Prisoner Custody Officer

Prisoner Custody Officer (PECS)

Location: Portsmouth Crown and Magistrates Court, Hampshire, United Kingdom (PO1 2DQ)

Job ID: 303777

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

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

About Supportive Bridge Staffing Agency

At Supportive Bridge, we connect dedicated and dependable professionals with critical public-sector careers. Partnering with leading justice service providers, we specialize in placing candidates into stable, rewarding roles where your daily work helps maintain public safety and keeps the justice system moving forward.

Role Overview

As a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) within Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS), you will play a frontline part in keeping court proceedings safe and secure. 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: Supervise 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). Note: This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship.

• 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 from experienced colleagues.

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

• Financial Benefits: Up to 6% contributory pension scheme (matched) 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 verification, Enhanced DBS, references, and occupational health checks.

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