Serco Plc
Prisoner Custody Officer
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Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS)
Location
Truro, TR1 2PB
About the Role
Join us as a PCO in our Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS) team, where you’ll play a vital role in ensuring the justice system runs smoothly and securely.
You’ll enjoy job security, stability, plus additional benefits including:
- Salary: £24,596 (35hrs per week), increasing to £25,555 from 1st September 2026
- Clear progression: Year 2 (£26,191), Year 3 (£26,684), Year 4 (£27,180)
Our services operate 24/7, with shifts covering early and late rotas. Finishing times may vary and occasional extra work could be required to meet operational demands. Shifts are set on a 12-week rota, but flexibility is essential as reduced daily hours are not available.
"Keep people safe. Keep justice moving."
Key Responsibilities
As a PCO, you’ll work collaboratively as part of a team to provide safe and secure escorting and detention services, ensuring detainees’ welfare during court proceedings.
Your duties will include, but are not limited to:
- Escorting detainees within court premises (e.g., to courtrooms, cells, and facilities)
- Supervising detainees during hearings while maintaining safety and security
- Managing sensitive situations while adhering to strict confidentiality protocols
- Supporting detainee well-being (access to food, drink, and regular checks)
- Monitoring behaviour and responding to incidents or risks
- Conducting thorough searches to maintain security
- Completing accurate documentation and reporting
- Collaborating with court staff and partners for efficient operations
Requirements
Successful candidates will come from diverse backgrounds, though certain criteria are essential for this role:
- Full UK driving licence (Category B/B1) – Highly desirable
- Good physical fitness to meet the demanding nature of the role
- Strong communication skills (written and verbal)
- Ability to stay composed under pressure and make quick decisions
- Experience in managing behaviour and de-escalating conflict
- Strong team player mentality with an ability to follow procedures accurately
- High professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to maintaining confidentiality
Training and Ongoing Support
All PCOs receive:
- A free paid 5.5-week training course
- Mentorship from experienced colleagues
- Ongoing learning and development opportunities
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Benefits
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Holidays | 20 days (attaining 25 after 7 years’ service) + bank holidays (pro-rated). |
| Pension | Up to 6% contributory scheme, matched by Serco |
| Training & Development | Full induction training and access to internal courses, certifications, and mentoring. Strong internal career progression system is in place. |
| Health & Wellbeing | |
| • Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) | |
| • Partnered support from MIND | |
| • Simply Health cash and dental plans | |
| • Access to wellbeing resources | |
| • Discounts on Serco-run gym memberships. | |
| Discounts | Savings on issues ranging from mergers and retail (Merlin Attractions, laptops, mobile plans, cinema and leisure). |
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Recruitment Process
The recruitment journey comprises the following stages:
- Online application: Includes an eligibility check and assessment exercises.
- Virtual assessment:
- A competency-based interview (conducted remotely).
- A short roleplay exercise.
- A written assignment.
- Eligibility check:
- Right-to-work verification and enhanced criminal background checks (DBS).
- Employment references and occupational health procedures.
- Job offer and training confirmation: Once successful, you will receive a role offer with start details for the 5.5-week training course.
Eligibility Checks
Job offers are contingent on:
- Enhanced Level 2 (MoJ clearance): Including an Enhanced DBS check.
- Original proof of satisfactory employment references.
- Passed occupational health screening.
- Completion of random alcohol and drug testing.
⚠️ This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, and UK Home Office visa sponsorship is not available under current regulations. You must possess unrestricted right to work and all visa applications should permit potential counter-signatory checks.
Aligning with safeguarding duties, all team members must undertake mandatory safeguarding training and adhere to published policies.
Applying
Applications are handled on a first-come basis, so apply early to avoid disappointment—peak demands may lead to premature closure.
Serco places a people-first approach to its workforce, prioritising ** equity, diversity, and inclusion**. We make reasonable adjustments for prospective employees and invite applications from a breadth of backgrounds.
As a compensated role, Serco supports applications from those with unspent criminal convictions, in line with policies and legal constraints.
Additional Support
Experience difficulty with your application? Contact: j&icareersuk@serco.com for guidance and further inquiries.
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