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- Tasks: Join a team ensuring safety and security for detainees in court settings.
- Company: Be part of a vital service within the justice system, making a real difference.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension, life insurance, and health support perks.
- Why this job: Gain valuable experience while contributing to justice and supporting others.
- Qualifications: No specific experience needed; just a commitment to making a difference.
- Other info: Flexible shifts with a supportive culture focused on diversity and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 23402 - 23402 £ per year.
Location: Oxford Crown or Magistrates Court
Salary: £23,402 per annum
Permanent roles offering job stability & security.
Working as a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS) is more than just a role—it’s an opportunity to be part of a professional team that plays a vital role in the justice system, ensuring safety and security every day.
We also offer:
- Base Salary of £23,402 (35hrs pw).
- Continuous training & development opportunities.
- Annual base salary increment (year 2 - £23,984 / year 3 - £24,436 / year 4 - £24,890).
- Pension (matched up to 6%), life insurance.
- 20 days annual leave (rising to 25 after 7 years’ service) plus Bank Holidays.
- A range of benefits to support health and wellbeing such as Employee Assistance Programme, MIND, Simply Health Care and Dental Plans.
- Access to discounts and exclusive deals such as Merlin Attractions, Mobile Phone discounts, Cinema discounts, Leisure, Retail and Hospitality discounts.
- A supportive team & culture focused on diversity and inclusion.
We are operational 24/6 and you’ll cover various early and late shifts, 35hrs pw. Flexibility is key as due to the nature of the role there are a range of different working arrangements & additional hours. There will be days when your finishing time could be unpredictable; however, we operate a rota basis (provided 12 weeks in advance) that allows you the flexibility to enjoy meaningful time off.
About the Role:
As a PCO at our court, you’ll work as part of a team to provide safe and secure escorting and custody services to detainees, focusing on maintaining their physical and mental wellbeing. Key duties include:
- Escorting defendants to and from courtrooms, cells, and other areas within the court.
- Monitoring and supervising detainees during court sessions.
- Maintaining discretion and confidentiality regarding sensitive information.
- Listening to harrowing testimonies while managing your own emotional wellbeing.
- Ensuring that detainees have access to food and drink throughout the day.
- Monitoring the mental and physical health of detainees.
- Ensuring the safety and security of the court environment.
- Conducting thorough searches of property and individuals.
- Completing necessary paperwork and data entry accurately.
- Working closely with other court staff, law enforcement, and legal professionals.
What you need to do the job!
Our current PCOs come to us with different work & life experiences. What matters is that you’re committed to making a difference to the lives of others – the rest you will learn during your 5 1/2-weeks training course and through our experienced colleagues.
Ideally, you’ll have a current valid driver's license, be reasonably fit, and have good written and verbal communication skills. This role requires a high level of responsibility, vigilance, and the ability to handle challenging situations with professionalism and care.
Our Assessment Process:
- Briefing call to assess eligibility.
- Competency based Virtual Interview.
- Short role-play and written exercise.
Additional Information:
All roles are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, and all offers of employment are subject to Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks with Enhanced DBS (Adult & Child Barring) and satisfactory employment references.
This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship under current UK Home Office rules. Candidates who already have a valid right to work in the UK must meet the below minimum eligibility criteria:
- Have at least two years remaining on your current visa.
- Have lived in the UK for at least one year.
For general right-to-work guidance, please visit the UK Home Office website.
Prisoner Custody Officer employer: Reed.co.uk
Contact Detail:
Reed.co.uk Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Prisoner Custody Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the court system and the role of a Prisoner Custody Officer. Understanding the responsibilities and challenges faced in this position will help you demonstrate your commitment and knowledge during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the competency-based virtual interview by practising common situational questions. Think about scenarios where you've had to manage difficult situations or maintain professionalism under pressure, as these experiences will be valuable to share.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your communication skills by engaging in conversations with professionals in the field. Networking can provide insights into the role and may even lead to referrals, which can significantly boost your chances of landing the job.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared for the role-play and written exercise during the assessment process. Practising how to handle various scenarios related to detainee management will help you feel more confident and perform better in these assessments.
We think you need these skills to ace Prisoner Custody Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Prisoner Custody Officer. Read through the job description carefully and note the key duties and skills required.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the role. Emphasise any previous work in security, law enforcement, or roles requiring strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that explains why you are interested in the position and how your background makes you a suitable candidate. Mention your commitment to making a difference in the lives of others, as this is crucial for the role.
Prepare for the Assessment Process: Familiarise yourself with the assessment process outlined in the job description. Practice competency-based interview questions and prepare for the role-play and written exercise to demonstrate your suitability for the position.
How to prepare for a job interview at Reed.co.uk
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Prisoner Custody Officer. Familiarise yourself with the key duties, such as escorting detainees and maintaining their wellbeing, so you can discuss how your skills align with these tasks.
✨Demonstrate Professionalism
During the interview, showcase your ability to handle challenging situations with professionalism. Share examples from your past experiences where you maintained composure under pressure, as this role requires a high level of responsibility and vigilance.
✨Emphasise Communication Skills
Good written and verbal communication skills are essential for this position. Be prepared to discuss how you've effectively communicated in previous roles, especially in sensitive or high-stress situations, to ensure safety and security.
✨Show Commitment to Wellbeing
Express your commitment to the mental and physical wellbeing of detainees. Discuss any relevant experiences or training that demonstrate your understanding of the importance of support and discretion in a custodial environment.
