At a Glance
- Tasks: Support daily prison operations, from security checks to managing deliveries and monitoring CCTV.
- Company: Join His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service, making a real difference in public safety.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, pension scheme, retail discounts, and training opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible shifts including weekends and nights, with potential career progression into prison officer roles.
- 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.
The predicted salary is between 23400 - 31200 £ 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.
- 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 Details:
HM Prison and Probation Service Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Prison Support Role in Godmanchester
✨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 for this role, so practice articulating your experiences and how they relate to the job.
✨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 work as part of a team, as these are key attributes for the Operational Support Grade role.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former employees of HMP Littlehey or similar institutions. They can provide valuable insights into the role and the application process, which can give you an edge over other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Prison Support Role in Godmanchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Prison Support Role. Highlight key skills such as communication, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
Tailor Your CV:Customise your CV to reflect relevant experiences and skills that align with the role. Emphasise any previous experience in operational support or similar environments, even if it's not directly related to a prison setting.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter:Write a compelling cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and explains why you would be a great fit. Mention your ability to work in a fast-paced environment and your commitment to supporting the team.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
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 where you've successfully communicated in challenging situations.
✨Stay Calm Under Pressure
This role can be fast-paced and demanding. During the interview, share experiences where you maintained composure in stressful situations. This will show that you can handle the pressures of the job.
✨Emphasise Teamwork
Being a great team player is crucial in this role. Highlight your experiences working in teams, focusing on how you contributed to group success and supported your colleagues.
✨Demonstrate Good Judgement
The ability to make sound decisions is vital. Prepare to discuss scenarios where you had to use your judgement effectively, especially in situations that required quick thinking or problem-solving.
