Prison Custody Officer - Part Time

Opportunity Review: Part-Time Prison Custody Officer at HMP and YOI Parc Bridgend

This review provides an in-depth look at the Part-Time Prison Custody Officer role at HMP and YOI Parc Bridgend, offering insights for potential candidates to understand the position and how it aligns with their career aspirations.

What Makes This Role Stand Out?

This opportunity offers a unique chance to make a tangible difference in individuals' lives and contribute to a safer society. The role of a Prison Custody Officer is multifaceted, demanding resilience, strong communication skills, and a commitment to treating all individuals with dignity and respect. For those seeking a career with purpose, this position provides a platform to directly impact prisoner rehabilitation and reintegration.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Meaningful Impact: You will be instrumental in supporting offender reform, promoting a rehabilitative culture, and assisting individuals in finding a new path in life.
• Comprehensive Training: The role includes a robust 10-week initial training program covering essential skills like Control & Restraint, First Aid, Interpersonal Skills, and Health & Safety. This ensures you are well-prepared for the responsibilities ahead.
• Structured Career Development: A dedicated Development Pathway is in place, offering a clear route for career advancement from Prison Custody Officer to middle management, fostering long-term professional growth.
• Financial Incentives: A £1000 bonus is awarded upon successful completion of your first 12 months of service and probation. Additionally, the salary increases incrementally after 1, 3, and 5 years of service, reflecting your commitment and experience.
• Flexible Working: The part-time nature of this role (20 hours per week) with available shifts, including weekends only, provides flexibility for those balancing other commitments or seeking supplementary employment.
• Attractive Benefits Package: Candidates will benefit from a company pension, 132 hours of annual leave (including bank holidays), company sick pay, life assurance, free on-site parking, a staff canteen, free uniform, and a free on-site gym.
• Discount Opportunities: The role provides access to a "PERKS at work" scheme with high street discounts, a Blue Light Card for extensive savings, and local shopping discounts, enhancing your overall financial well-being.
• Inclusive Environment: The employer actively encourages applications from all backgrounds and is committed to equality and diversity, offering support for reasonable adjustments.

Key Considerations for Aspiring Candidates:

• Resilience and Communication: The role demands a high level of resilience to handle challenging situations and excellent communication and listening skills to interact effectively with a diverse population.
• Initial Full-Time Training: Be aware that the initial 12 weeks of employment require full-time hours (40 per week) for comprehensive training, compensated at a full-time annual rate. Following this, you will transition to your contracted part-time hours.
• Shift Work: While part-time, the role involves various shifts and weekend-only availability. Candidates should consider how this will fit into their personal schedule.
• Vetting and Security: This position is subject to strict vetting standards and requires a 5-year checkable history. Eligibility to work in the UK is also a mandatory requirement.
• Safeguarding Responsibilities: A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the well-being of children and adults at risk is paramount. Understanding and adhering to organizational safeguarding policies is essential.
• Diverse Responsibilities: The role encompasses a wide array of duties, from maintaining security and completing reports to supporting prisoners' well-being, addressing substance misuse, and responding to emergencies. A willingness to undertake varied tasks is crucial.

Career Path Guidance:

For individuals considering a career in the public sector or wanting a role with significant social impact, this Part-Time Prison Custody Officer position is an excellent entry point. The comprehensive training and development pathway offer a solid foundation for a long-term career within the correctional services. The opportunity to gain invaluable experience in communication, conflict resolution, and support services can translate into transferable skills applicable to various other roles in the future.

This role is ideal for proactive individuals who are seeking a stable and rewarding part-time opportunity that contributes positively to society.