Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- 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 the community.
- 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 bring good communication skills and a calm attitude under pressure.
- Other info: Flexible shifts available, with potential career progression into other prison roles.
The predicted salary is between 20832 - 27840 £ 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 recruiters or during networking events. Being able to convey your thoughts clearly and effectively is crucial in a role that requires teamwork and interaction with various stakeholders.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for situational questions that may arise during interviews. Think about scenarios where you've had to remain calm under pressure or make quick decisions, as these experiences will be valuable in the fast-paced environment of a prison.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former employees in similar roles. They can provide insights into the job and share tips on how to stand out as a candidate, which can be incredibly beneficial when applying through our website.
We think you need these skills to ace Prison Support Role
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Prison Support Role. Understand the key responsibilities and skills required, such as communication and teamwork, to tailor your application effectively.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your ability to remain calm under pressure and your experience in team settings. Use specific examples from past experiences that demonstrate these skills to make your application stand out.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that explains why you are interested in the role and how your background makes you a suitable candidate. Be sure to mention your enthusiasm for contributing to the safety and smooth operation of the prison.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in this role.
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 your ability to support colleagues and contribute to a positive team environment.
✨Stay Calm Under Pressure
The interviewers will likely assess your ability to handle stressful situations. Prepare to share specific instances where you maintained composure during challenging times, showcasing your good judgement and common sense.
✨Understand the Role
Familiarise yourself with the day-to-day responsibilities of an Operational Support Grade. Show that you understand the importance of the role in maintaining safety and security within the prison environment, and express your enthusiasm for contributing to this vital work.
