Serco Plc
Prisoner Custody Officer
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Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) – Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS)
Location: Westminster Magistrates Court, NW1 5BR
Join us as a Prisoner Custody Officer in Prison Escort Custody Services (PECS), where you’ll play a critical role in maintaining the safety and security of the justice system.
About the Role
Keep people safe. Keep justice moving. As a PCO, you’ll work within a team to provide secure escort and custody services during court proceedings, ensuring the welfare of detainees until they are either returned to custody or released.
Key responsibilities include:
- Escorting detainees to and from courtrooms, cells, and facilities
- Supervising detainees during hearings to maintain safety and order
- Managing sensitive situations while maintaining strict confidentiality
- Supporting detainee welfare (food, drink, and wellbeing checks)
- Monitoring behaviour and responding to incidents or risks
- Conducting searches to maintain a secure environment
- Completing accurate records and documentation
- Collaborating closely with court staff and partners
Why Work Here?
Salary & Progression
- Base Salary: £27,318 (35 hours per week)
- Annual Salary Increases:
- From September 2026: £28,277
- Year 2: £29,193
- Year 3: £30,051
- Year 4: £30,935
- Operates 24/7, with shifts set from a rota provided 12 weeks in advance for flexibility.
- Part-time work is possible, but must be across full working days—no reduced daily hours.
What We Look For
Unlike traditional qualifications, what matters most is your commitment and personal qualities. You’ll undergo a paid 5½-week training programme, plus ongoing support from senior colleagues.
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Essential Requirements
- Full UK driving licence (Category B/B1) (desirable)
- Reasonable fitness for the role’s demands
- Strong communication skills (written & verbal)
- Ability to stay calm and make sound decisions under pressure
- Confident behaviour management and de-escalation skills
- Team player with accuracy in following procedures
- Professionalism, integrity, and respect for confidentiality
What We Offer
Benefits
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20 days’ holiday (rising to 25 days after 7 years) + bank holidays (pro-rata)
-
Pension scheme: 6% contributory (matched by Serco)
-
Training & development:
- Structured 5½-week induction
- Ongoing learning opportunities
- Internal qualifications
- Mentoring and career progression
-
Health & wellbeing support:
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
- MIND mental health support
- Simply Health cash and dental plans
- Gym discounts
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Retail discounts:
- Savings on cinema, leisure, holidays (e.g., Merlin attractions), mobile plans, and more
Our Recruitment Process
- Online application (inclusion of eligibility questions & online assessments)
- Virtual assessment:
- Competency-based interview
- Short role-play
- Written exercise
- Document checks (right-to-work, vetting)
- Job offer with training start date confirmation
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Eligibility & Further Details
All job offers are subject to:
- Permanent Enhanced Level 2 checks (via DBS clearance)
- Satisfactory employment references
- Occupational health checks
⚠️ Important Note: This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and requires random alcohol and drug testing.
❌ Eligibility:
- You must have the right to work in the UK.
- Visa applicants must have at least 2 years remaining on their visa and 1 year of UK residency for counter-signature checks.
About Serco
At Serco, we believe impact starts with people. Join us and contribute to vital public services worldwide, from justice and healthcare to defence and citizen services. We champion diversity and inclusivity, empowering employee networks for:
- SercoInspire (Gender)
- SercoEmbrace (Multicultural)
- SercoUnlimited (Disability)
- In@Serco (LGBT+)
We are proud Disability Confident Leaders and hold the Gold Inclusive Employer Standard.
For fair access to employment: Serco commits to the "Ban the Box" pledge (some roles may require security clearance, so discuss any convictions with j&icareersUK@serco.com).
Need help with your application? Contact: j&icareersUK@serco.com
#pecs #prisonercustodyofficer – Apply today! Please submit early to avoid last-minute deadline extensions.
Available at [Serco Careers Portal] – (Apply link pending; substitute with actual published link).
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