Prisoner Custody Officer

Prisoner Custody Officer (PECS)

Location: Snaresbrook Crown Court or Annex, Greater London (E11 1QW)

Job ID: 303616

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 bridge the gap between talented professionals and vital public-sector organizations. We are proud to partner with leading justice and immigration service providers to place dedicated individuals into secure, meaningful, and stable careers. Join us and help keep the justice system safe, secure, and moving forward.

Role Overview

As a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) within Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS), you will play a frontline role in maintaining security and safety across court proceedings. You will be responsible for the secure escorting, supervision, and welfare of detainees from arrival through to their release or return to custody.

Key Responsibilities:

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

• Order & Security: Supervise hearings meticulously to maintain absolute safety, manage sensitive situations, and handle de-escalation calmly.

• Detainee Welfare: Conduct regular wellbeing checks and support access to food, water, and necessary provisions.

• Compliance & Documentation: Carry out necessary searches and maintain accurate, confidential operational records.

• Collaborative Working: Partner closely with court staff, security teams, and legal professionals to ensure smooth daily operations.

What We Are Looking For

We welcome applicants from diverse professional backgrounds—whether you have experience in security, customer service, retail, care work, logistics, or armed services. What matters most is your integrity, resilience, and commitment to making a positive difference.

Requirements:

• Right to Work: Must have full, unrestricted right to work in the UK (minimum 2 years remaining on visa if applicable, with at least 1 year UK residency).

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

• Core Competencies: Strong communication skills, sound decision-making under pressure, physical fitness for an active role, and a calm, authoritative demeanor.

• Vetting Ready: Ability to pass rigorous compliance checks, including 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

• Comprehensive Training: A 5½-week fully paid structured induction and training program, paired with ongoing mentorship.

• Predictable Scheduling: Shift patterns operate 24/6 across early and late schedules, provided via a rota 12 weeks in advance.

• Financial Security: Contributory pension scheme (matched up to 6%) and structured pay increases.

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

• Perks & Holidays: 20 days holiday (rising to 25 with service) plus bank holidays, alongside exclusive retail and leisure discounts.

Our Recruitment Process

1. Online Application: Submit your profile, complete initial eligibility questions, and online assessments.

2. Virtual Assessment: Competency-based interview, a short online roleplay, and a written exercise.

3. Vetting & Compliance: Right-to-work, Enhanced DBS, reference, and occupational health checks.

4. Offer & Training: Job confirmation and start date allocation for your paid training course.