Serco Plc
Prisoner Custody Officer
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Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS)
Location: Gloucester Crown Court, GL1 2TS
Work plays a vital role in helping keep the justice system safe and secure whilst offering job security with multiple progression opportunities.
About the Role
As a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) within Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS), you’ll work as part of a collaborative team to deliver safe and secure escorting and custody services during court proceedings. Key responsibilities include:
- Escorting detainees through court facilities, including courtrooms, cells, and administrative areas
- Supervising detainees during hearings to maintain safety and security
- Supporting detainee welfare, including access to food, drink, and wellbeing checks
- Monitoring behavior and de-escalating incidents or risks
- Conducting searches to ensure a secure environment
- Recording and completing accurate documentation
- Cooperating with court staff to ensure smooth operations
Salary & Progression
- Base Salary: £24,596 (35 hours)+ per week
- Annual Progression:
- Year 2: £26,191
- Year 3: £26,684
- Year 4: £27,180
- Contract adjustment effective from 1st September 2026, with a new baseline of £25,555 as of that date.
Alternative base role with better-embodied progression:
- Base Salary: £23,402 (35 hours/week)
- Annual Salary Increments:
- Year 2: £23,984
- Year 3: £24,436
- Year 4: £24,890
Working Conditions
We operate 24 hours, 7 days, accommodating early and late shifts. Flexibility is essential, and occasional additional hours may be needed, though your schedule is set via a 12-week Look Ahead Rota. Midway working is not accommodated; part-time options would need to align across contracted working days.
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Training & Development
Enjoy structured training including a 5½-week paid induction, ongoing support from colleagues, and prospects for internal advancement.
Key Responsibilities
- Ensuring detainee physical and psychological wellbeing during courts proceedings
- Working closely with court staff and security teams
- Handling sensitive and confidential information with the utmost discretion
- Handling unpredictable risks or security incidents with composure and confidence management
- Health & Safeguarding obligations apply
Must-Haves: Requirements
- Preference given to those with a Full UK Driving Licence (B/B1)
- Capability to handle the physical and emotional demands of the role
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Alertness in high-pressure situations and effective decision-making
- Confidence in the de-escalation of tension and behaviour management
- Professionalism with strict confidentiality and an unwavering ethical conduct
What We Offer
- Holiday Entitlements: Starts at 20 days, tiering to 25 days after seven years, including Bank Holidays
- Pension Scheme: Up to 6% (enhanced by matching Serco contributions)
- Training and Career Support: Including mentoring, qualifications, and regular development coaching
- Wellbeing Initiatives:
- MIND Support
- Simply Health (cash/dental) Discount Programme
- Access to Mental Health & Employee Assistance Programme
- Discounts: Extensive access to Merlin Attractions, hospitality, retail, mobile plans, and leisure sites
- Safeguarding: Must adhere to child and vulnerable adult safeguarding policies; all staff required to receive the essential training.
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Process Overview
- Online Application: Pre-screening is based on eligibility and situation-specific assessments.
- Online Virtual Assessments (day-long):
- Competence-based interviews
- Brief roleplay scenarios
- Written and analytical exercise
- Vetting: Right-to-work check inclusive of security clearance (Enhanced DBS), body health checks, and professional references.
- Contract Offer: Position confirmed and training start date communicated via telephone briefing.
Eligibility & Visa Information
- Must possess legally documented authority to work in the UK (at least one year residency + two years validity on visa permitting work)
- Identification cleared under Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 exemption (needs Enhanced DBS) due to security clearance stipulations
- Random alcohol and drug testing is conducted.
- Skilled Worker visa sponsorship eligibility does not apply.
- Apply for further details or assistance at **j&icareersUK@serco.com.
Recruitment Philosophy
Serco thrives as a people-first organisation, focusing on diversity, inclusion, and supporting:
- Proactive support for overseas applicants via relocation interviews
- Commitment to empowered career progression and access to crucial incentives
- Reasonable accommodations in the recruitment, interview, and ongoing employment process
- Commitment to promote re-entry and support with criminal convictions for qualifying applicants.
Apply now to make an impact in justice and safety—or email j&icareersUK@serco.com for additional information.
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