At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure safety and security within the prison, assisting staff and managing visitors.
- Company: Join a supportive team in a vital public service role.
- Benefits: Generous annual leave, pension scheme, and access to training opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible shifts with opportunities for career growth and personal development.
- Why this job: Make a difference in a unique environment while developing valuable skills.
- Qualifications: No formal qualifications needed; just bring your common sense and teamwork spirit.
The predicted salary is between 26400 - 29432 £ per year.
Responsibilities:
- Secure entry and exit of staff, visitors and vehicles.
- Carry out searches of staff, prisoners, visitors and vehicles.
- Escort vehicles and contractors around the prison site.
- Issue and collect staff keys and radios.
- Patrol and search perimeter fence areas.
- Operate the prison radio system.
- Monitor CCTV and report suspicious activity.
- Welcome visitors and escort them if required.
- Log mail and report contraband items, preserving evidence where necessary.
- Ensure cell doors are locked and all prisoners are safely accounted for.
- Photograph prisoners and process prisoners' property and parcels.
- Assist prison officers with escorting prisoners around the prison.
- Deliver and collect food trolleys, sometimes using an electric tug vehicle.
- Collect mail from the local sorting office, monitor PIN phone system, and maintain the log of PIN phone requests.
- Understand and conform to national and local policies, responding appropriately to incidents and emergencies.
Pay and Allowances:
Salary figures quoted are for a 37 hour working week inclusive of a 20% unsocial hours working allowance which is included in the salary to reflect the requirement to work nights, evenings and weekends.
Benefits:
- Annual leave: 25 days on appointment, increasing to 30 days after 10 years' service (pro rata).
- 9 days bank, public and privilege holidays.
- Access to a paid Level 2 apprenticeship in customer service.
- Access to the Civil Service pension scheme.
- Season ticket loans, retail discounts, Employee Assistance Programme, and Cycle to Work scheme.
Hours:
Average of 37 hours per week on a rolling shift pattern that includes night, evening, weekend and bank/public holidays. Frequency of night shifts varies by establishment and can be discussed at interview.
Travel:
Prison may be located in rural areas; driving licence and own transport is beneficial but not essential except where specified.
Requirements:
No formal qualifications required. Good judgement, common sense, responsibility, teamwork and the ability to perform physical tasks such as lifting, carrying, standing and walking for long periods. Must be able to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence in English (or Welsh where specified).
Equal Opportunities:
Work is open to all applicants. The Civil Service Code sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operational Support Grade - HMP Werrington (Prison Support Role)
✨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 Ministry of Justice, 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 Ministry of Justice 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 Operational Support Grade - HMP Werrington (Prison Support Role)
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 Ministry of Justice 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 Ministry of Justice
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Ministry of Justice, 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 Ministry of Justice.
