Serco Plc
Prisoner Custody Officer
How your CV stacks up
Upload your CV to see how well it fits this job role
?%
Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) – Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS)
Location: Uxbridge Magistrates Court, UB8 1PQ
Join us to play a key role in helping keep the justice system safe and secure as a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) within Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS).
We offer job security, stability, and the following benefits:
Salary & Progression:
- £27,220 (35 hours per week), rising to £28,179 from 1 September 2026
- Clear annual progression:
- Year 2: £28,865
- Year 3: £29,508
- Year 4: £30,172
Operating Hours:
- 24/7 service, including early and late shifts (unpredictable finishing times)
- Rota provided 12 weeks in advance (flexibility to plan ahead)
- Part-time may be considered across full working days only (not reduced daily hours)
About the Role
As a PCO, you’ll work as part of a skilled team to:
- Deliver safe and secure escorting of detainees within the court premises
- Maintain detainee welfare throughout court proceedings, from search to release
- Ensure smooth court operations by facilitating safe transfers, hearings, and documentation
Key Duties:
- Escorting detainees between courtrooms, cells, and holding facilities
- Supervising detainees during hearings to preserve safety and security
- Handling sensitive and confidential information
- Supporting detainee wellbeing (providing food, drink, and health checks)
- Monitoring behaviour, responding to incidents, and de-escalating risks
- Conducting regular searches to uphold secure operations
- Recording accurate details of all court interactions and procedures
- Collaborating closely with court staff and ancillary services
Reasons to use Rodeo
Start with a chat, not a search bar
Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
It searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
Requirements
No prior experience is essential—this is a great opportunity for new entrants. What matters most is:
-
Must-have:
- Full UK driving licence (Category B or B1) (desirable)
- Reasonable physical fitness for role demands
- Clear communication skills (written and verbal)
- Ability to stay calm under pressure and make sound decisions
- Strong behaviour management and conflict de-escalation skills
-
Essential personal traits:
- Teamwork and strict attention to process accuracy
- Professionalism, integrity, and commitment to confidentiality
Training & Support
- Paid 5½-week training programme to prepare you for the role
- Full support from experienced colleagues
- Ongoing professional development
You’ll Receive:
Holistic Benefits:
📅 Holidays: 20 days (30 days after 7 years’ service) + pro-rata bank holidays ✅ Pension: 6% contributory (matched by Serco) via defined contribution scheme 🎯 Development & Growth: Structured induction, internal training, mentoring, and career advancement
🏥 Health & Wellbeing:
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
- Discounts on Serco gym memberships
- Partner discounts with Simply Health (healthcare/cash plan)
- Mental health support via MIND
Cost of Living & Lifestyle:
- Discounts across retail, leisure (cinema/attractions), mobile plans, hospitality, and more
Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
Recruitment Process
- Online Application (eligibility questions + written assessments)
- Virtual Assessment
- Competency-based interview
- Short role-play scenario
- Written task
- Pre-Employment Checks:
- Right-to-work verification
- **Enhanced **Level 2 Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS)
- Employment references & occupational health assessment
- Job Offer & Training Start Date Confirmation
Eligibility & Additional Notes
⚠ Pre-Clearance:
- Role subject to Enhanced Level 2 DBS and ongoing alcohol/drug testing
- Rehabilitation of Offenders Act does not apply
- Applicants must have immigration right to work in the UK
🔒 Safeguarding: All colleagues must complete safeguarding training and adhere to policies
Apply today: https://serco.com/careers/register/ (apply promptly to avoid withdrawal of vacancies)
Our Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion
At Serco, we prioritise Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion. Our initiatives include:
🏳️🌈 SercoInspire (Gender Equality) 🌍 SercoEmbrace (Multicultural Network) 🦽 SercoUnlimited (Disability Support) 🌈 In@Serco (LGBTQ+ Allies)
✨ "People First" philosophy → Open to flexible working, reasonable adjustments, and skilled references
📝 Diversity questions? Contact: j&icareersUK@serco.com
Serco holds the Gold Inclusive Employer Standard and is a #BanTheBox advocate.
“Help redefine justice, keep people safe, and create a brighter future—together.” #pecs #prisonercustodyofficercourts
“It took my CV and asked me questions relevant to understanding what kind of jobs to suggest for me. Suggestions were almost perfect. Jobs were exactly what I’ve been looking for.”
Jessica, London
Skills