Prisoner Custody Officer
About this role
Job Advertisement: Prisoner Custody Officer
Company Name: Support Bridge Staffing Agency
Location: Guildford Magistrates Court, GU1 4PS
Salary: £25,555 per annum (35 hours per week) with clear annual progression (Year 2: £26,191; Year 3: £26,684; Year 4: £27,180)
Job Type: Permanent, Full-Time (24/6 shift rota across early and late shifts; flexibility required)
Job ID: 305318
Keep people safe. Keep justice moving.
Support Bridge Staffing Agency is proud to partner with essential justice and escort services to connect dedicated professionals with secure, stable careers. We are currently recruiting a committed Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) to join our Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS) team at Guildford Magistrates Court.
In this vital role, you will work collaboratively as part of a team to deliver safe and secure escorting and custody services. You will be directly responsible for detainee welfare, safety, and security throughout court proceedings until their safe return to custody or release, helping to keep the justice system running smoothly.
What You’ll Do
Escort & Supervision: Safely escort detainees within the court (to courtrooms, cells, and facilities) and supervise them during hearings to maintain strict security.
Welfare & Support: Support detainee welfare by managing wellbeing checks and providing access to food, drink, and essential care.
Incident Management: Monitor behavior, respond effectively to incidents or risks, and maintain calm control in sensitive situations.
Security & Records: Conduct thorough security searches, maintain strict confidentiality, and complete accurate records and documentation.
Partnership Working: Work closely with court staff, legal professionals, and partners to ensure seamless daily court operations.
What We Are Looking For
Background: We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds—including security, custody, care, retail, hospitality, transport, and customer service. Your commitment and attitude matter most!
Key Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills, calm under pressure, conflict de-escalation abilities, and rigorous attention to detail.
Requirements: Reasonable physical fitness for the demands of the role. A full UK driving licence (B/B1) is desirable.
Vetting & Compliance: Ability to pass Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks, Enhanced DBS clearance, and mandatory drug/alcohol testing. (Note: Must have the right to work in the UK with at least 2 years remaining on any visa and 1 year of UK residency).
What We Offer You
Comprehensive Training: A fully paid 5.5-week structured induction and training program, plus ongoing mentorship from experienced colleagues.
Leave Allowance: 20 days’ holiday (rising to 25 days after 7 years' service) plus bank holidays (pro-rata).
Pension Scheme: Up to 6% contributory employer pension scheme.
Health & Wellbeing: Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), mental health support via MIND, Simplyhealth cash and dental plans, and discounts on gym memberships.
Retail Perks: Savings across major retailers, leisure experiences, cinema, hospitality, and mobile plans.
Vetting and Checks
Job offers are subject to Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks with Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance, satisfactory employment references, and occupational health checks. This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, and all staff are subject to random alcohol and drug testing.