At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure safety and security while escorting detainees in court environments.
- Company: Join Serco, a global leader in public services with a commitment to diversity.
- Benefits: Permanent role offering job stability, training, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working options and support for diverse candidates throughout the application process.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the justice system while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: No specific background needed; just a commitment to helping others and good communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Gloucester Crown Court, Longsmith St, Gloucester GL1 2TS
Permanent roles offering job stability & security
About The Role
As a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) at our court, you will be part of a team that ensures safe and secure escorting and custody services to detainees, focusing on their physical and mental wellbeing. During court proceedings you will be responsible for every aspect of detainee management until they are released or returned to custody.
Key Responsibilities
- Escorting defendants to and from courtrooms, cells, and other areas within the court, including accompanying them to the toilet to ensure security and safety, which may involve the use of handcuffs.
- Monitoring and supervising detainees while they are in the docks during court sessions, ensuring they remain secure and do not pose a risk to themselves or others.
- Maintaining discretion and confidentiality when privy to sensitive and confidential information discussed during court proceedings, and providing support to detainees while managing your own emotional wellbeing.
- Ensuring that detainees have access to food and drink throughout the day, catering to any dietary requirements or restrictions.
- Monitoring the mental and physical health of detainees, providing support and reporting any concerns to the appropriate authorities.
- Ensuring the safety and security of the court environment, including responding to incidents or emergencies that may arise and conducting thorough searches of property and individuals to prevent contraband from entering secure areas.
- Completing necessary paperwork and data entry accurately, including logging detainee movements, incidents, and any other relevant information.
- Working closely with other court staff, law enforcement, and legal professionals to ensure smooth and secure court operations.
Benefits
- Base Salary of £23,402 (35hrs per week).
- 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 seven years of service) plus Bank Holidays.
- Employee Assistance Programme, MIND, Simply Health Care and Dental Plans.
- Access to discounts on attractions, mobile phones, cinema, leisure, retail, and hospitality.
- A supportive team and culture that values diversity and inclusion.
What You Need to Do the Job
Our current PCOs come from a range of backgrounds – what matters is your commitment to making a difference. Ideally, you will have a current valid driver's license, be reasonably fit, and possess strong written and verbal communication skills. You will handle challenging situations with professionalism and care, ensuring justice is administered safely and securely.
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. Employment offers are subject to Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks with Enhanced DBS (Adult & Child Barring) and satisfactory employment references. All staff must undertake safeguarding training and adhere to the organisation’s safeguarding policies.
This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship under current UK Home Office rules, as it does not meet the required salary or skill level criteria.
Minimum eligibility for non‑UK nationals:
- Have at least two years remaining on your current visa.
- Have lived in the UK for at least one year, with a counter‑signatory from a recognised professional.
About Serco
Serco delivers essential public services worldwide in areas including defence, transport, justice, immigration, healthcare and citizen services. We are committed to redesigning and improving public services, with a focus on diversity, inclusion and belonging. We offer unlimited access to global employee networks such as SercoInspire (Gender), SercoEmbrace (Multicultural), SercoUnlimited (Disability), and In@Serco (LGBT & Networks).
Apply
Please click the apply button to complete your application. Applications are reviewed regularly; if the volume is high we may move the closing date forward, so we encourage early application. We are a Disability Confident Leader and hold the Gold Inclusive Employer Standard. Contact j&icareersUK@serco.com for assistance with your application.
Prisoner Custody Officer in Cheltenham employer: Serco
Serco is an excellent employer for those seeking a meaningful career as a Prisoner Custody Officer, offering job stability and security within the vital justice system. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, Serco fosters a supportive work culture that encourages employee growth through comprehensive training and collaboration with experienced colleagues. The role not only provides opportunities to make a positive impact on individuals' lives but also ensures a safe and secure working environment, making it an attractive choice for candidates passionate about public safety.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Prisoner Custody Officer in Cheltenham
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the role inside out! Research what a Prisoner Custody Officer does and understand the responsibilities. This will help you speak confidently during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in the position.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Since this role involves managing situations and interacting with detainees, being able to articulate your thoughts clearly is crucial. Try mock interviews with friends or family to get comfortable.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your commitment to helping others! Think of examples from your past experiences where you've demonstrated responsibility and professionalism. This will resonate well with the values of Serco and the role itself.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, keep an eye on the application deadlines, as we might close early if we receive a lot of applications.
We think you need these skills to ace Prisoner Custody Officer in Cheltenham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your experiences and what drives you to apply for the Prisoner Custody Officer role.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to tailor your application to the job description. Highlight your relevant skills and experiences that align with the responsibilities of a PCO. This shows us that you understand the role and are genuinely interested.
Keep It Clear and Concise:We appreciate clarity! Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use bullet points if necessary to make it easy for us to read and find the key information about your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and the application process there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Serco
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you understand the responsibilities of a Prisoner Custody Officer. Familiarise yourself with the key duties like escorting detainees and maintaining security. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a PCO, you'll need to communicate effectively with detainees and court staff. During the interview, practice clear and concise communication. You might even want to prepare examples of how you've successfully managed difficult conversations or situations in the past.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Safety
Safety is paramount in this role. Be ready to discuss how you would handle various scenarios that require vigilance and professionalism. Think about times when you've prioritised safety in previous roles or situations, and share those experiences.
✨Prepare for Role-Play Scenarios
Since the assessment process includes role-play, practice responding to potential scenarios you might face as a PCO. This could involve managing a challenging detainee or ensuring safety during a court session. The more prepared you are, the more confident you'll feel during the interview.
