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- Tasks: Support operational policing by ensuring the safety and welfare of detainees in custody.
- Company: Join North Yorkshire Police, a supportive and inclusive emergency services team.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous leave, pension scheme, and health cash plan.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while developing valuable skills.
- Qualifications: Good communication skills, resilience, and a full UK driving licence required.
- Other info: Opportunities for career progression and professional development in a dynamic environment.
The predicted salary is between 25242 - 29859 ÂŁ per year.
Location: York, Scarborough or Harrogate
Salary: ÂŁ25,242 - ÂŁ29,859 (NYP Scale 3-4) plus 20% shift allowance and 47.8 weekend working hours
Contract: Permanent | Full Time
Shifts: 12-hour shift pattern consisting of 2 x day shifts (7am to 7pm), 2 x night shifts (7pm to 7am), then 4 rest days
We’re excited to welcome applications for both new and transferee Detention Officers to join our busy Custody Suites. This is your chance to play a vital role at the heart of operational policing, supporting officers and safeguarding the public every day.
As a Detention Officer you will carry out a wide range of duties to ensure the safety, security, and hygiene of the custody environment. You will also monitor and maintain the welfare of the detainees and provide support to the Custody Sergeant.
Key responsibilities will include:- Booking-in detainees, drug testing, taking DNA and similar samples, searches, taking photographs and fingerprints; all to provide the Force with information to aid the detection of crime.
- Making the Custody Sergeant aware of any changes in behaviour or well-being of detainees so that any welfare concerns are addressed immediately.
- Applying procedures, guidelines and statutory requirements relevant to the detention of prisoners to ensure compliance with the Police and Criminal Evidence Act, (PACE), Home Office guidelines and Criminal Law.
- Providing administrative support in connection with custody suite systems and procedures to ensure the service provided is efficient and that records are properly maintained supporting the effective management of the unit.
This is a challenging yet rewarding role which requires excellent communication and interpersonal skills, along with the ability to demonstrate resilience in potentially difficult situations. In addition, you must:
- Have good keyboard and computer skills, with the ability to learn to utilise bespoke software packages and all relevant security policies and operating procedures.
- Able to work effectively in a team to achieve shared objectives, demonstrating awareness of individual differences and providing support as required.
- Have good communication skills with the ability to listen to others.
- Be able to show experience of working in a pressurised environment and on own initiative.
- Be able to proactively develop effective working relationships with colleagues, partners and other stakeholders.
- Hold a full manual UK driving licence.
Please note: Confirmation of post is subject to passing a 3-week (Mon–Fri) training course delivered within force. The next available course is scheduled for April 2026. While we aim to progress successful candidates towards this date, attendance is dependent on completing all pre‑employment checks satisfactorily.
During your probation you will undertake a Detention Officer accreditation period and once you have been signed off on certain areas this will lead to pay increments. Once you are in the role, all Detention Officers may be required to work in other custody suites across North Yorkshire to provide resilience for the Directorate when required.
Transferee Detention Officer Applicants:We warmly welcome applications from Detention Officers currently serving with other forces. To be eligible to apply you will have:
- Evidence of Custody accreditation (2-week initial Custody course plus annual CPD or local force equivalent)
- Current PPST accreditation
- Current First Aid accreditation including Mod 3: Custody
Why Join Us?
Working for the emergency services is both meaningful and impactful. At North Yorkshire Police, we’re committed to helping colleagues reach their full potential in a fair, inclusive, and supportive environment. We value diverse perspectives and actively promote staff wellbeing so everyone can thrive.
We’re also proud to provide a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your wellbeing, work‑life balance, and professional growth:
- Local Government Pension Scheme– secure and competitive retirement planning
- Salary Sacrifice Car Scheme– access to affordable vehicle leasing options (NHS Fleet Solution)
- Generous Annual Leave– 24 days rising to 30 with length of service, plus bank holidays
- Blue Light Discount– enjoy savings at major retailers and services
- Health Cash Plan
- Access to Trade Union Membership– opportunity to join UNISON
- Inclusion & Diversity Networks– connect with colleagues and contribute to a culture of belonging
- Health & Wellbeing Services– access to resources that support your physical and mental health
- Cycle to Work Scheme – Save money on bikes and accessories
- Civil Service Sports Club (CSSC) Membership – Access to discounted sports & leisure activities.
To be considered for this role, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- You must have the right to work in the UK, with no restrictions on your employment
- Hold a full UK manual driving licence
- Meet residency requirements for vetting: RV Level Vetting– minimum 3 years UK residency
North Yorkshire Police is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive working environment. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or within your role, please declare this within your online application. A member of our team will contact you prior to your interview to ensure appropriate support is in place.
North Yorkshire Police is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. Safeguarding is a core part of our recruitment process, and we expect all applicants to share this commitment. All successful candidates will undergo a thorough recruitment process and must obtain satisfactory pre‑employment clearances before commencing employment, including satisfactory Vetting or DBS checks, references, and a medical assessment, including absence history. Adherence to our safeguarding policies and procedures is essential.
As part of our selection process, we’ll assess your skills and experience against the requirements of the role. We therefore encourage you to take your time to tailor your application, ensuring your responses align with the job advert and role profile.
Interviews are scheduled to take place: February 2026. Proposed course date: 29 June 2026 (subject to change). If successful at the recruitment process, we will progress you towards this course date. Please note that pre‑employment checks must be cleared before attending, and delays may affect your start date.
We look forward to receiving your application!
Detention Officer Including Transferee Opportunities - Custody employer: North Yorkshire Police
Contact Detail:
North Yorkshire Police Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Detention Officer Including Transferee Opportunities - Custody
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the role inside out! Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities of a Detention Officer, like booking in detainees and monitoring their welfare. This will help you stand out during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current Detention Officers or people in similar roles on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have. This can give you insider knowledge and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your interview skills! Mock interviews with friends or family can help you get comfortable answering questions about your experience and how you handle pressure. Remember, communication is key in this role!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and the application process there.
We think you need these skills to ace Detention Officer Including Transferee Opportunities - Custody
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences match the role of a Detention Officer. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since excellent communication is key in this role, don’t forget to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively in your written application. Share examples of how you've successfully interacted with others in challenging situations.
Highlight Relevant Experience: If you've worked in a pressurised environment or have experience in custody settings, make sure to mention it! We want to see how your background prepares you for the responsibilities of this role.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our careers website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered promptly. Plus, you can find all the details you need there!
How to prepare for a job interview at North Yorkshire Police
✨Know Your Role Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Detention Officer. Familiarise yourself with key duties like booking-in detainees and monitoring their welfare. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Detention Officer, excellent communication is crucial. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've effectively communicated in challenging situations. This could be during teamwork or when dealing with difficult individuals. Highlighting these skills will demonstrate your suitability for the role.
✨Demonstrate Resilience and Initiative
The job can be pressurised, so be ready to discuss how you've handled stress in previous roles. Share specific instances where you took the initiative to solve problems or support colleagues. This will illustrate your ability to thrive in a demanding environment.
✨Prepare Questions for Your Interviewers
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, training opportunities, and career progression within the custody suite. This shows your enthusiasm for the position and helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.
