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- Tasks: Support daily prison operations, from security checks to managing deliveries and monitoring CCTV.
- Company: Join His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service for a unique career opportunity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, training, and access to a Civil Service pension.
- Other info: Opportunities for career progression and a paid Level 2 apprenticeship available.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while gaining valuable experience in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: No formal qualifications needed; good communication and teamwork skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 29432 - 29432 £ 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.
Travel to Work – Some prison establishments are situated in rural locations with limited public transport options, therefore a driving licence and own transport is beneficial but is not an essential requirement of the role. Please note that shift start and finish times are fixed and it is your responsibility to get to and from your place of work on time for the start of your shift. Please carefully consider the location of this vacancy and your transport options.
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.
Prison Support - HMP Winchester employer: HM Prison and Probation Service
Contact Detail:
HM Prison and Probation Service Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Prison Support - HMP Winchester
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the role inside out! Familiarise yourself with the daily tasks and responsibilities of an Operational Support Grade. This will help you speak confidently about how your skills align with what they’re looking for.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees on LinkedIn or other platforms. They can give you insider tips on the interview process and what it’s really like working at HMP Winchester.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to teamwork, communication, and handling pressure. Role-play with a friend or family member to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, you’ll have access to all the latest job openings and updates directly from us.
We think you need these skills to ace Prison Support - HMP Winchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm for the role and what makes you a great fit.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to tailor your application to the Prison Support role at HMP Winchester. Highlight any relevant experience or skills that match the job description, like your ability to stay calm under pressure or work well in a team.
Keep It Clear and Concise: We appreciate clarity! Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use bullet points if necessary to make it easy for us to read and understand your key strengths and experiences.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our amazing team.
How to prepare for a job interview at HM Prison and Probation Service
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the Prison Support role at HMP Winchester. Familiarise yourself with the daily tasks, such as security checks and managing deliveries. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the position.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a key part of the team, being a good communicator is essential. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated in past roles or situations, especially under pressure. This will demonstrate your ability to keep calm and work well with others in a fast-paced environment.
✨Highlight Your Team Player Attitude
The role requires a great team player, so be ready to discuss your experiences working in teams. Share specific instances where you contributed to a team's success or helped resolve conflicts. This will illustrate your collaborative spirit and adaptability.
✨Plan Your Journey
Since some prisons are in rural areas with limited transport, think about how you'll get to HMP Winchester on time for your shifts. Mention your transport options during the interview to show that you've considered this aspect seriously, which reflects your commitment to the role.