Serco Plc
Prisoner Custody Officer
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Prisoner Custody Officer
Location Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS) Willesden Magistrates Court, NW10 2DZ
About the Role
Join our PCO team in London, where you’ll play a critical role in maintaining justice system security. Ensure safe, operative custody services for detainees, securing courts while prioritising welfare. You’ll lead detainee escort from arrival in custody through court proceedings, coordinating shifts in a fast-paced, 24/7 environment.
Key Responsibilities As a PCO, your tasks include but are not limited to:
- Escorting detainees through court facilities (courtrooms, cells, services).
- Supervising detainees during hearings for safety and security compliance.
- Managing sensitive information with strict confidentiality.
- Supporting detainee welfare – food, drink, wellbeing checks, psychological observations.
- Monitoring behaviour and handling disciplinary incidents.
- Performing security searches and completing accurate documentation.
- Collaborating with court staff and judicial partners to ensure smooth operations.
24/7 Operations & Shift Flexibility
- Operates 24 hours/7 days per week, including early and late rotational shifts.
- Flexibility is essential – unpredictable duties mean shifts may occasionally exceed contracted hours.
Competitive Compensation & Career Progression
| Sequence | Salary (Annual / 35hrs pw) | Progression (from Sept 1 2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Initial | £27,220 | |
| Year 1 | Rises to £28,179 | |
| Year 2 | £28,865 | |
| Year 3 | £29,508 | |
| Year 4 | £30,172 |
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Requirements & Expectations
This vital role requires:
- Full UK driving licence, Category B (preferred for accessibility).
- Physical fitness to meet on-the-job demands.
- Written/verbal communication skills for security and administrative duties.
- Nervous poise and problem-solving under pressure essential.
- Ability to manage behavior and de-escalate conflicts diplomatically.
- Enforced critical adherence to protocols amid discretion.
No prior experience required; Serco provides a 5½-week paid training programme. Ongoing mentorship during operational deployment.
Benefits
- Leave: 20 days (increasing to 25 days after 7 years), plus bank holidays.
- Pension: Employer-matched up to 6% contribution.
- Training & Growth: Structured induction, exclusive courses, career mentorship.
- Wellbeing Support: Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), gym discounts, MIND wellness resources.
- Lifestyle Discounts: Retail, leisure, attractions (including cinemas, travel).
Eligibility & Recruitment Process
- Online Application: Included (eligibility screening / written tasks).
- Virtual Assessment (~1-hour packed with a competency-interview, behavioral roleplay, analytical exercise*).
- Background Checks: Module 3 legal clearance (post-vetting), occupational health, acceptable references.
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Requirements Exemptions: Applicants with convictions must advise; no sponsorship available under current UK Visa Policy and criminal records will be reviewed.
Serco Inclusion Policy
Serco bolsters diversity, equity and accessibility, promoting hybrid flexibility in most divisions. Our secure network includes:
🔹 Serco Inspire (Gender Equality) 🔹 Serco Embrace (Multicultural Representation) 🔹 Serco In@Serco (LGBTQ+) 🔹 Serco Unlimited (Disabled representation)
Guild membership optional, and reasonable adjustments at pre-employment to interviews are standard procedure.
Serco proudly holds: 💎 ATSE Gold Inclusive Employer Standard 🏆 Disability Confident Leader certification.
At Serco’s Core
We act as guardians of society: housing healthcare workers, security for tribunals, justice centres, prisoner relocations, and suspicions creeds. Join the mission to deter disruption, protect dignity, and ensure the wheels of legal justice keep moving. Together, we are impact-driven.
Apply Now Submit via “Click Here to Apply,” adhering to sudden.cap volume curtains—the closing date may move forward after high demand. Contact j&AcareersUK@serco.com for adjustments/recruitment inquiries.
The emphasis here is on your potential; eligibility only revolves around British residence rights and healthy statutory attributes. Let’s shape a more secure future, one custody at a time.
🎯 #PECSCourts | #PrisonerCustodyOfficer | #SercoJustice
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