Prisoner Custody Officer

Prisoner Custody Officer (PECS)

Location: St Albans Crown and Magistrates Courts, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom (AL1 3JU)

Job ID: 303156

Employment Type: Full-Time, Regular (Part-time considered across full working days)

Salary: £28,179 per annum (35 hours per week) with clear annual progression up to £30,172 by Year 4.

About Supportive Bridge Staffing Agency

At Supportive Bridge, we connect motivated professionals with crucial public-sector roles that offer long-term job security and meaningful impact. Partnering with top-tier justice service providers, we are committed to helping you build a stable and rewarding career where you can make a real difference.

Role Overview

As a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS), you will play a critical frontline part in keeping the justice system safe, secure, and running smoothly. You will be responsible for the secure escorting, supervision, and welfare of detainees throughout court proceedings until their release or return to custody.

Key Responsibilities:

• Secure Escorting: Safely escort and move detainees within the court environment, including holding cells, facilities, and courtrooms.

• Order & Security: Monitor hearings closely, maintain strict safety standards, and handle sensitive situations with composure and de-escalation skills.

• Detainee Welfare: Conduct regular wellbeing checks and manage access to provisions such as food and drink.

• Compliance & Records: Carry out thorough security searches and complete precise operational documentation.

• Collaborative Working: Partner effectively with court personnel, legal teams, and operational partners to ensure smooth daily operations.

What We Are Looking For

We welcome candidates from a broad variety of professional backgrounds—whether you have experience in security, retail, customer care, logistics, care work, or hospitality. Your attitude, integrity, and resilience are what matter most.

Requirements:

• Right to Work: Unrestricted right to work in the UK (with at least 2 years remaining on any visa and a minimum of 1 year UK residency).

• Driving Licence: Full UK driving licence (B/B1) is highly desirable.

• Core Competencies: Excellent verbal and written communication, strong emotional intelligence, calmness under pressure, and physical fitness for an active role.

• Vetting Eligibility: Prepared to pass Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks and an Enhanced DBS. (Note: This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974).

What We Offer You

• Fully Paid Training: An extensive 5½-week structured induction and training program, backed by ongoing mentorship and career progression paths.

• Predictable Rosters: Shift patterns run 24/6 across early and late shifts, scheduled via a rota provided 12 weeks in advance.

• Financial Benefits: Contributory pension scheme (matched up to 6%) and clear annual pay progression.

• Health & Wellbeing: Access to an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), MIND mental health support, Simply Health plans, and gym discounts.

• Perks & Leave: 20 days holiday (increasing to 25 with service) plus bank holidays, alongside retail, hospitality, and leisure savings.

Our Recruitment Process

1. Online Application: Submit your details, eligibility answers, and online assessments.

2. Virtual Assessment: Competency-based interview, a brief online roleplay, and a written task.

3. Vetting & Checks: Right-to-work, Enhanced DBS, references, and occupational health screening.

4. Job Offer: Confirmation of your placement and start date for your paid training.