At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure safe escorting and custody services for detainees during court proceedings.
- Company: Join Serco, a leader in prisoner escort services with a commitment to diversity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holidays, pension scheme, and health support.
- Other info: Enjoy structured training, career progression, and discounts on major retailers.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by safeguarding detainee welfare and ensuring courtroom security.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and ability to stay calm under pressure.
The predicted salary is between 24596 - 25555 £ per year.
Location
Truro TR1 2PB
About the Role
We are seeking a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) to join our Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS).
You will be a key member of a team that ensures safe and secure escorting and custody services during court proceedings, safeguarding detainee welfare at all times.
Salary
£24,596 for 35 hours per week (up to £25,555 from 1 September 2026) with clear annual progression (Year 2: £26,191; Year 3: £26,684; Year 4: £27,180).
We operate 24 / 6 across early and late shifts; flexibility and willingness to work beyond contracted hours is essential.
Responsibilities
- Escort detainees within the court area, including to courtrooms, cells, and other facilities.
- Supervise detainees during hearings to maintain safety and security.
- Manage sensitive situations and uphold strict confidentiality.
- Support detainee welfare, ensuring access to food, drink, and wellbeing checks.
- Monitor behaviour, respond to incidents or risks.
- Conduct searches to maintain a secure environment.
- Complete accurate records and documentation.
- Work collaboratively with court staff and partners to ensure smooth operations.
Requirements
- Full UK driving licence (B/B1) - desirable.
- Reasonable fitness for the physical demands of the role.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to stay calm and make decisions under pressure.
- Confidence in managing behaviour and de escalating conflict.
- Teamwork and the ability to follow processes accurately.
- Professionalism, integrity, and respect for confidentiality.
- Right to work in the UK; if on a visa, it must remain valid for at least 2 years and you must have at least one year of UK residency.
- Willingness to undergo Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks, Enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) clearance, satisfactory employment references, and occupational health checks.
Benefits
- Holidays: 20 days (rising to 25 after 7 years' service) plus bank holidays (pro rata).
- Pension: Up to 6% contributory scheme (matched by Serco).
- Training & development: Structured 5 week induction, ongoing learning, internal courses, mentoring, and a focus on internal progression.
- Health & wellbeing: Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), support from mental health charity MIND, Simply Health cash and dental plans, wellbeing resources, gym discounts.
- Discounts across major retailers, entertainment, leisure, and more.
- Equal Opportunity Statement
At Serco we see people first and foremost for their performance and potential.
We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation, supporting the needs of all.
We will make reasonable adjustments at interview through to employment and encourage applications from a diverse candidate pool.
Safeguarding
All colleagues share responsibility for safeguarding children and vulnerable adults and must complete the required training and follow our safeguarding policies.
Prisoner Custody Officer in Truro 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 Truro
✨Join Security Community Events
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We think you need these skills to ace Prisoner Custody Officer in Truro
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.
