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Location: Reading Crown or Magistrates Court
Salary: £22,502 per annum
Working as a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS) is more than just a job; it’s the chance to be a part of something great, to join a work family where you are valued, and you can make a difference every day. In addition to a rewarding career, we also offer:
* Base Salary of £22,502 (35hrs pw)
* Continuous training & development opportunities, with annual base salary increments (year 2 - £23,062 / year 3 - £23,469 / year 4 - £23,933)
* Pension (matched up to 6%), life insurance; 20 days annual leave (rising to 25 after 7 years’ service) plus Bank Holidays.
* Employee Assistance Programme, MIND, Simply Health Care and Dental Plans.
* Access to discounts on Merlin Attractions, Mobile Phones, Cinema, Leisure, Retail, and Hospitality.
* A supportive team & culture focused on diversity and inclusion.
We are operational 24/6, covering various early and late shifts (35hrs pw). Flexibility is key due to the nature of the role, with a range of working arrangements and additional hours. There will be unpredictable finishing times, but we operate a rota basis (provided 12 weeks in advance) that allows for meaningful time off.
We are open to considering part-time positions for day shifts only. However, full-time attendance is required during the initial training period of 5 1/2 weeks.
About the Role:
As a PCO at our court, you’ll work as part of a team to provide safe and secure escorting and custody services to detainees, focusing on maintaining their physical and mental wellbeing. Key duties include:
* Escorting defendants to and from courtrooms, cells, and other areas within the court.
* Monitoring and supervising detainees during court sessions.
* Maintaining discretion and confidentiality regarding sensitive information.
* Ensuring that detainees have access to food and drink.
* Monitoring the mental and physical health of detainees.
* Ensuring the safety and security of the court environment.
* Completing necessary paperwork and data entry accurately.
* Working closely with other court staff, law enforcement, and legal professionals.
What you need to do the job!
Our current PCOs come with different work & life experiences; what matters is your commitment to making a difference. Ideally, you’ll have a current valid driver's license, be reasonably fit, and have good written and verbal communication skills. This role requires a high level of responsibility, vigilance, and the ability to handle challenging situations with professionalism. Our roles suit those with an interest in criminology or psychology.
Application Process: Online assessment -> Briefing call -> Competency-based virtual interview -> Short role-play and written exercise.
Additional Information:
All roles are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, and employment offers are subject to Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks and satisfactory employment references.
About Serco
At Serco, we deliver essential public services globally in areas including defence, transport, justice, immigration, healthcare, and citizen services. We are innovators committed to improving public services.
Apply
Please click on the apply button to complete your application. We encourage prompt applications to avoid disappointment.
At Serco, we prioritize performance and potential and are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organization. We support reasonable adjustments during the interview process and encourage applications from a diverse candidate pool.
For help with your application, please contact 0345 010 4000.
At Serco, we support fair access to employment for those with unspent criminal convictions through the ‘Ban the Box’ pledge.
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