Prisoner Custody Officer

Prisoner Custody Officer (PECS)

Location: Brighton, East Sussex, United Kingdom (BN2 0RF)

Job ID: 303138

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

Salary: £25,555 per annum (35 hours per week) with structured annual pay progression up to £27,180 by Year 4.

About Supportive Bridge Staffing Agency

At Supportive Bridge, we connect ambitious professionals with critical public-sector roles that offer long-term stability and genuine purpose. Partnering with top justice service providers, we are dedicated to helping candidates find secure careers where they can make a true community impact.

Role Overview

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

Key Responsibilities:

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

• 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.

• Multi-Agency Collaboration: Partner effectively with court personnel, legal teams, and operational partners.

What We Are Looking For

We welcome candidates from a broad variety of 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 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.

• 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 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 paid training.