Prison Support Officer - HMP Isle of Wight

About the Role

Join His Majesty's Prison and Probation Service at HMP Isle of Wight as an Operational Support Grade (OSG). This vital position contributes to the daily operations of a busy prison, encompassing responsibilities such as security and gate searches, managing deliveries, supervising visitors, and monitoring both phone calls and CCTV. The role involves a mix of administrative tasks and physical duties including lifting, carrying, and escorting vehicles across the prison grounds.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform security and searches at the prison entrance.
• Handle and manage incoming deliveries.
• Supervise visitor access and ensure compliance with regulations.
• Monitor telephone communications and CCTV footage for security purposes.
• Drive vehicles within prison grounds, requiring a valid UK driving licence.
• Work varied shifts including nights and weekends to support continuous operations.

Candidate Profile

No formal qualifications are required. The ideal candidate communicates effectively, demonstrates calmness under pressure, exercises good judgment and common sense, and thrives in a team-oriented environment. Interaction with prisoners may occur occasionally depending on the facility, though it is limited.

Career Progression

The OSG role provides extensive insight into prison operations and can be a stepping stone towards other roles within the prison service, including the opportunity to transition into the Prison Officer role through a conversion scheme.

Benefits and Additional Information

• Starting salary of £29,432.
• Annual leave of 25 days initially, increasing to 30 days after 10 years of service (pro-rated).
• 9 days of bank, public and privilege holidays.
• Access to a paid Level 2 apprenticeship in customer service.
• Enrollment in the Civil Service pension scheme.
• Additional benefits including season ticket loans, retail discounts, an Employee Assistance Programme, and participation in the Cycle to Work scheme.