Overview
Serco Limited
Permanent roles offering job stability & security
Working as a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS) is more than just a role—it’s an opportunity to be part of a professional team that plays a vital role in the justice system, ensuring safety and security every day. We offer:
- Base Salary of £26,026 (35hrs pw).
- Salary progression with annual base salary increments: year 2 £26,658; year 3 £27,260; year 4 £27,882.
- Pension (matched up to 6%), life insurance; 20 days annual leave (rising to 25 after 7 years’ service) plus Bank Holidays.
- A range of health and wellbeing benefits such as Employee Assistance Programme, MIND, Simply Health Care and Dental Plans and more.
- Discounts and exclusive deals including Merlin Attractions, Mobile Phone, Cinema, Leisure, Retail and Hospitality discounts and more.
- A supportive team and culture focused on diversity and inclusion.
We are operational 24/6 and you’ll cover various early and late shifts, 35hrs pw. Flexibility is key due to the nature of the role; there are a range of different working arrangements and additional hours. There will be days when your finishing time could be unpredictable, however we operate a rota basis (provided 12 weeks in advance) that allows you the flexibility to enjoy meaningful time off.
About the Role
As a PCO at our court, you’ll work as part of a team to provide safe and secure escorting and custody services to detainees, focusing on maintaining their physical and mental wellbeing. During court proceedings, you’ll be responsible for every aspect of detainee management until it’s time for them to return to custody or be released. Key duties include:
- Escorting defendants to and from courtrooms, cells, and other areas within the court, including accompanying them to the toilet to ensure security and safety. This may involve being handcuffed to the detainee.
- Monitoring and supervising detainees while they are in the docks during court sessions, ensuring they remain secure and do not pose a risk to themselves or others.
- Handling sensitive and confidential information discussed during court proceedings, maintaining discretion and confidentiality. Be prepared to listen to harrowing and distressing testimonies and evidence. Maintain professionalism and provide support to detainees while managing your own emotional wellbeing.
- Ensuring detainees have access to food and drink throughout the day, catering to any dietary requirements or restrictions.
- Monitoring the mental and physical health of detainees, providing support and reporting any concerns to the appropriate authorities.
- Ensuring the safety and security of the court environment, including responding to incidents or emergencies and conducting thorough searches of property and individuals to prevent contraband from entering secure areas.
- Completing necessary paperwork and data entry accurately, including logging detainee movements, incidents, and other relevant information.
- Working closely with other court staff, law enforcement, and legal professionals to ensure smooth and secure court operations.
What you need to do the job!
Our current PCOs come from diverse work and life experiences; what you’ve done before matters less than your commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. You’ll learn during a 5 1/2-week training course and via experience with our team.
- Ideally, you’ll have a current valid driver’s license, be reasonably fit, and have good written and verbal communication skills to manage and control situations.
- This role requires a high level of responsibility, vigilance, and the ability to handle challenging situations with professionalism and care. You will be an integral part of the judicial process, ensuring that justice is administered safely and securely.
- Roles may suit those with an interest in criminology or psychology.
Assessment Process
Briefing call to assess eligibility; Competency-based Virtual Interview; short role-play and written exercise.
Additional Information
- All roles are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, and all offers of employment are subject to Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks with Enhanced DBS (Adult & Child Barring) and satisfactory employment references.
- This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship under current UK Home Office rules. Candidates who already have a valid right to work in the UK must meet minimum eligibility criteria:
- Have at least two years remaining on your current visa.
- Have lived in the UK for at least one year, as vetting requires a counter-signatory from a recognised professional who has known you for that duration.
For general right-to-work guidance, please visit the UK Home Office website.
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