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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure safety and security of detainees during court proceedings.
- Company: Join Serco, a leader in justice system support.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension, health support, and discounts on attractions.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the justice system while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Valid driver’s licence and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Inclusive culture with opportunities for professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 23402 - 24890 £ per year.
Join Serco as a Prisoner Custody Officer at Sevenoaks Magistrates Court, Morewood Close, London Rd, Sevenoaks TN13 2HU. Permanent role offering job stability & security.
Role Overview
As a PCO in PECS, you will be part of a professional team ensuring safety and security in the justice system. You will provide safe and secure escorting and custody services to detainees through court proceedings.
Benefits
- Base Salary £23,402 (35hrs pw) with annual 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) plus bank holidays.
- Health and wellbeing support: Employee Assistance Programme, MIND, Simply Health Care, and dental plans.
- Discounts on attractions, mobile phones, cinema, leisure, retail, hospitality.
- Supportive, inclusive culture recognising diversity.
Key Responsibilities
- Escort defendants to and from courtrooms, cells, and other areas, including toilets.
- Monitor detainees in the docks during court sessions, ensuring security.
- Maintain discretion and confidentiality regarding sensitive court information.
- Ensure detainees receive food, drink, and meet dietary needs.
- Monitor mental and physical health of detainees and report concerns.
- Respond to incidents or emergencies, conduct searches to prevent contraband.
- Accurately complete paperwork and data entry, logging movements and incidents.
- Collaborate closely with court staff, law enforcement, and legal professionals.
Qualifications
- Current valid driver’s licence.
- Reasonably fit with good written and verbal communication skills.
- High level of responsibility, vigilance, and ability to handle challenging situations with professionalism and care.
Assessment Process
Briefing call → Competency‑based virtual interview → Short role‑play and written exercise.
Right‑to‑Work & Eligibility
Roles exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Offers subject to Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks with Enhanced DBS (Adult & Child Barring). Not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship under current rules; requires valid UK right‑to‑work.
Additional Information
All staff must safeguard children and vulnerable young adults. Post holder will undertake appropriate safeguarding training and work within Serco's safeguarding policies.
Prisoner Custody Officer in Sevenoaks employer: Serco
Contact Detail:
Serco Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Prisoner Custody Officer in Sevenoaks
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the role inside out! Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities of a Prisoner Custody Officer. This way, when you get that interview, you can show off your knowledge and passion for keeping things safe and secure in the justice system.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Before your interview, do some mock interviews with friends or family. Focus on those competency-based questions and think about how your experiences relate to the key responsibilities of the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former Prisoner Custody Officers on LinkedIn. They can give you insider tips and maybe even help you get your foot in the door. Plus, it shows you're serious about the role!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and take the initiative to reach out directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Prisoner Custody Officer in Sevenoaks
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Prisoner Custody Officer role. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that match the job description, like communication and vigilance. We want to see how you fit into our team!
Showcase Your Skills: In your written application, emphasise your ability to handle challenging situations with professionalism. Use examples from your past experiences to demonstrate your problem-solving skills and how you maintain discretion and confidentiality.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your writing clear and to the point. Avoid jargon and make sure your application is easy to read. We appreciate straightforward communication, so make it easy for us to see why you’re a great fit for the role!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details directly. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at Serco!
How to prepare for a job interview at Serco
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Prisoner Custody Officer. Familiarise yourself with the key tasks like escorting detainees and maintaining security in court. 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, court staff, and law enforcement. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've demonstrated strong verbal and written communication skills. This will highlight your ability to handle challenging situations with professionalism.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect competency-based questions during the interview. Think about how you would respond to various scenarios, such as managing a difficult detainee or handling an emergency situation. Practising these responses will help you articulate your thought process clearly during the interview.
✨Emphasise Your Vigilance and Responsibility
The role requires a high level of vigilance and responsibility. Be ready to discuss times when you've had to be particularly observant or responsible in previous roles. This will demonstrate your suitability for ensuring the safety and security of detainees in a court setting.
