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- Tasks: Support the daily operations of a busy prison with a close-knit team.
- Company: Join HMP Lancaster Farms and be part of a vital support role.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, pension scheme, and retail discounts.
- Why this job: Make a difference in a unique environment while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and ability to manage various tasks.
- Other info: Flexible shifts with opportunities for career growth and development.
The predicted salary is between 29432 - 41205 £ per year.
As an Operational Support Grade, you will look after the day-to-day running of a busy prison, working in a close-knit team to carry out a range of support services – everything from patrol and gate duties to managing deliveries, supervising visitors and monitoring phone calls and CCTV. You will work shifts and nights to keep things running. You will work an average of 37 hours per week and this will include working night shifts, evenings, weekends and Bank/Public holidays (these days are added to your holiday allowance) on a rolling shift pattern. The frequency of night shifts will vary for each Establishment and can be discussed at interview.
Responsibilities
- Gate/portal duties – secure entry and exit, staff searches, key management
- Control room – operate radio system, monitor CCTV, report suspicious activities
- Visits – book visits, process visitors, escort if required
- Censors/correspondence – monitor mail, report contraband, preserve evidence
- Night duties – ensure cell doors are locked, prisoners are accounted for
- Reception – support tasks, photograph prisoners, collate documentation, search property
- Prisoner supervision – supervise prisoners, exchange clothing/property, assist free‑flow movement
- Food delivery – food trolley delivery and collection, electric tug vehicle use
- Driving duties – transport prisoners and escort to destinations, collect mail
- Phone calls – monitor PIN system, log PIN phone requests, complete paperwork, check legal numbers
- Procedures and protocol – understand and conform to national and local policies, invoke emergency procedures, respond to incidents
Success Profile
Communicating and Influencing Managing a Quality Service Job holder must be able to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence in English or (when specified in Wales) Welsh.
Benefits
- Annual leave 25 days on appointment, increasing to 30 days after 10 years' service (pro‑rata)
- Bank, public and privilege holidays – 9 days
- Paid Level 2 apprenticeship in customer service
- Generous Civil Service pension scheme
- Season ticket loans, retail discounts, employee assistance programme and cycle to work scheme
- £29,432 – salary figures quoted are for a 37 hour working week inclusive of 20% unsocial hours working allowance which is included in the salary to reflect the requirement to work nights, evening and weekend shifts.
13241 - Operational Support Grade - HMP Lancaster Farms (Prison Support Role) employer: Hmp Lancaster Farms
Contact Detail:
Hmp Lancaster Farms Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land 13241 - Operational Support Grade - HMP Lancaster Farms (Prison Support Role)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the role inside out! Familiarise yourself with the day-to-day tasks of an Operational Support Grade. This way, when you get that interview, you can show off your knowledge and enthusiasm for the job.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff at HMP Lancaster Farms on LinkedIn or other platforms. They can give you insider tips and maybe even put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to prison support roles. Think about scenarios where you've demonstrated communication and influencing skills, as these are key for the job.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining the team at HMP Lancaster Farms.
We think you need these skills to ace 13241 - Operational Support Grade - HMP Lancaster Farms (Prison Support Role)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Operational Support Grade. We want to see how you can contribute to the day-to-day running of the prison, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant experiences!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This will help us quickly see why you’re a great fit for the team!
Show Your Team Spirit: Since this role involves working in a close-knit team, let us know about your teamwork skills! Share examples of how you've collaborated with others in past roles, as we value those who can work well with colleagues and contribute to a positive environment.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do – just follow the prompts and you’ll be set!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hmp Lancaster Farms
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of an Operational Support Grade. Familiarise yourself with tasks like gate duties, monitoring CCTV, and supervising visitors. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since this role involves a lot of interaction with staff and prisoners, be prepared to demonstrate your communication skills. Think of examples where you've effectively communicated in challenging situations, as this will highlight your ability to influence and manage quality service.
✨Prepare for Shift Work Questions
Expect questions about your availability for shifts, including nights and weekends. Be honest about your flexibility and willingness to adapt to a rolling shift pattern. This shows that you understand the demands of the job and are ready to commit.
✨Understand Procedures and Protocols
Brush up on national and local policies related to prison operations. Being able to discuss emergency procedures or how to handle contraband will impress the interviewers and demonstrate your readiness to conform to essential protocols.
