Prisoner Custody Officer in Taunton

Working as a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS) is more than just a job; it’s the chance to be a part of something great, to join a work family where you are valued, and you can make a difference every day. In addition to a rewarding career, we also offer:

• Base Salary of £23,402 (35hrs pw)
• Continuous training & development opportunities with annual salary increments (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 there are 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. We are open to considering part-time positions for day shifts only, but full‑time attendance is required during the initial training period of 5 1/2 weeks.

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, including accompanying them to the toilet to ensure security and safety.
• Monitoring and supervising detainees while they are in the docks during court sessions.
• Maintaining discretion and confidentiality regarding sensitive information discussed during court proceedings.
• Ensuring that detainees have access to food and drink throughout the day.
• Monitoring the mental and physical health of detainees and reporting any concerns.
• Ensuring the safety and security of the court environment.
• 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 your commitment to making a difference to the lives of others. 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: Online Assessment -> 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.

About Serco: At Serco, everyone has an important role to play, from caring for vulnerable people to managing complex public services. We are a team of 50,000 people responsible for delivering essential public services around the world. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation that supports the needs of all.