Serco Plc
Detention Custody Officer-PEI
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Detention Custody Officer and Physical Education Instructor
Location: Yarl's Wood Immigration Removal Centre, MK44 2FQ
Schedule: Full-time, Permanent, Variety of Shift Patterns
Salary: £31,000 per annum, rising to £32,000 following successful completion of probation and £35,000 after 2 years' service.
Based on the success profile, this role combines detention custody duties with the delivery of structured physical activities and wellbeing programmes.
This isn't just a security role. It's a role that changes lives.
As a Detention Custody Officer and Physical Education Instructor, you'll help create a safe, respectful and supportive environment for people going through challenging circumstances.
Every day is different. One moment you could be supporting residents within the centre, the next you could be leading physical activities, encouraging participation, promoting wellbeing and helping individuals build confidence through sport and recreation.
This is a role for people who stay calm under pressure, communicate with empathy and genuinely want to make a positive difference.
Why this role matters
- You help maintain a safe and secure environment for residents, colleagues and visitors.
- You treat everyone with dignity, fairness and respect.
- You promote positive behaviour and wellbeing through physical activity.
- You support people from diverse cultures and backgrounds.
- You play an important role in creating a positive and supportive centre environment.
What you'll actually do
As a DCO-PEI, you'll combine security, welfare and physical education responsibilities, including:
- Supervising residents and maintaining safety and security across the centre.
- Delivering structured fitness, sports and recreational activities.
- Encouraging participation and promoting physical and mental wellbeing.
- Building positive, professional relationships with residents.
- Responding to incidents calmly and professionally.
- Supporting activities, education, employment and wider centre regimes.
- Organising sports events, competitions and wellbeing initiatives.
- Completing reports and documentation accurately.
- Working collaboratively with colleagues to support resident welfare and centre operations.
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You're made for this if you are...
- Calm and resilient under pressure.
- Confident communicating with a wide range of people.
- Passionate about health, fitness and encouraging positive participation.
- Able to manage challenging situations professionally.
- Respectful of people from all cultures, backgrounds and experiences.
- A strong team player who enjoys helping others succeed.
Essential requirements
- NVQ Level 2 Fitness Instructor qualification (or equivalent).
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook.
- Experience working in a people-focused environment.
- A commitment to delivering excellent customer service.
- The ability to remain professional, composed and resilient.
What shifts look like
- Average 40 hours per week
- Mixture of day and night shifts
- Structured rota pattern
- Overtime opportunities may be available
- Full attendance required during initial training period
What you'll get
Training & Development
- Fully paid 7-week initial training programme
- Specialist training in detention custody, conflict management and resident welfare
- Physical education and activity delivery training
- Ongoing professional development opportunities
- Clear progression pathways into operational, specialist and leadership roles
Benefits
- 224 hours annual leave (including bank holidays)
- Matched pension contributions up to 6%
- Free on-site parking
- Subsidised meals and one free meal per shift
- Full uniform provided
- Employee discounts and Blue Light Card eligibility
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Career development opportunities across Serco
What we're looking for
- Customer focus and service delivery
- Effective communication
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Good judgement and problem solving
- Personal accountability
- Adaptability and resilience
- Respect for diversity and inclusion
- Commitment to continuous learning and development
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Application process
- Online application
- Virtual interview via Microsoft Teams
- Assessment Day including practical activities and centre tour
- Pre-employment checks and vetting
- Seven-week training programme
Eligibility and checks (important)
To be considered, you must:
- Have the right to work in the UK (visa sponsorship is not available)
- Typically have at least 3 years' UK residency
- Be able to obtain Home Office Counter Terrorist Check (CTC) clearance
- Pass an Enhanced DBS check including Adult and Child Barred List checks
- Provide 5 years of checkable employment and address history
Start a career where fitness, wellbeing and people come together.
Apply today and help make a difference at Yarl's Wood Immigration Removal Centre.
A little bit about us:
At Serco, everyone plays a vital part in delivering essential public services that make a real difference. As a global team of 50,000 people across Defence, Transport, Justice, Immigration, Healthcare, Leisure and Citizen Services, we’re united by a shared purpose: to improve the services that communities rely on. Guided by our values of Trust, Care, Innovation and Pride, our people make meaningful impact, every single day.
Our inclusive recruitment commitment:
We prioritise your skills and potential. As a Disability Confident Leader, a top Great British Employer of Veterans, and a Gold Inclusive Employer Standard holder, we champion equal opportunities for all. We offer flexible and hybrid working where possible and make reasonable adjustments throughout recruitment and employment.
Guaranteed Interview Scheme:
Applicants with disabilities, veterans and people with convictions, who meet the minimum job criteria, are guaranteed an interview. Simply opt into the relevant scheme on the application form.
Ban The Box:
We also support fair access for those with unspent criminal convictions through our ‘Ban the Box’ pledge (some roles may have security exemptions).
For support with your application, please contact j&icareersUK@serco.com.
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