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Detention Officer
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Location
Devon and Cornwall Police based at the following location(s): Exeter Police Station, Camborne, Plymouth, Charles Cross, Torquay
Salary
Starts at £27,204 rising by yearly increments to a maximum of £29,859 per annum
Vacancy Type
Permanent, Full Time (37 hours per week)
Closing Date
27th of August 2026
About The Role
Are you looking for a new challenging yet rewarding role where you can make a real difference? Do you thrive in a fast-paced environment and have the resilience to handle unpredictable situations? If so, a role as a Detention Officer could be your next career move
As a Detention Officer, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and welfare of individuals in custody while supporting operational policing. This is a unique opportunity to work at the heart of our criminal justice system, managing detainees with professionalism, integrity, and compassion.
What You'll Be Doing
- Ensuring all necessary records are accurately maintained.
- Carrying out welfare checks and responding to detainee needs in accordance with regulations.
- Managing conflict and de-escalating situations wherever possible. Physically restraining individuals where necessary to ensure your safety, the safety of your colleagues and the public.
- Assisting custody officers in risk assessments and maintaining a secure environment.
- Conducting searches and handling property in line with procedures.
- Working closely with officers and partner agencies to uphold detainee rights and well-being.
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What We're Looking For
- Physically fit individuals who have the fitness to undertake and pass the mandatory Public and Personal Safety Training (PPST) as part of initial training and on an annual basis thereafter. This is a pass/fail element of the training course which may mean employment could be terminated through the appropriate Force process. Please ensure you are physically fit for this role.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- The ability to remain calm and professional in challenging situations.
- Attention to detail and the ability to follow procedures precisely.
- A team player who can also take initiative when required.
Why Join Us?
- Be part of a dedicated team making a tangible impact on policing.
- A role that offers variety: no two days are the same.
- Training and development opportunities to support your progression.
What You Get If You Join Us
- A competitive salary with yearly increments.
- 25 days a year leave entitlement, with an increase to 30 days after 5 years continuous employment, plus bank holidays (pro-rata for part-time workers).
- Access to heavily subsidized gym membership that will provide you access to police site gyms throughout the counties.
- Access to the Blue Light Card Scheme for discounts and services (requires a one-off payment of £5).
- Company sick pay.
- Competitive local government pension scheme.
- Job-related equipment, as required.
- Free onsite parking at many police sites throughout the counties.
- Access to Group insurance scheme (via salary sacrifice scheme).
- Support networks, free Employees Assistance Programme, Occupational Health and wellbeing services.
- Development and training opportunities.
- Supportive and flexible training plan, including regular check-ins throughout your initial period of joining us to ensure you are up to speed with the role and getting the support you need.
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Candidates who are successful through the recruitment process will be required to undertake a mandatory 6-week custody course, which will commence on Monday 9th November 2026 until Friday 18th December 2026 and will be based at Middlemoor Police Headquarters, Exeter, EX2 7HQ regardless of your base station.
INTERVIEW: Interviews will be week commencing 7th September 2026.
If you feel you are a suitable candidate and would like to apply, please follow the application instructions provided.
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