Prisoner Escort and Custody Officer

Role Overview

Based at Exeter Vehicle Base (EX5 1EW), the Prisoner Escort and Custody Officer (PCO) serves a critical function within Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS) by facilitating secure and safe transportation and custody of detainees. This role requires flexibility for shift work across early and late shifts operating six days a week with potential overtime to meet operational needs.

Compensation and Working Hours

• Starting training salary at 24596 for 35 hours per week.
• Base salary post-training is 28109 for 40 hours per week, increasing to 29205 from September 2026, with clear scheduled annual increments up to 31063 in year 4.
• Additional driving allowances depending on licence type: 600 annually for B/B1 licence holders and 2400 annually for C1 licence holders.
• Average first-year total earnings including overtime (approx. 8 hours weekly) range from 34805 to 36605.

Main Duties

• Participate in operational briefings and receive detailed information regarding detainees, routes, and risk factors.
• Conduct vehicle and equipment inspections prior to starting shifts.
• Search, collect, and safely escort detainees between police stations, courts, and prisons.
• Ensure detainee welfare during transport by carrying out regular checks and facilitating comfort breaks.
• Manage detainees within courts or holding cells as needed until their return to custody or release.
• Complete shift-end checks, submit reports, and maintain accurate paperwork.
• Work flexibly including possible extended hours and emergency response duties.

Candidate Requirements

• Full valid UK driving licence (B1 initially; C1 preferred for some roles).
• C1 drivers ideally hold a Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC).
• Physical fitness suitable to meet the demands of the position.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to remain composed and make sound decisions under pressure.
• Competence in managing challenging behaviour and de-escalation techniques.
• Strong team collaboration skills and attention to procedural compliance.
• High standards of professionalism, integrity, and respect for confidentiality.

Benefits

• Annual leave starting at 20 days, increasing to 25 days after seven years, plus pro-rated bank holidays.
• Pension scheme with up to 6% contributions matched by employer.
• Comprehensive paid induction training (5.5 weeks) with ongoing professional development opportunities, internal courses, mentoring, and career progression focus.
• Health and wellbeing support via Employee Assistance Programme, mental health charity support, cash and dental plans, wellbeing resources, and gym discounts.
• Access to discounts on retail, entertainment, leisure, restaurants, and more.

Recruitment Process & Additional Information

• Application includes eligibility screening and online assessments.
• Virtual assessments comprising competency interviews, role plays, and written exercises.
• Verification of right to work, vetting, references, and occupational health examinations.
• Employment offers subject to enhanced Ministry of Justice background checks and DBS clearance. The role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and subject to random drug and alcohol testing.
• Applicants must have the right to work in the UK under existing regulations, with specific criteria for visa holders regarding length of visa and residency.
• Commitment to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults is essential, including mandatory safeguarding training compliance.

About the Employer

Serco employs a diverse workforce delivering vital public services worldwide in defence, transport, justice, immigration, healthcare, and citizen services. The company supports employee networks promoting diversity, inclusion, and belonging, and holds accreditation as a Disability Confident Leader and Gold Inclusive Employer.

Equal Opportunity and Accessibility

Serco actively encourages applications from a broad range of candidates and provides reasonable adjustments throughout recruitment and employment. Disabled candidates meeting essential criteria will have opportunities to demonstrate their skills.

Disclaimer

The role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Interested candidates must apply promptly as application deadlines may be brought forward due to volume.