Detention Custody Officer (DCO)
Location: Derwentside Immigration Removal Centre, Corbridge Rd, Consett DH8 6QY
Schedule: Full-time, permanent, variety of shift patterns
Salary: £27,484, rising to £28,857.57 after two years of service
This isn’t just security work.
It’s people work.
You’ll support individuals during some of the most difficult moments of their lives — staying calm, showing respect, and making a real difference every day.
Why this role matters
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You create a safe, secure environment
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You treat everyone with dignity and respect
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You support people who may be scared, frustrated or vulnerable
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You rely on communication and empathy — not just authority
What you’ll actually do
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Maintain safety and security across the centre
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Build professional, respectful relationships
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De-escalate challenging situations calmly
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Support people from diverse cultures and backgrounds
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Stay alert, hands-on, and ready for anything
You’re made for this if you are…
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Calm under pressure
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Able to listen without judgement
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Confident handling difficult situations
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Respectful of every background and culture
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Motivated to help people through tough moments
No experience? No problem. If this sounds like you - you’re made for this.
What shifts look like
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40 hours per week (average)
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Day + night shifts (6–12 hours)
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Fair, structured rota
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Paid breaks on night shifts
What you’ll get
Training and development:
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The next training start date is 2nd November 2026
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7 week fully paid training programme
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Learn conflict resolution, communication, cultural awareness
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Clear pathways into leadership & specialist roles
Benefits:
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224 hours annual leave (incl. bank holidays)
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Pension (matched up to 6%)
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Free on-site parking
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Subsidised meals + 1 free meal per day
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Full uniform provided
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Employee discounts + Blue Light Card
Application process
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Online application
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1-hour virtual interview (Teams)
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Assessment day (group tasks, fitness test, site tour)
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7-week training (full attendance required)
Eligibility and checks (important)
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Must already have the right to work in the UK (no visa sponsorship)
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Typically requires:
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Indefinite leave to remain
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3+ years living in the UK
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Security clearance required:
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Home Office CTC
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Enhanced DBS (adult and child barring)
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5 years checkable history
A little bit about us:
At Serco, everyone plays a vital part in delivering essential public services that make a real difference. As a global team of 50,000 people across Defence, Transport, Justice, Immigration, Healthcare, Leisure and Citizen Services, we’re united by a shared purpose: to improve the services that communities rely on. Guided by our values of Trust, Care, Innovation and Pride, our people make meaningful impact, every single day.
Our inclusive recruitment commitment:
We prioritise your skills and potential. As a Disability Confident Leader, a top Great British Employer of Veterans, and a Gold Inclusive Employer Standard holder, we champion equal opportunities for all. We offer flexible and hybrid working where possible and make reasonable adjustments throughout recruitment and employment.
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Guaranteed Interview Scheme: Applicants with disabilities, veterans and people with convictions, who meet the minimum job criteria, are guaranteed an interview. Simply opt into the relevant scheme on the application form.
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Ban The Box: We also support fair access for those with unspent criminal convictions through our ‘Ban the Box’ pledge (some roles may have security exemptions).
For support with your application, please contact j&[email protected].
Start a career where your work truly matters. Apply today.
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