At a Glance
- Tasks: Protect the public and support prisoners in a women's prison environment.
- Company: Join HMP Eastwood Park, a supportive and impactful workplace.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working hours, and opportunities for additional paid hours.
- Other info: Dynamic role with various responsibilities and excellent career progression.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: No formal qualifications needed; empathy and communication skills are key.
The predicted salary is between 35875 - 35875 £ per year.
Full Time, Part Time, Part Time/Job Share, Flexible Working
Location: Bristol, South West
Salary: £35,875 (39 hour week inc 20% unsocial)
Job Overview
All staff have a responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of children. The post holder must undertake the appropriate level of training and is responsible for ensuring that they understand and work within the safeguarding policies of the organisation. Prison officers protect the public and help make an impact on prisoners' lives. We are working in a women’s prison so many challenges differ from a male prison; many inmates have experienced emotional, physical or sexual abuse and may lack trust in staff.
Key Responsibilities
- Protect the public and maintain safety within the prison environment.
- Build constructive, positive and professional relationships with prisoners.
- Work various shifts, including evenings, nights, weekends and public holidays, within a 39 hour week.
- Support colleagues, acting as one team to keep the prison and everyone safe.
- Perform various roles throughout the day – from peacekeeper to counsellor or teacher.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Must be 18 years or older at the start of employment.
- Meet Civil Service nationality requirements.
- Pass a medical and fitness assessment.
- Meet required eyesight standard in both eyes (with and without corrective lenses).
- Meet suitable hearing standard without hearing aids.
- Tattoos must not be offensive, discriminatory, violent or intimidating; facial tattoos generally not acceptable except for cultural, religious or medical reasons.
- For a category A prison, you must have been a resident in the UK for the last 3 years.
Travel to Work
A driving licence and own transport are beneficial but not an essential requirement, unless specified. Shift start and finish times are fixed; you must be able to reach work on time.
Nationality Requirements
- UK nationals
- Nationality of the Republic of Ireland
- Commonwealth citizens with the right to work in the UK
- EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein nationals and family members with settled or pre‑settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
- Individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020
- Turkish nationals and certain family members of Turkish nationals with accrued rights to work in the Civil Service
Essential Skills
You don’t need qualifications to become a prison officer. Personal qualities are more important: empathy, self‑confidence, great communication skills, resilience, teamwork, and the ability to support colleagues.
Pay
The initial training is 37 hours a week. After training, you may choose to work 37, 39 or 41 hours a week; your salary will reflect the hours chosen.
Benefits
Pay includes applicable allowances. Prisons operate 24/7, so opportunities for additional paid hours are available. Shifts include evenings, nights, weekends and public holidays, which are added to your holiday allowance.
Application Process
Assessment includes online tests (numerical, written and spoken English), a values‑based test, an online assessment centre, and medical and fitness tests (eyesight, hearing, basic health screening). Successful candidates receive a job offer immediately if a vacancy exists or are placed on a reserve list.
Legal / EEO Statement
“A Great Place to Work for Veterans” initiative includes a guaranteed interview scheme for eligible former members of the Armed Forces. The department respects equality and offers reasonable adjustment support where needed.
Closing Date
10th June 2026
Prison Officer - HMP Eastwood Park in Wotton-under-Edge employer: Ministry of Justice
HMP Eastwood Park is an exceptional employer that prioritises the welfare of both its staff and the women in its care. With a strong commitment to employee development, flexible working options, and a supportive team environment, we empower our prison officers to make a meaningful impact on the lives of prisoners while ensuring public safety. Located in Bristol, this role offers unique challenges and rewards, making it an ideal place for those seeking a fulfilling career in a dynamic and compassionate setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Prison Officer - HMP Eastwood Park in Wotton-under-Edge
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the prison environment! Familiarise yourself with HMP Eastwood Park and its unique challenges. Understanding the specific needs of female inmates can really set you apart during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! As a prison officer, you'll need to build trust and rapport with inmates. Role-play scenarios with friends or family to boost your confidence in handling tough conversations.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your personal qualities! Highlight your empathy, resilience, and teamwork abilities in interviews. Share real-life examples that demonstrate how you've supported others in challenging situations.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, keep an eye out for any upcoming assessment days or events where you can meet the team and learn more about the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Prison Officer - HMP Eastwood Park in Wotton-under-Edge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your personal qualities align with the role of a prison officer. We want to see your empathy, communication skills, and resilience shine through!
Be Clear and Concise:When filling out your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the point!
Show Your Passion:Let us know why you want to be a prison officer at HMP Eastwood Park. Share your motivation for wanting to make a difference in prisoners' lives and how you can contribute to a positive environment.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details directly and can process your application smoothly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ministry of Justice
✨Know Your Role
Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities of a prison officer, especially in a women's prison. Understand the unique challenges faced by female inmates and be ready to discuss how you can build trust and positive relationships with them.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Highlight your personal qualities like empathy, resilience, and communication skills during the interview. Prepare examples from your past experiences that demonstrate these traits, as they are crucial for the role.
✨Prepare for Assessments
Be ready for the online tests and assessments mentioned in the job description. Brush up on your numerical and written English skills, and practice situational judgement scenarios that reflect the values of the organisation.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the working environment. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you understand if it’s the right fit for you. Consider asking about training opportunities or team dynamics.
