Serco Plc
Prisoner Custody Officer
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Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS)
Location: Slough Magistrates Court, SL1 2HJ
Role Summary: Join us as a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS)—play a vital role in keeping the justice system safe and secure.
Key Details
- Salary: £24,596 (35 hours per week), rising to £25,555 from 1 September 2026
- Progression: Year 2: £26,191 | Year 3: £26,684 | Year 4: £27,180
- Contract:
- 24/7 operations (early/late shifts)
- Rotas set 12 weeks in advance
- Part-time options limited to full working days (not reduced hours)
About the Job
"Keep people safe. Keep justice moving." As a PCO, you’ll form part of a team dedicated to:
- Safely escorting prisoners through courts, cells, and facilities
- Supervising detainees during hearings and maintaining strict security
- Managing sensitive situations with confidentiality and professionalism
- Assisting with detainee welfare (food, drink, wellbeing checks)
- Monitoring behaviour, handling incidents, and conducting security searches
- Completing accurate records and documentation
- Collaborating with court staff and partners for smooth operations
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Training & Support
- Paid training: 5½-week induction program
- Ongoing mentorship from experienced colleagues
Requirements
- Full UK driving licence (B/B1) is desirable but not mandatory
- Reasonable fitness to meet physical demands
- Strong communication skills (written/verbal)
- Ability to stay calm and make sound decisions under pressure
- Confidence in behaviour management and de-escalation
- Teamwork and attention to detail
- Professionalism, integrity, and confidentiality
What We Offer
- Holidays: 20 days (rising to 25 after 7 years) + bank holidays (prorated)
- Pension: Up to 6% employee contribution (matched by Serco)
- Development:
- Structured induction and internal training
- Mentoring and clear career progression
- Wellbeing:
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
- Support from MIND (mental health charity)
- Simply Health (cash/ dental plans)
- Discounts on Serco gym memberships
- Discounts:
- Retail, leisure, hospitality, mobile plans, and more
- Merlin attractions, cinema, experiences
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Recruitment Process
- Online application + eligibility checks
- Virtual assessment (competency-based interview, roleplay, written test)
- Right-to-work and vetting checks
- Intended start date confirmation
Eligibility & Conditions
✅ Must have the right to work in the UK ⚠️ Role exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 ⚠️ Random drug/alcohol testing applies ❌ Not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship
Security checks:
- Ministry of Justice Enhanced DBS clearance
- Employment references + occupational health assessment
About Serco
Serco delivers essential public services worldwide—from justice and healthcare to immigration and defence. We’re innovators dedicated to redesigning public services for a better future.
Diversity & Inclusion:
- Global employee networks (Gender, Multicultural, Disability, LGBT)
- Ban the Box policy (fair access for candidates with unspent convictions)
- Commitment to reasonable adjustments throughout recruitment
Ready to make an impact? Apply now—submissions may close unexpectedly due to high volume.
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