During our training we were shown the right way of doingthings and just as importantly, we were warned against doingthings the wrong way. One comment that was passed on to uswas that “people are sent to prison as punishment, not forpunishment”. The Prisoner Custody Officers (PCOs) do not sitin judgement of the prisoners. We are there to guide and assistthem through the daily routine of prison life. Which is justwhat much of a typical day is. Routine. We expect theprisoners to do certain things at certain times; and they expectthe same in return from us.

Security is of paramount importance, so it is vital that weknow how many prisoners we’ve got and that they are exactlywhere they should be. A typical day for me starts with my firsttask; inspecting every cell to ensure the wellbeing of theprisoners as well as physically checking their presence. This isfollowed by a check around the unit to make sure thateverything is safe and secure before we unlock the prisonersfor breakfast and the start of their day.

Employment is available in the prison workshops, along witheducation facilities which can cover everything from basicliteracy lessons to Open University tuition. Prisoners are alsoemployed on the residential units themselves, keeping livingareas clean and tidy and serving the meals.

It’s all part of improving every day life for the prisoners,preparing them for the structure of life ‘on the outside’ whenthey are released. However, at 7.30am all that is on theprisoners’ minds is breakfast and it is crucial that the PCOsmake sure that everything is available on time. Getting thesimplest things right and ensuring there are no delays right at the start can make a huge difference to the whole patternof the day.

At lunchtime all the prisoners return to their units for theirmidday meals. After lunch, all prisoners are locked up again sothat another check can be made that everyone is still present.When everyone is accounted for, the prisoners return to workfor the afternoon period.

At the end of the prisoners’ working day, they return to theunit for their evening meal, after which the unit is open for freetime/association. Here the prisoners can make use of facilitiessuch as pool and table football. The PCOs’ working day endswith the evening lock up, when prisoners make their way totheir cells for a final headcount and some ‘alone time’ after abusy day spent in the company of their neighbours.

“Getting the simplest things right and

ensuring there are no delays at the start

can make a huge difference to the whole

pattern of the day.”

Ruth JonesPrisoner Custody Officer

A day in the life of a

PrisonerCustodyOfficer (Prisons)

No two days are the same for a Prisoner Custody

Officer (PCO). Our operating philosophy seeks to

normalise life inside prison to reflect life in the

outside community whilst maintaining a safe and

secure environment for everyone.

Are you the person we’re looking for?

Being a PCO isn’t always plain sailing. It requires excellentinterpersonal and communication skills, determination,motivation, initiative, adaptability and flexibility. You’ll be dealingwith a wide variety of people as well as following processesand procedures in line with training and regulations, so theability to follow instructions is essential.

We need people from a broad range of backgrounds with life experience who are good at listening to others, vigilant, non-judgmental and able to remain calm and in control underpressure. As part of our team of PCOs you’ll face manychallenges so you’ll need to be able to think on your feet anduse your initiative.

What will I be doing?

Controlling the internal and external movements of prisonersSearching prisoners, cells and premises, confiscating prohibited itemsHelping prisoners to address offending behaviour whilst reinforcing positive behaviourSupporting and protecting prisoners who are experiencing difficulties and/or abuseContributing to the control of incidents and emergencies when requiredCommunicating effectively with people and working well as part of a dedicated teamCompleting and maintaining prisoner records, documentation and reportsEscorting prisoners to hospital appointments and other locations

Prisoner Custody Officer | About the job

Frequently asked questions

What are the hours and shifts like?Hours are usually based on a shift pattern which covers days,nights, evenings and weekends. Your working hours will dependon the position that you’ve applied for.

Do I need previous experience in this type of work?No. We welcome people from all backgrounds with lifeexperience. Your positive attitude, motivation and non-judgmental, disciplined approach are essential to succeed.

What training will I receive?In order to become a PCO, you’ll attend our comprehensiveHome Office approved Initial Training Course (ITC) whichcovers skills such as communication, security, first aid andcontrol and restraint. The ITC is followed by shadow trainingwhere you will be paired with an experienced PCO in orderto gain practical experience in all aspects of the job.

Is there a review programme for PCOs?Once you have started your ITC, you’ll have a weekly supportreview which will continue throughout your training and duringthe first six months in your new role. We also hold annualreviews to inform you of your progress and highlight anydevelopment opportunities as well as discussing your futureplans and requirements.

Are there any opportunities for promotion or development?We have a management development programme which isdesigned to help you develop the necessary skills andexperience required in management roles. There are alsoopportunities to transfer to other areas of the prison such asvisits or admissions as well as additional training programmes if you wish to become a first aid assessor, fire marshall or gym instructor.

What are the benefits of working for G4S?We invest heavily in our people and offer benefits that youwould expect from a large quality organisation includinggenerous holiday entitlement, life assurance, company pension,sick pay scheme, comprehensive training, career developmentand a uniform.