At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain safety and security while supporting rehabilitation in a prison environment.
- Company: Join a diverse and inclusive team at HMP Forest Bank.
- 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 32863 - 34341 € 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 £32,863.57 per annum, increasing after 12 months to £34,341.41, with a further salary increase after 4 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!
Apply now to embark on this rewarding journey as a Prison Custody Officer.
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.
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 Forest Bank employer: Sodexo Group
At HMP Forest Bank, 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 for overtime. Join us to make a meaningful impact in the community while enjoying benefits such as free meals, access to an on-site gym, and a competitive salary package.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Prison Custody Officer (PCO) - HMP Forest Bank
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the role inside out! Research what being a Prison Custody Officer really involves. Understanding the responsibilities and challenges will help you shine during interviews and assessments.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! As a PCO, you'll need to connect with people from all walks of life. Role-play scenarios with friends or family to build your confidence in handling tough conversations.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your teamwork spirit! Highlight any experiences where you've worked closely with others to achieve a common goal. This role is all about collaboration, so let that shine through in your discussions.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and the company right there!
We think you need these skills to ace Prison Custody Officer (PCO) - HMP Forest Bank
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to know who you are beyond your qualifications. Share your experiences and what drives you to apply for the Prison Custody Officer role.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the responsibilities of a PCO. Use examples that showcase your ability to handle pressure, communicate effectively, and work as part of a team.
Check Your Details:Before hitting that submit button, double-check your application for any typos or errors. A polished application shows attention to detail, which is super important in this role. We want to see that you care about your application!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our official 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 our company there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sodexo Group
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Prison Custody Officer. Familiarise yourself with the key duties like maintaining security, supervising routines, and supporting rehabilitation initiatives. This knowledge will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your People Skills
As a PCO, you'll be working closely with individuals from various backgrounds. During the interview, highlight your strong communication skills and ability to build respectful relationships. Share examples from your past experiences where you've demonstrated empathy, conflict resolution, or teamwork, as these traits are crucial for success in this role.
✨Stay Calm Under Pressure
The interview may include scenario-based questions to assess how you handle high-pressure situations. Practice responding to these types of questions by staying calm and composed. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, showcasing your resilience and ability to manage stress effectively.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, take the opportunity to ask insightful questions about the team dynamics, training programmes, or the challenges faced by PCOs. This not only shows your enthusiasm for the position but also helps you gauge if the environment aligns with your values and career goals.
