Location: Southwark Crown Court, SE1 2HU
Join us as a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS) where you’ll play a key role in helping keep the justice system safe and secure.
We operate 24/6 across early and late shifts, so flexibility is essential. Finishing times can be unpredictable, and you may need to work beyond your contracted hours to meet operational demands. The shift rota is provided 12 weeks in advance. Part‑time working may be considered but only across full working days; reduced daily hours are not available.
Key Duties
- Escorting detainees within the court, including to courtrooms, cells, and facilities
- Supervising detainees during hearings to maintain safety and security
- Managing sensitive situations and maintaining strict confidentiality
- Supporting detainee welfare, including access to food, drink and wellbeing checks
- Monitoring behaviour and responding to incidents or risks
- Conducting searches to maintain a secure environment
- Completing accurate records and documentation
- Working 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 managing behaviour and de‑escalating conflict
- Teamwork and the ability to follow processes accurately
- Professionalism, integrity and respect for confidentiality
Benefits
- Salary: £27,318 (35hrs pw), rising to £28,277 from 1st September 2026; further clear annual progression: Year 2: £29,193; Year 3: £30,051; Year 4: £30,935
- Holidays: 20 days (rising to 25 after 7 years’ service) plus bank holidays (pro rata)
- Pension: Up to 6% contributory pension scheme (matched by Serco)
- Training and development: Structured induction (5½ weeks) with ongoing learning, internal courses and qualifications, mentoring and focus on internal progression
- Health and wellbeing: Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), support from mental health charity MIND, Simply Health cash and dental plans, wellbeing resources, discount on membership at Serco‑run gyms
- Discounts: Savings across major retailers, leisure, hospitality, mobile plans and more
Eligibility and Checks
- Job offers subject to Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks with Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance, satisfactory employment references and occupational health checks
- Role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974
- All roles subject to random alcohol and drug testing
- Not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship under current UK Home Office regulations. Right to work in the UK required. Visa must have at least two years remaining and one year’s UK residency
- All colleagues required to complete safeguarding training and follow safeguarding policies
We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation that supports the needs of all.
We are proud to be a Disability Confident Leader employer and holder of the Gold Inclusive Employer Standard.
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