Job Introduction
Prison Custody Officer
HMP Northumberland | Sodexo Justice Services
Salary: £29463.89 per annum - Rising to £30227.52 after 1 year
Location: Northumberland, NE65 9XG
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Must be 18 years old to apply
Please note that we are unable to offer sponsorship for this position.
Join Our Growing Team and Make a Lasting Difference
Due to ongoing growth and increased investment in our services, we're expanding our Prison Custody Officer team at HMP Northumberland. This is an exciting opportunity to join a supportive and professional team where your work will have a real impact every single day.
As a Prison Custody Officer (PCO), you'll do far more than maintain security. You'll help create a safe, respectful environment while supporting prisoners to make positive changes, develop new skills and prepare for life beyond custody. Your role will directly contribute to rehabilitation, helping to reduce reoffending and build safer communities.
About HMP Northumberland
HMP Northumberland is a busy, dynamic prison operated by Sodexo Justice Services, committed to providing a safe, secure and decent environment for prisoners, staff and visitors. We believe rehabilitation starts with positive relationships, respect and opportunity, and our Prison Custody Officers are at the heart of making this happen.
Your Role as a Prison Custody Officer
As a Prison Custody Officer, you'll play a vital role in the daily operation of the prison by:
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Maintaining the safety, security and wellbeing of prisoners, staff and visitors.
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Supervising prisoner movements and ensuring all prisoners are accounted for throughout the day.
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Building professional, respectful relationships as a trusted Key Worker.
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Supporting prisoners to engage with education, employment, training and rehabilitation programmes.
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Encouraging positive behaviour and helping individuals work towards their personal progression goals.
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Responding professionally and confidently to incidents using approved techniques where required.
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Completing accurate reports and maintaining prison records.
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Escorting prisoners within the establishment and externally when necessary.
Working collaboratively with colleagues and partner agencies to support rehabilitation and reduce reoffending.
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What We're Looking For
Our colleagues come from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. What they have in common is a desire to help others, work as part of a team and make a positive difference.
To thrive in this role, you'll need to demonstrate:
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Calm Under Pressure – Manage high-stress or unpredictable situations with a level head.
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Empathy & Respect – Treat everyone with dignity, regardless of their circumstances.
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Strong Ethics – Maintain fairness, professionalism and integrity at all times.
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Resilience & Adaptability – Stay composed and effective, even when the job gets tough.
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Effective Communication – Listen actively and speak clearly and confidently.
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Conflict Resolution – Use de-escalation techniques to manage tension and disputes.
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Teamwork – Collaborate closely with colleagues for the safety and success of all.
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Vigilance – Remain observant, alert and responsive to potential risks.
At HMP Northumberland colleagues support one another, share knowledge and work together to create a safer environment for staff, visitors and prisoners. We're looking for people who understand that strong relationships, trust and collaboration are essential to success.
You'll never be expected to face challenges alone. You'll be part of a team that looks out for one another and works together towards a shared purpose.
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:
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Classroom and practical learning.
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Conflict resolution and communication training.
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Shadowing experienced officers.
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Continued development and support throughout your career.
Recruitment Process
As part of the recruitment process, you'll be invited to attend one of our assessment centres, designed to give you the opportunity to demonstrate the skills and behaviours needed to become a Prison Custody Officer, while also giving you a better understanding of what it's like to work at HMP Northumberland.
The assessment centre consists of two stages:
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Scenario-Based Exercises – Giving you the opportunity to demonstrate your judgement, communication, teamwork and decision-making through realistic prison-based scenarios.
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Competency-Based Interview – An opportunity to discuss your experience, strengths and motivation for joining Sodexo.
Throughout the day, you'll also have the opportunity to meet members of the team, ask questions and gain a real insight into life as a Prison Custody Officer. Our assessment centres are designed to be supportive, engaging and give every candidate the opportunity to demonstrate their potential.
We believe great prisons are built by great people.
That's why we're constantly investing in creating a culture where colleagues feel valued, empowered and connected. We want every colleague to have the opportunity to develop, contribute and make a meaningful impact every day.
A Career That Makes a Difference
Every day brings new challenges and new opportunities.
You'll work with people from a wide range of backgrounds, including those experiencing mental health challenges, substance misuse, trauma and complex personal circumstances. Through comprehensive training and ongoing support, you'll develop the skills and confidence to manage these situations safely while helping people move towards a more positive future.
Join our expanding team at HMP Northumberland and be part of something that makes a real difference—every single day. Apply now.
