Prison Custody Officer at HMP Bronzefield in Ashford

Please note: This role is not eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route in line with current UK immigration rules.

SECURE THE PRESENT, SHAPE THE FUTURE – Transform Lives as a Prison Custody Officer. As a Prison Custody Officer at HMP Bronzefield, you will play a vital role in creating a safe, supportive, and structured environment for women in custody. This is more than just a job – it’s a meaningful opportunity to support rehabilitation, build positive relationships, and help individuals move towards a better future. Working in the largest women’s prison in Europe, you will be part of a team that makes a real difference every day.

A Unique Women’s Environment. As the largest women’s prison in Europe, HMP Bronzefield offers a unique and rewarding working environment. We welcome applications from both women and men for this position. However, as this role is based within a female prison and our current workforce is approximately 60/40, we are actively encouraging women to apply to help us continue building a balanced and representative team. This approach is in line with the Equality Act 2010, which allows positive action where there is under-representation within a particular environment. All appointments are made on merit, and we remain committed to fair, open, and inclusive recruitment practices.

What You’ll Do. Your responsibilities will include:

• Creating a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for those in custody
• Supporting daily routines, activities, and wellbeing
• Escorting individuals securely within and outside the facility
• Responding calmly and professionally to challenging or high-pressure situations
• Encouraging positive behaviour and supporting rehabilitation
• Building constructive, professional relationships based on trust, fairness, and consistency
• Acting as a positive role model and providing encouragement where needed

Who We’re Looking For. There’s no such thing as a typical Prison Custody Officer. Our team includes people from all walks of life – whether you’re a parent, carer, former teacher, retail worker, or simply someone who enjoys working with people and making a difference. Many of our officers are women who bring strong communication skills, empathy, and resilience to the role – qualities that are essential in a women’s prison environment. You don’t need previous experience in security or the prison service. Skills from roles such as care, education, customer service, or parenting are highly transferable. If you’re someone who can remain calm, treat others with respect, and build positive relationships, we would encourage you to apply – even if you’re not sure you meet every requirement.

As part of the recruitment process, you will be invited to attend an assessment centre made up of three stages:

• Written English and maths assessments
• Scenario-based exercises
• Interview

We strongly encourage candidates to prepare in advance. Assessment Centre Date: 23rd & 24th June, Please only apply if you are available to attend.

Teamwork Matters. Teamwork is at the heart of everything we do. You’ll work closely with colleagues to maintain a safe and supportive environment for staff, visitors, and those in custody. A strong sense of teamwork, trust, and communication is essential to success in this role.

The Behaviours That Make a Great Officer. To thrive in this role, you’ll demonstrate:

• Calm Under Pressure – Staying composed in challenging situations
• Empathy & Respect – Treating everyone with dignity
• Strong Ethics – Acting with fairness and integrity
• Resilience & Adaptability – Remaining effective in a dynamic environment
• Effective Communication – Listening and communicating clearly
• Conflict Resolution – Using de-escalation techniques
• Teamwork – Supporting colleagues and working collaboratively
• Vigilance – Staying alert and aware

Training and Development. No previous experience is required. You’ll receive a comprehensive 8-week training programme, including:

• Classroom and practical learning
• Communication and conflict resolution training
• Shadowing experienced officers
• Ongoing development and career progression opportunities

Why Join Us at HMP Bronzefield? Many people choose this role because it offers:

• A meaningful career where you can make a real difference
• A supportive and inclusive team environment
• Opportunities to build confidence and develop new skills
• Clear career progression pathways
• Job stability and long-term development

Eligibility Criteria. To apply, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old at the start of employment
• Meet required eyesight standards (with or without corrective lenses)
• Have adequate hearing (without hearing aids for operational safety reasons)
• Tattoos must not be offensive, discriminatory, or intimidating
• Facial tattoos are generally not permitted unless for cultural, religious, or medical reasons

What We Offer. Starting salary 35,574.59 + 3729.24 London Weighting. Annual increases over the first 5 years. Free meals and parking. Access to on-site gym and subsidised membership. Overtime opportunities (subject to availability). Comprehensive training and career development. Life assurance. BUPA healthcare. Pension scheme and additional benefits. We are committed to supporting your wellbeing both in and outside of work.

Application Process. To move forward with your application, a pre-screening process will be completed shortly after submission. Please check your inbox (and spam folder). You will then be invited to attend an assessment centre. All offers are subject to full security clearance checks.

Important Information. This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship.