At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure the safety and security of detainees during court proceedings.
- Company: Join a dedicated team in Prisoner Escort Custody Services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, and extensive training opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible shifts with clear progression and support for your career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the justice system while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and ability to stay calm under pressure.
The predicted salary is between 24596 - 27180 £ per year.
Location: Lewes Crown Court, BN7 1YB
Role Overview: Join us as a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS) where you'll play a key role in keeping the justice system safe and secure. In addition to job security and stability we offer:
- Salary: £24,596 (35hrs pw), rising to £25,555 from 1st September 2026
- Further clear annual progression (Year 2: £26,191; Year 3: £26,684; Year 4: £27,180)
We operate 24/6 across early and late shifts, so flexibility is essential. Finishing times can be unpredictable, and you may need to work beyond your contracted hours to meet operational demands. Shifts are set on a rota provided 12 weeks in advance, giving you visibility to plan ahead. Part time working may be considered, but this must be across full working days, as reduced daily hours are not available.
Duties: As a PCO, you'll work as part of a team to deliver safe and secure escorting and custody services, ensuring detainee welfare at all times during court proceedings. You'll be responsible for detainees throughout court proceedings until their return to custody or release. Key duties include:
- Escorting detainees within the court, including to courtrooms, cells, and facilities
- Supervising detainees during hearings to maintain safety and security
- Managing sensitive situations and maintaining strict confidentiality
- Supporting detainee welfare, including access to food, drink, and wellbeing checks
- Monitoring behaviour and responding to incidents or risks
- Conducting searches to maintain a secure environment
- Completing accurate records and documentation
- Working closely with court staff and partners to ensure smooth operations
Requirements: Our PCO's come from a wide range of backgrounds-what matters most is your commitment to making a difference. You'll receive full training through a 5 week paid training course, plus ongoing support from experienced colleagues. The role requires:
- Full UK driving licence (B/B1) (desirable)
- Reasonable fitness for the physical demands of the role
- Strong communication skills (written and verbal)
- Ability to stay calm and make decisions under pressure
- Confidence managing behaviour and de-escalating conflict
- Teamwork and the ability to follow processes accurately
- Professionalism, integrity, and respect for confidentiality
Benefits: We offer:
- Holidays: 20 days (rising to 25 after 7 years' service) plus bank holidays (pro rated)
- Pension: Up to 6% contributory pension scheme (matched by Serco)
- Training and development: Structured induction (5 weeks), ongoing learning, access to internal courses and qualifications, mentoring, and a strong focus on internal progression
- Health and wellbeing: Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), support from mental health charity MIND, Simply Health cash and dental plans, wellbeing resources, discount on membership at Serco run gyms
- Discounts: Savings across major retailers and experiences, including Merlin attractions, cinema, leisure, retail, hospitality, mobile plans, and more
All candidates must have the right to work in the UK and will undergo Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks with DBS clearance, satisfactory employment references, occupational health checks, and random alcohol and drug testing.
Prisoner Custody Officer in Lewes employer: Serco Canada Inc
At Serco Canada Inc, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture that values innovation and collaboration. Our Birmingham location provides the perfect blend of remote flexibility and access to a vibrant city, while our commitment to employee growth ensures that you will have ample opportunities to develop your skills in the ever-evolving tech landscape of the Defence sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Prisoner Custody Officer in Lewes
✨Join Security Community Events
Dive into local security conferences and workshops. These events are goldmines for networking with industry professionals, and they often host recruiters looking for candidates for full-time roles like Prisoner Custody Officer. Plus, you can showcase your passion and familiarity with the latest trends!
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Utilise platforms like LinkedIn to follow and connect with leaders in security services. Engage with their content; it shows your interest and can spark conversations that might lead to job opportunities at companies like Serco Canada Inc. Don’t hesitate to reach out and ask for insights or informational interviews!
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✨Directly Apply to Serco Canada Inc
Don’t forget to apply for the Prisoner Custody Officer role directly through our website! It not only ensures that your application is seen by the right eyes but also demonstrates your enthusiasm for joining Serco Canada Inc.
We think you need these skills to ace Prisoner Custody Officer in Lewes
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Certifications:When applying for a full-time position in security services, make sure to showcase any relevant certifications you have, like SIA or other security industry qualifications. This adds credibility and shows that you're serious about your career in this field.
Demonstrate Your Attention to Detail:In security roles, attention to detail is crucial. Use your CV and cover letter to provide examples of how you’ve noticed and addressed security vulnerabilities or hazards in past jobs. This will help us see your proactive approach to ensuring safety.
Tailor Your Experience:Don’t just list duties from previous jobs; instead, frame your experiences in a way that relates directly to the role at Serco Canada Inc. Whether that's managing a team, conducting risk assessments, or successfully maintaining safety protocols, make this relevant to what we do.
Share Your Availability and Flexibility:Full-time roles often require a degree of flexibility. Make sure to clearly state your availability in your application, especially if you can work various shifts. This shows us your readiness to adapt to the needs of the role at Serco Canada Inc.
How to prepare for a job interview at Serco Canada Inc
✨Know Your Security Protocols
In the security services field, it's crucial to familiarise yourself with the latest security protocols and technologies. Brush up on things like surveillance systems, access control, and emergency response procedures. You'll likely face technical questions, so having a couple of solid scenarios or case studies ready can really impress your interviewers at Serco Canada Inc.
✨Demonstrate Situational Awareness
Prepare to showcase your situational awareness skills. You might be put in hypothetical scenarios where you need to assess potential risks or respond to incidents. Practising how you’d handle these situations ahead of time can give you the confidence to articulate your thought process during the interview.
✨Emphasise Teamwork & Communication
Since security services often rely on effective teamwork and clear communication, be ready to share examples of how you’ve successfully collaborated in the past. Highlight any instances where you’ve had to relay critical information or work closely with other services – this is key for a role at Serco Canada Inc.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
You can expect a variety of behavioural interview questions focusing on your past experiences and how you've handled challenges. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. Sharing specific examples from previous security roles or related jobs will help demonstrate your problem-solving abilities and reliability to the team at Serco Canada Inc.
