Prison Support - HMP Wayland

Role overview

This position is for an Operational Support Grade at HMP Wayland within His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service. The work is varied, practical, and essential to the smooth daily operation of the prison.

What the role involves

You will support prison operations through a mix of desk-based and hands-on duties. Typical tasks include carrying out gate security and searches, handling deliveries, supervising visitors, and keeping watch through CCTV and phone monitoring. The role can also involve physical activity such as lifting, carrying, and walking to escort vehicles across the prison grounds.

Working pattern and travel

This post involves fixed shift start and finish times, so punctual travel to and from the workplace is essential. Because some prisons are in rural areas with limited public transport, having a driving licence and your own vehicle can be helpful, although it is not mandatory unless stated otherwise for the vacancy. The job includes a range of shifts, including nights and weekends.

Who this role suits

No formal qualifications are needed. This could be a strong fit if you communicate clearly, stay composed under pressure, use common sense and good judgement, and work well as part of a team.

Career development

This role offers a chance to build practical knowledge of how a prison functions and to gain experience that can support future progression into other prison-based jobs. It may also open the door to applying for the OSG to Prison Officer conversion route.

Training and support

New starters receive solid training along with development and progression opportunities.

Pay and benefits

The advertised salary is £29,432. Alongside base pay, the package includes 25 days of annual leave on joining, rising to 30 days after 10 years of service on a pro-rata basis, plus 9 days of bank, public and privilege holidays. Additional benefits include access to a paid Level 2 apprenticeship in customer service, a Civil Service pension, season ticket loans, retail discounts, an Employee Assistance Programme, and a Cycle to Work scheme.

Additional information

You will usually have limited contact with prisoners compared with prison officers, though occasional interaction may occur depending on the establishment.

This is an opportunity to contribute to public safety by helping support the important work carried out every day inside prisons.