Prison Support Officer - HMP Erlestoke

Role Overview

Join HMP Erlestoke as an Operational Support Grade (OSG), where you will be instrumental in ensuring the smooth and secure operation of this busy prison. Your duties will span a variety of tasks that blend administrative responsibilities with physical activities such as overseeing security checks, managing deliveries, supervising visitors, and monitoring phone calls and CCTV footage. The role requires walking throughout prison grounds and handling goods, making it both dynamic and physically engaging.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct security and search procedures at the prison entrance.
• Manage incoming and outgoing deliveries efficiently.
• Supervise visitors to ensure compliance with prison protocols.
• Monitor telephone communications and CCTV systems for security purposes.
• Escort vehicles safely across the prison premises.

Candidate Profile

This role does not require formal qualifications but demands strong communication skills and the ability to remain composed under pressure. Candidates should possess sound judgment, practical common sense, and excel in teamwork within a fast-paced working environment.

Work Schedule

The position involves working varied shifts, including weekends and night shifts, to maintain continuous operations.

Career Progression and Benefits

This unique role offers valuable insights into prison operations with limited prisoner contact, depending on the establishment. It serves as a solid stepping stone toward other career paths within the prison service, including the possibility to transition to a Prison Officer via an internal conversion scheme.

• Starting salary at 30,491 annually.
• Initial annual leave entitlement of 25 days, increasing to 30 days after 10 years of service (pro-rated).
• Additional 9 days for bank, public, and privilege holidays.
• Access to a paid Level 2 customer service apprenticeship program.
• Eligibility for the Civil Service pension plan, travel season ticket loans, retail discounts, Employee Assistance Programme, and Cycle to Work scheme.

Additional Information

This position offers high-impact work contributing to public safety and effective prison operations, with comprehensive training and development opportunities provided by His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service.