Serco Plc
Prisoner Custody Officer
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Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) – Court-based Position
Role: Prisoner Custody Officer (PECS) Location: High Wycombe Magistrates Court, HP11 1LR
About the Role
Join Serco’s Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS) and play a critical role in safeguarding the justice system. As a PCO, you will ensure the safe transfer, welfare, and security of detainees during court proceedings while working as part of a dedicated operational team.
Key responsibilities include:
- Safeguarding detainees and maintaining secure transit through court facilities
- Supporting detainee welfare (food, water, medical access)
- Monitoring behaviour and responding to incidents
- Conducting searches and record-keeping
Salary & Development
- Starting salary: £24,596 (35 hours per week)
- Annual progression: Rising to £25,555 from 1 September 2026, with further clear increments:
- Year 2: £26,191
- Year 3: £26,684
- Year 4: £27,180
- Flexible shifts: 24/7 coverage with 12-week rota visibility. Fixed full-days only (no reduced hours).
- Full training: Paid 5½-week induction course, plus ongoing support.
Split & Responsibilities
You’ll work across various security functions, including:
- Transporting detainees to/from courtrooms, cells, and support facilities
- Managing detainee behaviour and security protocols
- Adhering to strict confidentiality
- Collaborating with court staff, security partners, and legal teams
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Requirements
No prior experience is necessary—your attitudes and skills matter most. Key criteria include:
- Full UK driving licence (preferred) or ability to
- Reasonable fitness for physical demands (e.g., Escorting, interacting with detainees)
- Strong communication skills (written + verbal)
- Prolific ability: Staying calm, logical, and professional under pressure
- Conflict-de-escalation expertise for high-stress situations
- Commitment to confidentiality and integrity
Benefits
- Holidays: 20 days + bank holidays (pro-rated) → 25 days after 7 years
- Pension: 6% employer contribution
- Social support:
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
- Discounts with Merlin, streaming, retail, and more
- Wellbeing: Free membership at Serco-run gyms, Simply Health cash/dental plans
Process
1. Complete eligibility questions + online assessments 2. Virtual interview + role-play + written test 3. Vetting checks (DBS, Right to Work, occupational health) 4. Offer + training start date
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Additional Considerations
- Role exemptions:
- Please contact j&icareersUK@serco.com about:
- Unspent criminal convictions (Ban the Box eligible).
- Visa eligibility (must have 2+ years remaining).
- Please contact j&icareersUK@serco.com about:
- Disability welcome: Serco holds the Disability Confident Leader status. Adapations available.
- Flexibility: Open to discussions on hybrid/return-to-office options.
- Safeguarding: Completion of training required.
Why Serco?
Serco delivers vital public services, including justice and policing, with a focus on innovation, diversity, and impact. Careers unite three organisation-wide networks:
- SercoInspire (Gender Equity)
- SercoEmbrace (Multicultural Inclusion)
- SercoUnlimited (Disability Support). Annually visioned network supporting LGBT+ employees.
"Keep people safe. Keep justice moving."
Apply now and take the first step to join a collaborative team.
#prisonercustodyofficer | #pecs | #justice
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