- Taking fingerprints, DNA, and photographs of detainees.
- Maintenance of custody, including safety checks and cleanliness of the facility.
Key skills, knowledge, and experience required:
- Physically fit enough to pass a medical assessment if required.
- Ability to complete annual Staff Protection Training.
- An updated CV with past and present work history, detailing any gaps of employment.
- Ability to work under pressure, demonstrating resilience and flexibility.
- Patience and compassion.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to treat individuals fairly, regardless of circumstance.
- Ability to work as part of a team.
- An eye for detail.
- Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office or similar computer packages.
- Ability to travel independently to other custody suites within Bedfordshire.
The application process will include an interview and a medical questionnaire. Interviews will take place in person; further details will be provided if you are shortlisted. Fully paid training to carry out the role will be provided, including a five-week training programme followed by a period of mentoring in the workplace.
In return, the force can offer:
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- Access to the Blue Light Card scheme
- Free access to force gyms
Hours: Detention Officers are expected to work within a shift pattern, including nights and weekends across a rotating shift pattern.
Location: Kempston and Luton Police Stations.
Additional Information:
- All internal applicants must have successfully completed their probationary period to apply for this role.
- This vacancy is live to those at risk of redundancy and will remain open to redeployees until the conditional offer stage throughout the recruitment process.
- As a Disability Confident leader, we take personal responsibility to help create an inclusive workplace.
- If you have a disability and meet the minimum criteria for the position, you will be entitled to an interview under the ‘Offer an Interview Scheme’.
What We Offer:
- Pension Schemes: Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme, with employer contributions and death-in-service benefits.
- Generous Annual Leave: 24 to 33 days (depending on rank and length of service).
- Sick Pay: Up to six months full pay and six months half pay (depending on service).
- Family Leave: Occupational maternity, adoption, and paternity pay (depending on service).
- Flexible Working: Including compressed hours, flexible shifts, job sharing, annualised hours, and agile working (role dependent).
- Wellbeing Support: Local wellbeing teams, on-site gym facilities and exercise classes (location dependent).
- Sports & Social Clubs: Enjoy discounts, trips, and events through our dedicated clubs.
- Financial Support: Access to Police Mutual for savings plans, insurance, loans, and independent financial advice.
- Employee Assistance Programme: Confidential support for personal and professional wellbeing.
- Career Development: Opportunities for progression, promotion, and leadership training.
We are committed to building a workforce that is inclusive and truly representative of the communities we serve. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, especially those currently under-represented in policing.
Detention Officer Bedfordshire in Kempston employer: Bedfordshire Police
Bedfordshire Police is an exceptional employer, offering a meaningful career as a Custody Detention Officer in a dynamic and supportive environment. With comprehensive benefits including access to the Local Government Pension Scheme, generous annual leave, and extensive wellbeing support, employees are encouraged to thrive both personally and professionally. The inclusive work culture prioritises diversity and provides ample opportunities for career development, making it an ideal place for those looking to make a real difference in their community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Detention Officer Bedfordshire in Kempston
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Bedfordshire Police, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Bedfordshire Police and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Detention Officer Bedfordshire in Kempston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Bedfordshire Police and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bedfordshire Police
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Bedfordshire Police, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Bedfordshire Police.
