Prisoner Custody Officer

Location: St Albans Crown and Magistrates Courts, AL1 3JU

Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) – Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS)

As a PCO, you will work as part of a team to deliver safe and secure escorting and custody services, ensuring detainee welfare at all times during court proceedings.

Key Responsibilities

• Escort detainees within the court, including to courtrooms, cells and facilities
• Supervise detainees during hearings to maintain safety and security
• Manage sensitive situations and maintain strict confidentiality
• Support detainee welfare, including access to food, drink and wellbeing checks
• Monitor behaviour and respond to incidents or risks
• Conduct security searches to maintain a secure environment
• Complete accurate records and documentation
• Work closely with court staff and partners to ensure smooth operations

Requirements

• Full UK driving licence (B/B1) – desirable
• Reasonable fitness for the physical demands of the role
• Strong communication skills (written and verbal)
• Ability to stay calm and make decisions under pressure
• Confidence in managing behaviour and de‑escalating conflict
• Teamwork and the ability to follow processes accurately
• Professionalism, integrity, and respect for confidentiality

Salary & Benefits

• Salary: £27,220 (35 hrs per week), rising to £28,179 from 1 September 2026
• Annual progression: Year 2 – £28,865; Year 3 – £29,508; Year 4 – £30,172
• Holidays: 20 days (rising to 25 after 7 years’ service) plus bank holidays (pro‑rated)
• Pension: Up to 6% contributory scheme, matched by Serco
• Training and development: Structured 5½‑week induction, ongoing learning, internal courses and qualifications, mentoring, and strong focus on internal progression
• Health and wellbeing: Employee Assistance Programme, support from mental‑health charity MIND, Simply Health cash and dental plans, wellbeing resources, and a discount on membership at Serco‑run gyms
• Discounts: Savings across major retailers and experiences, including Merlin attractions, cinema, leisure and retail

Eligibility & Appointments

All applicants must have the right to work in the UK and will undergo:

• Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks with Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance, satisfactory references and occupational health checks
• Random alcohol and drug testing
• Exemption from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974
• No eligibility for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship under current UK Home Office regulations

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