Prison Support - HMP Erlestoke

Role overview

HMP Erlestoke is hiring an Operational Support Grade (OSG) to help keep the prison operating safely and efficiently. This is a busy, hands-on support position within His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service, offering a mix of office-based tasks and practical duties across the site.

What the role involves

You will work as part of a team carrying out a wide range of day-to-day support activities. These can include security checks and searches at the gate, handling deliveries, supervising visitors, and monitoring phone calls and CCTV. The work is varied and active, and may involve lifting, carrying, and walking to escort vehicles across the prison grounds.

Who this role suits

No formal qualifications are required. The role may be a strong fit if you communicate well, stay composed in pressured situations, use sound judgement, and work effectively with others. The environment is fast-moving, so common sense and teamwork are especially important.

Working pattern

This post involves a mix of shifts, including weekends and night duties, to support the prison around the clock.

Career value

This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to public safety and support important work happening inside the prison system. While contact with prisoners is usually limited, occasional interaction may happen depending on the site. The role also builds practical knowledge of prison operations and may open routes into other prison careers, including the OSG to Prison Officer conversion scheme.

Training and development

You will receive training and have access to development and progression opportunities.

Pay and benefits

The salary for this role is £30,491. Alongside base pay, the package includes annual leave of 25 days at the start, 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, the Civil Service pension scheme, season ticket loans, retail discounts, an Employee Assistance Programme, and a Cycle to Work scheme.