Prison Support - HMP Isle of Wight

Role overview

This position is for an Operational Support Grade at HMP Isle of Wight, where you will help keep a busy prison operating safely and efficiently. The work is varied and hands-on, blending desk-based tasks with more physical duties such as lifting, carrying, and walking across the site to escort vehicles.

What the role involves

You will be part of a supportive team carrying out a wide range of everyday operational tasks. These include security checks and gate searches, handling deliveries, supervising visitors, and monitoring phone activity and CCTV. The role is active, fast-moving, and central to the smooth running of the prison.

Driving is an essential part of the job at HMP Isle of Wight, so applicants must hold a full, valid UK driving licence.

Who this role suits

No formal qualifications are required. The service is looking for someone who communicates well, stays composed under pressure, uses sound judgement, and works well as part of a team. This can be a strong entry point into a prison career for the right person.

Working pattern and environment

The role involves a mix of shifts, including nights and weekends, to support continuous operations. Contact with prisoners is limited compared with prison officer roles, although occasional interaction may happen depending on the site.

Career development

This role offers practical insight into how a prison functions and can open the door to progression into other prison-based jobs. It may also create a route to apply for the OSG to Prison Officer conversion scheme.

Training and progression

You will receive structured training along with development and progression opportunities.

Pay and benefits

The salary for this role is £29,432. Alongside base pay, the package includes annual leave that starts at 25 days on appointment and rises to 30 days after 10 years of service, calculated pro rata. You will also receive 9 bank, public and privilege holidays, access to a paid Level 2 apprenticeship in customer service, the Civil Service pension scheme, season ticket loans, retail discounts, an Employee Assistance Programme, and a Cycle to Work scheme.

Additional information

This is a role described by HM Prison and Probation Service as an extraordinary job carried out by someone like you.