Prison Support - HMP Bullingdon

Role overview

This position is for an Operational Support Grade at HMP Bullingdon within His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service. The role is central to the smooth, safe, and efficient day-to-day operation of a busy prison environment. It blends administrative-style tasks with active, hands-on duties and forms part of a supportive team.

What the job involves

You may be responsible for security checks at entry points, carrying out searches, handling deliveries, overseeing visitor movement, and keeping an eye on phone activity and CCTV. The work is varied and can include both desk-based tasks and physical activity such as lifting, carrying, and walking across the prison grounds to escort vehicles.

Working pattern and location notes

This role is based at HMP Bullingdon in High Wycombe, England, United Kingdom. Some prison sites are in rural areas where public transport options can be limited, so having a driving licence and your own transport can be helpful, although this is not mandatory unless specifically stated. Shift start and finish times are fixed, so punctual travel arrangements are essential. The role includes a range of shifts, including nights and weekends.

Licence requirement

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

Who this role suits

No formal qualifications are required. This could be a strong fit for someone who communicates well, stays composed in pressured situations, uses sound judgement, applies common sense, and works well as part of a team. The role is fast-moving and suits people looking for a practical career in prison operations.

Career development

Although contact with prisoners is limited compared with prison officers, there may be occasional interaction depending on the prison. The role offers a strong introduction to how a prison operates and may open doors to other prison-based careers, including the OSG to Prison Officer conversion route.

Pay and benefits

The salary for this role is £29,432. Along with base pay, the employer provides training, progression opportunities, and development support. Benefits include 25 days of annual leave on appointment, rising to 30 days after 10 years of service on a pro-rata basis, plus 9 days of bank, public, and privilege holidays. Additional support includes 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 opportunity is described as an extraordinary job with a chance to contribute to public safety and support important work happening every day inside prisons.