Prison Support - HMP Bullingdon

Role overview

His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service is hiring an Operational Support Grade (OSG) for HMP Bullingdon. This position is an active, varied support role that helps keep a busy prison running safely and efficiently. The work blends office-based tasks with practical duties on the ground, and you will be part of a team that supports daily operations across the establishment.

What the job involves

You may be asked to carry out a wide range of duties, including checking security at the gate, carrying out searches, handling incoming deliveries, supervising visitors, and monitoring phone activity and CCTV. The role also involves physical activity such as lifting, carrying, and walking escorts to vehicles across the prison site.

Working pattern and travel

This role includes a mix of shifts, with weekend and night working as part of the rota. Shift start and finish times are fixed, so you must be able to arrive on time for every scheduled shift. The prison is in a rural area with limited public transport, so having a driving licence and access to your own transport is helpful, although it is not required unless specifically stated for the post.

Driving licence requirement

Applicants must hold a full, valid UK driving licence that includes category D1. This category allows you to drive vehicles with up to 16 passenger seats, a maximum length of 8 metres, and a trailer weighing up to 750kg.

Who this role suits

No formal qualifications are needed. This opportunity may suit someone who communicates well, stays composed when things get busy, uses common sense, and works well as part of a team. The role can also be a strong starting point for someone looking to build a long-term career in the prison service.

Career development

Working as an OSG gives you practical insight into how a prison operates and can open doors to other roles within the prison system, including the opportunity to apply for the OSG to Prison Officer conversion scheme.

Pay and benefits

The salary for this position is £29,432. Alongside base pay, the role comes with training and development opportunities, progression potential, 25 days of annual leave on appointment rising to 30 days after 10 years of service on a pro-rata basis, 9 days of bank, public and privilege holidays, access to a paid Level 2 apprenticeship in customer service, and the Civil Service pension scheme. Additional benefits include season ticket loans, retail discounts, an Employee Assistance Programme, and a Cycle to Work scheme.

Additional information

Compared with prison officers, contact with prisoners in this role is limited, although there may be occasional interaction depending on the prison. The post is intended for someone who wants to contribute to public safety by supporting the important work carried out in prisons every day.