Serco Plc
Prisoner Custody Officer
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Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS)
About the Role
Location: Croydon, Surrey, CR9 5AB
Join us to play a key role in keeping the justice system safe and secure as a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS).
As a PCO, you’ll work as part of a team to deliver safe and secure escorting and custody services, ensuring detainee welfare during all court proceedings. Your responsibilities include escorting detainees, supervising them during hearings, and working closely with court staff to maintain security. The role demands flexibility, as shifts operate 24/7 with unpredictable finishing times.
Shift Information:
- Rotas are published 12 weeks in advance to help with planning
- Part-time options may be considered, but only across full working days (reduced hourly hours unavailable)
Key Responsibilities
You’ll be responsible for detainees throughout court proceedings until their return to custody or release. Key duties include:
- Escorting detainees within courts (to courtrooms, cells, and facilities)
- Supervising detainees during hearings to ensure safety and security
- Managing sensitive situations and maintaining strict confidentiality
- Supporting detainee welfare (food, drink, wellbeing checks)
- Monitoring behaviour and responding to incidents or risks
- Conducting searches to uphold security standards
- Completing accurate records and documentation
- Collaborating with court staff and partners to ensure smooth operations
Salary & Progression
- Starting salary: £27,220 (35 hours per week)
- Annual progression:
- Year 2: £28,865
- Year 3: £29,508
- Year 4: £30,172
- From 1st September 2026, the minimum salary increases to £28,179
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Requirements
The PCO role attracts candidates from diverse backgrounds—commitment and attitude matter most. You’ll receive:
- Paid 5½-week training program upon selection
- Ongoing support from experienced colleagues
Essential Qualifications & Skills:
- Full UK driving licence (B/B1) – (desirable)
- Physical fitness to meet the role’s demands
- Strong communication (written and verbal)
- Ability to stay calm and make decisions under pressure
- Confidence in managing behaviour and de-escalating conflict
- Teamwork and adherence to established processes
- Professionalism, integrity, and respect for confidentiality
Benefits
Work-Life Balance
- 20 holiday days (rising to 25 after 7 years’ service), plus pro-rated bank holidays
Career & Development
- Up to 6% contributory pension scheme, matched by Serco
- Structured induction (5½ weeks) + ongoing training
- Access to internal courses and qualifications
- Mentoring program and strong focus on internal progression
Health & Wellbeing
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
- Support from MIND (mental health charity)
- Simply Health cash and dental plans
- Free membership at Serco’s on-site gyms
- Wellbeing resources and mental health support
Discounts & Perks
- Savings across major retailers (including Merlin attractions, cinema, leisure, retail, and hospitality)
- Discounts on mobile plans and more
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Recruitment Process
- Online application (eligibility questions + online assessments)
- Virtual assessment (competency-based interview, roleplay, written exercise)
- Right to work & vetting checks (DBS, references, occupational health assessments)
- Job offer & training start date confirmation
Eligibility & Compliance
All candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Pass Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks with Enhanced DBS clearance
- Submit satisfactory employment references
- Undergo occupational health assessments
- Adhere to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults policies (mandatory training required)
Important Notes:
- This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974
- Random alcohol and drug testing applies
- Skilled Worker visa sponsorship is not currently available* (under UK Home Office regulations)
- Right to work in the UK must be proven (visa holders must have at least two years remaining validity and one year of residency for counter-signatory checks).
About Serco
Serco delivers essential public services globally, from justice to healthcare to defence. We empower 50,000+ employees to drive innovation in public services.
At Serco, we prioritise diversity and inclusion, offering adjustments at every stage of recruitment and employment. We proudly hold the Disability Confident Leader and Inclusive Employer Standard (Gold) accreditations.
Apply today and help shape a better justice system with us!
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