Detention Officer

Detention Officer

Full-Time 29859 - 29859 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
D

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Ensure safety and welfare of individuals in custody while supporting operational policing.
  • Company: Join the Bournemouth Divisional HQ team and make a real difference.
  • Benefits: Starting salary of £27,204 with yearly increments and full-time hours.
  • Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal growth and development.
  • Why this job: Be at the heart of the criminal justice system and help those in need.
  • Qualifications: Resilience, professionalism, and ability to manage unpredictable situations.

The predicted salary is between 29859 - 29859 £ per year.

  • Detention
  • Officer

Location: Bournemouth (Based at Bournemouth Divisional HQ (BQ), Weymouth Police Station (MJ) Salary : Starts at £27,204 rising by yearly increments to a maximum of £29,859 per annum

  • Vacancy
  • Type: Permanent, Full Time (37 hours per week)
  • Closing

Date: 27 of August 2026 Are you looking for a new challenging yet rewarding role where you can make a real difference?

Do you thrive in a fast-paced environment and have the resilience to handle unpredictable situations?

If so, a role as a Detention Officer could be your next career move!

About the Role As a Detention Officer, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and welfare of individuals in custody while supporting operational policing.

This is a unique opportunity to work at the heart of our criminal justice system, managing detainees with professionalism, integrity, and compassion.

What You’ll

Doing: Ensuring all necessary records are accurately maintained.

Carrying out welfare checks and responding to detainee needs in accordance with regulations.

Managing conflict and de-escalating situations wherever possible.

Physically restraining individuals where necessary to ensure your safety, the safety of your colleagues and the public.

Assisting custody officers in risk ass...

Detention Officer employer: Devon & Cornwall Police

Dorset Police offers an exceptional work environment for the Senior Financial Accountant role, with a strong emphasis on teamwork and professional development. Located in Exeter, employees benefit from a hybrid working model that promotes work-life balance, alongside competitive salaries and opportunities for career progression within a supportive and dynamic finance department. Joining us means being part of a dedicated team that plays a vital role in serving the community and ensuring financial integrity across two police forces.

D

Contact Details:

Devon & Cornwall Police Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Detention Officer

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 Devon & Cornwall 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 Devon & Cornwall 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

Record Keeping
Welfare Checks
Conflict Management
De-escalation Techniques
Physical Restraint
Safety Awareness
Professionalism

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 Devon & Cornwall 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 Devon & Cornwall Police

Get to Know Public Sector Values

Before your interview with Devon & Cornwall 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 Devon & Cornwall Police.