At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain safety and security while supporting rehabilitation in a prison environment.
- Company: Join a diverse and inclusive team at HMP Altcourse.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, free meals, gym access, and comprehensive training.
- Other info: Enjoy personal growth and career progression in a meaningful role.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives and contribute to community safety.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just bring your empathy and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 31216 - 31216 £ per year.
SECURE THE PRESENT, SHAPE THE FUTURE - Transform Lives as a Prison Custody Officer! As a Prison Custody Officer, you'll play a crucial role in maintaining safety, security, and order within our prison facilities. This is more than just a job - it's a meaningful opportunity to support rehabilitation, ensure justice, and contribute to the wider community.
What You'll Do
- Maintaining a secure and disciplined prison environment
- Supervising daily routines, prisoner movements, and scheduled activities
- Escorting prisoners securely within and outside the facility
- Responding calmly and professionally to challenging or high-pressure situations
- Supporting rehabilitation initiatives and encouraging positive behaviours
- Building respectful, professional relationships with prisoners to promote a safer, more supportive atmosphere
Who We're Looking For
There's no such thing as a typical prison officer. Our team is made up of people from all walks of life - whether you're a parent, former teacher, retail worker, member of the armed forces, or simply someone who thrives on helping others. Whatever your background, if you're a natural people person with strong communication skills, self-confidence, empathy, and resilience, we want to hear from you. You'll be working with individuals who may be at the lowest point in their lives. No matter the challenge, you'll be expected to build constructive, positive, and professional relationships based on fairness, consistency, and respect.
Teamwork Matters
Teamwork plays a vital role in this environment. You'll need to be fully committed to supporting your colleagues and understand the importance of acting as one team to keep the prison safe - for staff, visitors, and prisoners alike.
The Behaviours That Make a Great Officer
- Calm Under Pressure - Manage high-stress or unpredictable situations with a level head
- Empathy & Respect - Treat everyone with dignity, regardless of their circumstances
- Strong Ethics - Maintain fairness, professionalism, and integrity at all times
- Resilience & Adaptability - Stay composed and effective, even when the job gets tough
- Effective Communication - Listen actively and speak clearly and confidently
- Conflict Resolution - Use de-escalation techniques to manage tension and disputes
- Teamwork - Collaborate closely with colleagues for the safety and success of all
- Vigilance - Remain observant, alert, and responsive to potential risks
Training and Development
You don't need prior experience to apply. You'll receive a comprehensive 8-week training programme, delivered locally, to fully prepare you for the role. This includes:
- Classroom and practical learning
- Conflict resolution and communication training
- Shadowing experienced officers
- Continued development and support throughout your career
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for a position as a Prison Officer, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 18 years of age at the time your employment begins
- Meet the required eyesight standards in both eyes, with or without corrective lenses
- Have an adequate level of hearing without the use of hearing aids, for safety reasons during training and operational duties
- Tattoos are permitted, including those that are visible, but must not be offensive, discriminatory, violent, or intimidating. Facial tattoos are generally not allowed, except where they are for cultural, religious, or medical reasons
A Role That Offers More
This role provides opportunities for personal growth, career progression, and the satisfaction of knowing your work truly matters. You'll witness change first-hand and play a key part in supporting rehabilitation and community safety.
What We Offer:
- Starting salary £31,216.80 Per Annum, with annual increases over initial 5 years' service
- Free meals (if applicable) and parking
- Access to our on-site gym and subsidised gym membership
- Opportunity to earn overtime (subject to availability)
- Comprehensive paid training and progression opportunities
- Life assurance
- BUPA healthcare
- Pension schemes and much more!
Please see the benefits guide attached which outlines all of Sodexo's excellent benefits! Apply now to embark on this rewarding journey as a Prison Custody Officer.
Interested in seeing what it's like to work in one of our prisons? Click the link to learn more- Working in our prisons.
Application
To move forward with your application, we'll need to complete a pre-screening process within a few days of your submission. You'll receive an email with instructions on how to do this - please be sure to check your junk or spam folder in case it lands there. You will then be invited to participate in an assessment centre. All offers are subject to full security clearance checks. Please note that we are unable to offer sponsorship for this position.
About The Company
We're all about building a workplace for the future. We believe in equal opportunities and celebrate diversity. We're an inclusive workplace, where everyone is welcome, everyone can be natural, and everyone can be the best versions of themselves.
Prison Custody Officer (PCO) - HMP Altcourse employer: Sodexo Group
At HMP Altcourse, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values diversity and inclusivity. Our supportive work culture fosters personal growth and career progression, with comprehensive training programmes and opportunities to make a real difference in the lives of others. With competitive salaries, excellent benefits including free meals and access to on-site facilities, and a commitment to teamwork, we invite you to join us in shaping a safer future for our community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Prison Custody Officer (PCO) - HMP Altcourse
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Sodexo Group, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Sodexo Group and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Prison Custody Officer (PCO) - HMP Altcourse
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Sodexo Group and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sodexo Group
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Sodexo Group, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Sodexo Group.
