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- Tasks: Support the welfare and security of detainees while working closely with police officers.
- Company: Join South Yorkshire Police, a team committed to fairness, integrity, and trust.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and a good level of fitness are essential.
- Other info: Access to development courses and a supportive team culture.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
Location: Sheffield & Doncaster
Salary: £28,914 - £31,749 (plus 20% shift allowance and weekend working)
Hours: 37
Contract Type: Permanent
In this role you assist in the detention and welfare of convicted or other prisoners and their property under the direction of the police officer in charge.
Key Responsibilities
- Be responsible for the security, safety, property, and welfare needs of the detained persons.
- Ensure that detained persons are treated in accordance with the codes of practice issued under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984.
- Undertake periodic safety checks of detained persons as directed by the Custody Officer.
- When instructed by the Custody Sergeant, undertake the necessary process to book detainee into Custody.
- Undertake dynamic risk assessments and record all relevant information in the appropriate custody record.
- Use IT appropriately to input information.
- Take VIPER ID Captures, fingerprints, photographs and DNA from detained persons as directed by the Custody Officer.
- Conduct drug testing of detained persons as directed by the Custody Officer and complete the associated administrative procedures.
- Restrain detained persons to prevent injury to themselves, Police Officers or any other person and to prevent escape or unlawful damage to property.
- Administer first aid immediately when required and inform the Custody Officer if any detained person suffers any injury or illness.
- Arrange for the issuing of medication to detained persons prescribed by the medical practitioner under the direction of the Custody Officer.
- Arrange for the fumigation or laundering of dirty bedding to maintain high standards of hygiene.
- Ensure compliance with Health and Safety guidance.
Skills and Experience
- Good communication skills to effectively communicate with detainees, officers, solicitors and other partners.
- Experience of working with official records.
- Experience of dealing with the public and understanding social, cultural, and racial differences.
- General good health and fitness.
- Confidence to perform own role without unnecessary support and remain calm in difficult situations.
What We Offer
- A highly competitive salary and access to a generous pension scheme.
- Generous annual leave allowance.
- A wide range of family friendly policies including enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption leave.
- Flexible working arrangements including flexi-time and hybrid working.
- A transparent and collaborative team culture underpinned by our core values of Fairness, Integrity & Trust.
- Comprehensive range of development and leadership courses.
- Employee Assistance Programme offering confidential support and advice.
- Flexible lifestyle benefits such as Blue Light Card, Company Shop, Cycle to work scheme.
- Membership to the Sports and Social Club.
- Access to a wide range of staff support groups and networks.
Eligibility
Applicants must meet the minimum requirement checkable history criteria, which includes a minimum checkable history of 3 years.
Appearance & Standards
South Yorkshire Police is committed to maintaining professional standards in dress and appearance. Tattoos will be reviewed as part of the recruitment and selection process.
Smarter Ways Of Working
This role has been evaluated as a fixed role, applicable when the work is mostly required to be undertaken at a fixed single place of work.
Contact Details
For further information about the role, please contact Chief Inspector Katie Rowland-Wilson via email: Katie.Rowland-Wilson@southyorkshire.police.uk
Closing Date
8th February 2026
Recruitment Timeline
Shortlisting: 9th - 13th February 2026
Interviews: 23rd February - 6th March 2026
Start date: 16th June 2026
Detention Officer employer: South Yorkshire Police
Contact Detail:
South Yorkshire Police Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Detention Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the role inside out! Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities and skills mentioned in the job description. This will help you speak confidently about how your experience aligns with what they're looking for.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former Detention Officers on LinkedIn or through local community groups. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to the role. Think about scenarios where you've demonstrated good communication skills or handled difficult situations, as these are crucial for this position.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we often have additional resources and tips available there to help you stand out.
We think you need these skills to ace Detention Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Skills: Make sure to highlight your communication skills and experience with official records in your application. We want to see how you can handle the responsibilities of a Detention Officer, so be specific about your past experiences!
Be Yourself: Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through! We value fairness, integrity, and trust, so share examples that reflect these values in your application. Authenticity goes a long way with us.
Follow the Guidelines: Check out the application guidance and tips provided on our website. Following the instructions closely will help ensure your application stands out and meets all the necessary criteria.
Apply Online: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s quick and easy, and you’ll have all the information you need right at your fingertips!
How to prepare for a job interview at South Yorkshire Police
✨Know Your Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Detention Officer. Familiarise yourself with the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984, as well as the key duties like conducting safety checks and managing detainee welfare. This knowledge will help you answer questions confidently.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since good communication is crucial in this role, prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated in past situations. Think about times when you dealt with the public or worked with diverse groups, and be ready to discuss these experiences during the interview.
✨Demonstrate Calmness Under Pressure
Interviews for this position may include scenario-based questions to assess your ability to remain calm in difficult situations. Prepare by thinking of specific instances where you managed stress or conflict effectively, and be ready to share those stories.
✨Dress Professionally
While South Yorkshire Police allows some self-expression, it's important to maintain a professional appearance for your interview. Dress smartly to convey that you take the opportunity seriously and respect the organisation's standards.
