At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Custody Officer in ensuring a safe and secure environment for detainees.
- Company: Join Staffordshire Police, committed to equality and community representation.
- Benefits: Generous salary, pension scheme, flexible working, and health support.
- Other info: Comprehensive training provided, with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by treating detainees with dignity and respect.
- Qualifications: Full driving licence required; compassion and effective communication skills essential.
The predicted salary is between 33215 - 37676 £ per year.
About The Opportunity
Custody Detention Officer – Northern Area Custody Facility, Stoke on Trent, ST1 5NP and Southern Area Custody Facility, Watling Street, Stafford, ST19 5PR.
Salary: £33,215 – £37,676 (total with Shift and Weekend Working Allowances). Shift allowance +20%, weekend allowance 14.22%. Grade D salary £24,747 – £28,071.
Contract type: Permanent. Full driving licence required.
The main role of a CDO is to support the Custody Officer in providing a safe and secure custody environment, ensuring the rights and entitlements of detained persons are protected and upheld.
Duties:
- Conduct non‑intimate searches, examine and record detainee identity and possessions, take fingerprints and DNA samples, photographs, complete drug testing on arrest, and secure detainees in cells.
- Ensure safety and well‑being of detainees until transfer or release, provide bedding, food and offer support and reassurance.
- Make regular cell checks and maintain a sanitary environment.
- Administration of custody IT systems and preparation of detainees for court.
- Responsible for delivering a safe and secure environment for those detained in connection with a wide variety of criminal matters.
- Deal with people using effective communication, showing compassion and empathy while remaining calm in volatile situations.
- Treat detainees with dignity and respect; de‑escalate situations and use reasonable force only when necessary.
- Monitor cameras to ensure safety of high‑risk vulnerable people.
- Liaise with solicitors, family members and other partners working in custody.
Training:
Initial 4‑week training course followed by 3 weeks of mentoring with an experienced CDO, during which a competency portfolio is completed.
Benefits:
- Pension scheme – employer contribution 21.5% (Staffordshire Pension Fund).
- Generous holiday entitlement plus Bank Holidays.
- Flexible / agile working.
- Sick pay scheme.
- Fostering friendly policy.
- Family friendly policies – maternity, paternity, parental leave, adoption, disability leave and carers leave.
- Access to health and wellbeing support.
- Eye care vouchers.
- On‑site gyms.
- Staff associations.
- Reward and recognition.
- Blue light card.
- Training and development opportunities.
- Car lease scheme.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Free parking at selected sites.
- On‑site catering facilities.
- Access to staff networks.
- Union support.
- Financial products and services.
Equal Opportunities:
Staffordshire Police is fully supportive of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and strives to employ a workforce that represents the community we serve. Our vacancies are open to everyone and all appointments are made based on merit. We encourage and welcome applications from underrepresented groups, including Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, female, people with a disability, neurodivergent persons and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Residency eligibility: UK resident for the last three years consecutively for RV Level roles and five years for MV Level roles.
Closing date: 7th July 2026, midday. Interview dates: week commencing 27th July 2026. Course start date: January 2027.
Custody Detention Officer in Stafford employer: Staffordshire Police
Staffordshire Police is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment for Custody Detention Officers at our Northern and Southern Area Custody Facilities. With a strong focus on employee well-being, generous benefits including a substantial pension scheme, flexible working options, and comprehensive training and development opportunities, we empower our staff to thrive while making a meaningful impact in the community. Join us to be part of a dedicated team that values compassion, respect, and professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Custody Detention Officer in Stafford
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the role inside out! Familiarise yourself with the duties of a Custody Detention Officer, like conducting searches and ensuring detainee safety. This will help you shine during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! As a CDO, you'll need to deal with all sorts of people, so being able to communicate effectively and empathetically is key. Try role-playing scenarios with friends or family to build your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former Custody Detention Officers on LinkedIn or local community groups. They can provide insider tips and might even give you a heads-up about job openings.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it super easy for you to submit your application. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team. Don't forget to follow up after applying; a little persistence goes a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Custody Detention Officer in Stafford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of a Custody Detention Officer. We want to see how you can contribute to creating a safe and secure environment for detainees.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Effective communication is key in this role, so be sure to demonstrate your ability to handle sensitive situations with empathy and respect. Use examples from your past experiences to illustrate how you've managed challenging interactions.
Highlight Relevant Experience:If you've got experience in law enforcement, security, or any role that involves working with vulnerable individuals, make it shine! We love seeing how your background can bring value to our team.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Staffordshire Police
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Make sure you understand the responsibilities of a Custody Detention Officer. Familiarise yourself with the duties listed in the job description, such as conducting searches and ensuring detainee safety. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this role, especially when dealing with detainees. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully communicated in challenging situations. Highlight your ability to remain calm and empathetic, as these traits are crucial for a Custody Detention Officer.
✨Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Abilities
Be ready to discuss how you would handle various scenarios that may arise in custody. Think about times when you've had to de-escalate a situation or make quick decisions under pressure. This will show the interviewers that you can think on your feet and prioritise safety.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the training process, team dynamics, or how the organisation supports its staff. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the workplace aligns with your values and expectations.
