Serco Plc
Prisoner Custody Officer
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Join Us as a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Bristol
Location Bristol Crown and Magistrates Court, BS1 1DA
Role Overview
Join Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS) and help keep the justice system safe and secure. This role offers job stability, clear progression opportunities, and the chance to make a meaningful difference.
Key Details
Salary and Progression
- Starting Salary: £24,596 (35 hours per week)
- From 1st September 2026: £25,555
- Annual salary progression:
- Year 2: £26,191
- Year 3: £26,684
- Year 4: £27,180
Other Working Terms
- Operates 24/7 across early and late shifts
- Flexible with unpredictable finish times
- Shifts are 12 weeks ahead, ensuring opportunity to plan
- Part-time may be considered, but must be full daily hours (cannot reduce daily hours)
Core Purpose: Keep people safe. Keep justice moving.
What the Role Involves
As a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO), you’ll:
- Escort detainees safely within the court, including transfers between courtrooms, cells, and facilities
- Supervise detainees during hearings to maintain order and security
- Manage sensitive situations with discretion and adherence to strict confidentiality protocols
- Support detainee welfare, including provision of food, drink, and care during proceedings
- Monitor behaviour and respond to safety risks or incidents
- Ensure detainees are accurately recorded and documented
- Collaborate with court staff and partners to ensure efficient operations
What You’ll Bring
Requirements for this role:
- Commitment to safeguarding the community and upholding justice—no specific background required
- receptive to a world of growth through:
- 5.5-week paid training course
- Ongoing mentorship and support from senior colleagues
- Essential Skills
- Full UK driving licence (category B/B1 preferred but not mandatory)
- Good physical fitness (suitable for the demands of the role)
- Strong written and verbal communication
- Ability to stay composed and decisive under pressure
- Conflict resolution and de-escalation skills
- High teamwork orientation, with strong adherence to processes
- Integrity and confidentiality in handling sensitive information
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Benefits
Work-Life Balance
- 20 days paid leave (rising to 25 days post-7 years), plus bank holidays
- Pension: Up to 6% of salary (2% employer/4% employee; Serco matches contributions)
Development and Support
- Structured 5.5-week training as well as ongoing learning opportunities
- Access to external qualifications, mentoring, and internal promotions
Wellbeing
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) + confidential mental health support from MIND
- Private health, cash plan, and dental insurance via Simply Health
- Discounts at Serco-run gyms and wellbeing resources
More Perks
- Discounts across major retailers (Merlin, cinema, leisure, retail, hospitality, mobile plans, etc.)
- Global Employee Networks at Serco:
- SercoInspire (Gender)
- SercoEmbrace (Multicultural)
- SercoUnlimited (Disability)
- In@Serco (LGBTQ+)
Recruitment Process
- Online application: Includes eligibility questions and assessments.
- Virtual Assessment
- Competency-based interview
- Short roleplay
- Written exercise
- Job offer & arrangement reminders after successful completion of eligibility checks.
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Eligibility Checks
All applicants must provide:
- Enhanced Level 2 Ministry of Justice security clearance evaluated via DBS check
- Satisfactory references
- Pass occupational health checks
Other hiring requirements:
- This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974
- Regular alcohol and drug testing
- Right to work in the UK with the following visa guidelines specific to residual qualifications:
- Visa holders must have at least two years remaining
- One year minimum residency in the UK (for required counter signatory checks)
- Completion of safeguarding training, with conscientious adherence to safeguarding policies
Serco: Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
At Serco, we believe in building a team that represents our values—performance and progress. We are proudly:
- Disability Confident Leader (assisting eligible candidates before job interviews)
- Gold Inclusive Employer Standard holders
Key Initiatives:
- Support fair recruitment via the Ban the Box policy
- Some exemptions may apply based on security clearance needs.
We offer flexible working discussions and adjustments at all stages of employment, including for caregivers and applicants impacted by additional factors. Reach out at j&icareersUK@serco.com for any further questions.
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Promoted roles have occasionally accelerated deadlines given high application volumes. Apply without delay to avoid disappointment.
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