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- Tasks: Ensure safety and order while supporting rehabilitation in a dynamic prison environment.
- Company: Join Sodexo, a diverse and inclusive workplace committed to transforming lives.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, free meals, gym access, and comprehensive training.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on lives while developing your skills in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: No specific experience required; just bring resilience, empathy, and strong communication skills.
- Other info: Applicants must be 18+; full security clearance checks apply.
The predicted salary is between 32368 - 32368 £ per year.
Prison Custody Officer (PCO) – HMP Peterborough
Sodexo Peterborough, England, United Kingdom
Job Introduction: 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, 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: Your Responsibilities Will Include
- 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.
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 £29,305.56 with a market forces allowance of £1937.26 (total £31,242.82 per annum)
- 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 more
We’re an inclusive workplace, where everyone is welcome, everyone can be natural, and everyone can be the best versions of themselves.
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Prison Custody Officer (PCO) - HMP Peterborough employer: Sodexo
Contact Detail:
Sodexo Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Prison Custody Officer (PCO) - HMP Peterborough
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges faced by Prison Custody Officers. Understanding the dynamics of prison life and the importance of rehabilitation can help you demonstrate your commitment to the role during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any relevant experience you have in high-pressure environments, such as roles in the Armed Forces or social care. This will show that you possess the resilience and calmness under pressure that is crucial for a PCO.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your conflict resolution skills in detail. Think of examples where you've successfully de-escalated a tense situation, as this is a key quality they are looking for in candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former Prison Custody Officers if possible. They can provide insights into the role and the application process, which can give you an edge when it comes to interviews.
We think you need these skills to ace Prison Custody Officer (PCO) - HMP Peterborough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, take time to thoroughly read the job description for the Prison Custody Officer position. Understand the key responsibilities and required behaviours, such as resilience, empathy, and effective communication.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the role. Emphasise any previous work in challenging environments or roles that required strong interpersonal skills, as these will be crucial for a Prison Custody Officer.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for the role and your understanding of the challenges faced by Prison Custody Officers. Use specific examples from your past experiences to demonstrate how you embody the qualities they are looking for.
Prepare for the Assessment Centre: Once your application is submitted, prepare for the assessment centre by practising conflict resolution scenarios and teamwork exercises. Familiarise yourself with common interview questions related to the role and think about how you would respond to challenging situations.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sodexo
✨Show Your Resilience
During the interview, be prepared to discuss situations where you've had to remain calm under pressure. Share specific examples that highlight your ability to handle stressful or volatile situations effectively.
✨Demonstrate Empathy
Emphasise your understanding of the importance of treating everyone with dignity and respect. Be ready to talk about how you build rapport and maintain authority through empathy in challenging environments.
✨Highlight Teamwork Skills
Since teamwork is crucial in this role, provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in previous positions. Discuss how you contribute to a supportive work environment and ensure operational efficiency.
✨Prepare for Conflict Scenarios
Expect questions about conflict resolution. Prepare to explain your approach to de-escalating disputes and handling difficult conversations. Use real-life examples to illustrate your conflict resolution skills.