Serco Plc
Prisoner Custody Officer
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Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) – Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS)
📍 Location: Canterbury, CT1 1ZA
Join us as a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS), where you’ll play a critical role in helping keep the justice system safe and secure.
Salary & Progression
- Starting Salary: £24,596 for 35 hours per week
- Annual Progression:
- From 1st September 2026, salary rises to £25,555
- Year 2: £26,191
- Year 3: £26,684
- Year 4: **£27,180+
Role Overview
Operating on a 24/7 basis across early and late shifts, this role requires flexibility and the ability to adapt. Ending times may be unpredictable, sometimes requiring extra hours to meet operational demands. Shifts are allocated 12 weeks in advance for planning. Note: Part-time hours must align with full working days—limited daily hours are not available.
As a PCO, you’ll ensure detainee safety and courtroom security, supporting smooth court procedures while maintaining strict confidentiality. Your responsibilities include:
- Escorting detainees within courts, including courtrooms, cells, and facilities
- Supervising detainees during hearings to maintain safety and order
- Handling high-pressure, sensitive situations with calm professionalism
- Supporting detainee welfare, including access to food, hydration, and wellbeing checks
- Conducting security checks and incident monitoring
- Documenting all activities accurately
- Collaborating closely with court staff and partners across court systems
Required Skills & Qualifications
Success in this role depends on attributes rather than background. All recruits complete:
- Fully paid 5½-week training program
- Ongoing support from experienced colleagues
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Essential Requirements:
- Valid UK driving licence (Category B/B1, preferred)
- Reasonable physical fitness to handle the role’s demands
- Strong communication skills (written and verbal)
- Ability to remain composed and make sound decisions under pressure
- Experience in conflict de-escalation or managing behavioural challenges
- Commitment to teamwork, process accuracy, and professional integrity
- Respect for strict confidentiality
Rewards & Benefits
Work-Life Balance
- 20 day holiday entitlement, increasing to 25 days after 7 years
- Bank holidays included (pro-rated for part-timers)
Development
- Structured paid training (5½ weeks)
- Free internal courses and qualifications
- Mentorship and career progression focus
Wellbeing Support
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
- Partnership with MIND for mental health support
- Simply Health cash and dental plans
- Access to Serco-run gym memberships at discounted rates
- Additional wellbeing resources
Discounts & Perks
Access to savings across retail partners, including:
- Cinema & leisure (e.g., Merlin attractions)
- Retail, hospitality
- Mobile plans & more
Recruitment Process
- Online application (eligibility questions and assessments)
- Virtual competency interview with roleplay and written exercise
- Right to Work and vetting checks (DBS Enhanced Clearance)
- Job offer followed by training start date confirmation
Security & Vetting:
- All roles require Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks
- Enhanced DBS clearance required
- Occupational health assessments included
- Satisfactory employment references mandatory
- Routine drugs and alcohol tests apply Note: Role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and may require counter-signatory checks for visa holders.*
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Visa Eligibility:
- Role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship
- Applicants must hold secure UK work rights with 2+ years remaining on their visa
Safeguarding Commitment:
All personnel undertake mandatory safeguarding training for children and vulnerable adults.
About Serco
Serco’s 50,000-strong network delivers essential public services worldwide—from defence to courts—focusing on innovation and safeguarding the most vulnerable. Priding ourselves as an innovative employer committed to diversity, inclusion, and collective impact, we strive to keep communities safe and services running smoothly.
SercoInspire™
We uphold Global Employee Networks, supporting:
- Gender equality (SercoInspire)
- Multicultural celebrations (SercoEmbrace)
- Disability inclusion (SercoUnlimited)
- LGBTQ+ allyship (In@Serco)
Serco is a leading Disability Confident employer and proud holder of the Gold Inclusive Employer Standard.
Commitments to Prospective Employees:
- Fair Access: We support candidates with unspent criminal convictions and stress open discussion with our Ban the Box commitment.
- Flexibility: Discussions are encouraged (hybrid/flexible work options available).
- Reasonable Adjustments: Made upon request from the application stage onward. Apply promptly to avoid anticipated rushes.
Contact for Support: j&icareersUK@serco.com
Apply now and help serve a safer and more accessible justice system—for children, vulnerable communities, and all citizens. #PECSlifeTogether
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