Prisoner Custody Officer in Reading

Overview

The Prisoner Custody Officer role with Serco is a permanent position offering job stability and the opportunity to contribute to the justice system. As a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS), you’ll help maintain safety and security every day.

Benefits

• Base salary of £23,402 (35 hours per week).
• Salary progression with yearly 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 days after 7 years’ service, plus Bank Holidays.
• Employee health and wellbeing benefits such as Employee Assistance Programme, MIND, Simply HealthCare and Dental Plans.
• Discounts on Merlin Attractions, mobile, cinema, leisure, retail and hospitality deals.
• Supportive team and culture with a strong focus on diversity and inclusion.

We are operational 24/6 and you’ll cover various early and late shifts, 35 hours per week. Flexibility is required due to the nature of the role, with a range of working arrangements and potential additional hours. Rotas are provided 12 weeks in advance to help you plan time off.

Responsibilities

• Escort defendants to and from courtrooms, cells, and other areas within the court, including accompanying them to the toilet to ensure security and safety. This may involve being handcuffed to the detainee.
• Monitor and supervise detainees during court sessions, ensuring security and that they do not pose a risk to themselves or others.
• Maintain confidentiality and discretion when handling sensitive information discussed during court proceedings. Be prepared to listen to challenging testimonies and provide support while managing your own wellbeing.
• Ensure detainees have access to food and drink throughout the day, accommodating dietary requirements or restrictions.
• Monitor the mental and physical health of detainees and report concerns to the appropriate authorities.
• Maintain safety and security of the court environment, respond to incidents or emergencies, and conduct searches to prevent contraband from entering secure areas.
• Complete necessary paperwork and data entry accurately, including logging detainee movements and incidents.
• Collaborate with other court staff, law enforcement, and legal professionals to ensure smooth and secure court operations.

Qualifications

• Current valid driver’s license.
• Reasonably fit with good written and verbal communication skills.
• High level of responsibility and vigilance, with the ability to handle challenging situations professionally and with care.
• Interest in criminology or psychology is advantageous.

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.
• Offers subject to Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks with Enhanced DBS (Adult & Child Barring) and satisfactory employment references.
• All staff have a responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and vulnerable young adults. The post holder must undertake the appropriate level of safeguarding training and work within the organisation’s safeguarding policies.
• This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship under current UK Home Office rules. Candidates must meet the minimum eligibility criteria. For right-to-work guidance, visit the UK Home Office website.
• Minimum eligibility criteria: Have at least two years remaining on your current visa; have lived in the UK for at least one year (vetting requires a counter-signatory from a recognised professional).

Apply

Please click the apply button to complete your application. Serco is committed to diversity and inclusion and will provide reasonable adjustments at interview and throughout employment. We support flexible and hybrid working where possible. We are Disability Confident Leader employers and hold the Gold Inclusive Employer Standard. For help with your application please contact j&icareersUK@serco.com.

We also support fair access to employment for people with unspent criminal convictions where possible; some roles may have restrictions due to security clearances.