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- 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 impact in public safety.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, pension scheme, discounts, and a paid apprenticeship.
- Why this job: This unique role offers hands-on experience and opportunities for career progression in the prison system.
- Qualifications: No formal qualifications needed; just bring good communication skills and a calm demeanor.
- Other info: Flexible shifts including weekends and nights; potential to transition to a Prison Officer role.
The predicted salary is between 16656 - 20832 £ per year.
Operational Support Grade
HMP Littlehey
£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 enthusiasm and readiness for the Operational Support Grade position.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your communication skills during any interactions. Since this role requires good judgment and the ability to stay calm under pressure, showcasing these traits in conversations can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared to discuss your teamwork experience. This job is all about collaboration, so think of examples where you've successfully worked as part of a team, especially in fast-paced or challenging situations.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the specific challenges faced by HMP Littlehey. Showing that you understand the unique aspects of this prison can demonstrate your commitment and interest in the role, making you a more attractive candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Prison Support
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take some time 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, even if they were not in a prison setting.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your enthusiasm for the role and the unique opportunity it presents. Mention why you are interested in working in a prison environment and how your skills make you a suitable candidate.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents to ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application demonstrates 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 role involves communication, be prepared to demonstrate your ability to convey information clearly and effectively. Think of examples where you've successfully communicated in challenging situations.
✨Demonstrate Calmness Under Pressure
The job can be fast-paced and stressful. Prepare to discuss how you handle pressure and provide specific examples from past experiences where you maintained composure in difficult circumstances.
✨Highlight Teamwork Experience
Being a great team player is essential for this role. Share instances where you've worked collaboratively with others, emphasizing your ability to support and contribute to a team environment.
✨Understand the Role's Responsibilities
Familiarize yourself with the day-to-day tasks of an Operational Support Grade. Be ready to discuss how your skills and experiences align with the responsibilities mentioned in the job description.
