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- Tasks: Support daily prison operations, including security, deliveries, and monitoring activities.
- Company: Join His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service, making a real impact in the community.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, pension scheme, discounts, and training opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team and gain unique insights into prison operations.
- Qualifications: No formal qualifications needed; good communication and calmness under pressure are key.
- Other info: Flexible shifts, including weekends and nights, with potential career progression.
The predicted salary is between 27840 - 39000 £ per year.
Operational Support Grade
HMP Lewes
£27,840
His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service.
An extraordinary job. Done by someone like you.
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 .
Someone like you
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.
An extraordinary job
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 employer: Ministry of Justice
Contact Detail:
Ministry of Justice Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Prison Support
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the daily operations of a prison. Understanding the environment and the various roles within it can help you demonstrate your knowledge during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your communication skills and ability to stay calm under pressure. Think of examples from past experiences where you've successfully managed stressful situations or worked effectively in a team.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared to discuss your flexibility regarding shift work. Since the role involves various shifts, showing that you're adaptable and willing to work weekends and nights will make you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the specific prison you are applying to. Knowing about HMP Lewes and its unique challenges can help you tailor your responses and show genuine interest in the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Prison Support
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Operational Support Grade position. Understand the key responsibilities and the skills required, such as good communication and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
Tailor Your CV: Customize your CV to highlight relevant experiences and skills that align with the job requirements. Emphasize any previous roles that involved teamwork, security, or customer service.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and explains why you would be a great fit. Mention your ability to handle physical tasks and your commitment to supporting the prison's operations.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents to ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ministry of Justice
✨Show Your Communication Skills
As a key part of the Operational Support Grade role, effective communication is crucial. Be prepared to demonstrate your ability to communicate clearly and calmly, especially in high-pressure situations.
✨Highlight Teamwork Experience
This job requires being a great team player. Share examples from your past experiences where you successfully worked as part of a team, emphasizing your collaborative skills and how you contribute to group success.
✨Demonstrate Good Judgment
The role involves making quick decisions under pressure. Prepare to discuss scenarios where you had to use good judgment and common sense, showcasing your ability to handle challenging situations effectively.
✨Understand the Role's Physical Demands
Since the job includes physical tasks like lifting and walking, be ready to talk about your physical fitness and any relevant experiences that show you can handle the demands of the role.
