Prison Custody Officer (PCO) - HMP Altcourse

Please note: This role is not eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route in line with current UK immigration rules.

SECURE THE PRESENT, SHAPE THE FUTURE - Transform Livesas a Prison Custody Officer!

As a Prison Custody Officer, you’ll play a crucial role in maintaining safety, security, and order within our prison facilities.This is more than just a job – it’s a meaningful opportunity to support rehabilitation, ensure justice, and contribute to the wider community.

If you're pursuing a career with meaning, we welcome you to apply for the position of Prison Custody Officer at HMP Altcourse

PLEASE NOTE THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS WILL REQUIRE FROM YOU TO:

complete the initial video interview
passing the Assessment CentreIf you are looking for a job with immediate start and/or you are unable to attend the Assessment Centre on 28/07/2026 or 04/08/2026 please DO NOT APPLY.

What You'll Do

Your responsibilities will include:

Maintaining a secure and disciplined prison environment

Supervising daily routines, prisoner movements, and scheduled activities

Escorting prisoners securely within and outside the facility

Responding calmly and professionally to challenging or high-pressure situations

Supporting rehabilitation initiatives and encouraging positive behaviours

Building respectful, professional relationships with prisoners to promote a safer, more supportive atmosphere

Who We're Looking For

There’s no such thing as a typical prison officer.Our team is made up of people from all walks of life – whether you’re a parent, former teacher, retail worker, member of the armed forces, or simply someone who thrives on helping others.

Whatever your background, if you’re a natural people person with strong communication skills, self-confidence, empathy, and resilience, we want to hear from you.

You’ll be working with individuals who may be at the lowest point in their lives.No matter the challenge, you'll be expected to build constructive, positive, and professional relationships based on fairness, consistency, and respect.

Teamwork Matters

Teamwork plays a vital role in this environment.You’ll need to be fully committed to supporting your colleagues and understand the importance of acting as one team to keep the prison safe – for staff, visitors, and prisoners alike.

The Behaviours That Make a Great Officer

To thrive in this role, you’ll need to demonstrate:

Calm Under Pressure – Manage high-stress or unpredictable situations with a level head

Empathy & Respect – Treat everyone with dignity, regardless of their circumstances

Strong Ethics – Maintain fairness, professionalism, and integrity at all times

Resilience & Adaptability – Stay composed and effective, even when the job gets tough

Effective Communication – Listen actively and speak clearly and confidently

Conflict Resolution – Use de-escalation techniques to manage tension and disputes

Teamwork – Collaborate closely with colleagues for the safety and success of all

Vigilance – Remain observant, alert, and responsive to potential risks

Training and Development

You don’t need prior experience to apply. You’ll receive a comprehensive 8-week training programme, delivered locally, to fully prepare you for the role. This includes:

Classroom and practical learning

Conflict resolution and communication training

Shadowing experienced officers

Continued development and support throughout your career

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for a position as a Prison Officer, you must meet the following requirements:

Be at least 18 years of age at the time your employment begins

Meet the required eyesight standards in both eyes, with or without corrective lenses

Have an adequate level of hearing without the use of hearing aids, for safety reasons during training and operational duties

Tattoos are permitted, including those that are visible, but must not be offensive, discriminatory, violent, or intimidating.

Facial tattoos are generally not allowed, except where they are for cultural, religious, or medical reasons

A Role That Offers More

This role provides opportunities for personal growth, career progression, and the satisfaction of knowing your work truly matters. You’ll witness change first-hand and play a key part in supporting rehabilitation and community safety.

What We Offer:

Starting salary £31,216.80 Per Annum, with annual increases over initial 5 years’ service 

Free meals (if applicable) and parking 

Access to our on-site gym and subsidised gym membership

Opportunity to earn overtime (subject to availability)

Comprehensive paid training and progression opportunities

Life assurance 

BUPA healthcare 

Pension schemes and much more!

Please see the benefits guide attached which outlines all of Sodexo's excellent benefits!

Apply now to embark on this rewarding journey as a Prison Custody Officer.

Application

To move forward with your application, we’ll need to complete a pre-screening process within a few days of your submission.You’ll receive an email with instructions on how to do this - please be sure to check your junk or spam folder in case it lands there.

You will then be invited to participate in an assessment centre.

All offers are subject to full security clearance checks.

Please note that we are unable to offer sponsorship for this position.

For further guidance on visa eligibility and sponsorship criteria, please refer to the official UK Government website