Prison Custody Officer reference: 2841

Career Opportunity: Prison Custody Officer at HMP Rye Hill

Are you seeking a career where you can make a tangible difference in people's lives and contribute to the rehabilitation and safety of your community? HMP Rye Hill, located within reasonable travelling distance of a number of key towns and cities including Rugby, Northampton, Coventry, and Leicester, is actively recruiting for dedicated individuals to join their team as Prison Custody Officers (PCOs).

This role offers a unique chance to be part of a forward-thinking correctional environment that prioritizes rehabilitation and re-integration into society. If you possess integrity, resilience, and strong communication skills, and are looking for a secure and fulfilling career path, this opportunity at HMP Rye Hill could be an excellent fit for you.

Key Advantages for Potential Candidates:

• Meaningful Impact: As a PCO, you will play a crucial role in providing structure, support, and guidance to individuals in your care, directly contributing to their rehabilitation journey and helping them re-integrate into society.
• Comprehensive Training and Development: No prior experience or specific qualifications are required. You will undergo a comprehensive 10-week Initial Training Course (ITC) covering essential skills such as Control & Restraint, First Aid, Interpersonal Skills, and Health & Safety. Additionally, you will work towards a recognised Level 3 Custodial Management qualification, supported by experienced coaches and mentors.
• Clear Career Progression: HMP Rye Hill offers a structured Development Pathway that clearly outlines career progression from Prison Custody Officer to middle management positions, providing long-term growth opportunities.
• Competitive Starting Salary and Incremental Increases: The starting salary is £30,027.29 per annum (£14.44 per hour), with incremental pay rises at year 1 and year 2, reaching £32,025.97 per annum (£15.40 per hour) after two years of service.
• Potential for Increased Hours and Salary: Upon successful completion of probation, there is an option to increase your contract to 44 hours per week, with a starting salary of £33,030.00 per annum, rising to £35,228.57 per annum after two years' service.
• Excellent Benefits Package: The role comes with a comprehensive benefits package including a company pension, 30 days of annual leave (inclusive of bank holidays), company sick pay, life assurance, free on-site parking, a staff canteen, free uniform, and a free on-site gym. You will also benefit from a PERKS at work scheme, Blue Light Card discounts, and local shopping discounts.
• Secure and Supportive Environment: You will be joining a secure, friendly, and professional working environment with ample support, training, and encouragement to build a successful career.
• Commitment to Equality and Diversity: HMP Rye Hill is an inclusive employer that actively encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds and is committed to supporting employees to be their true selves. Reasonable adjustments can be discussed for the role or during the recruitment process.
• Strategic Location: The prison is strategically located, making it accessible from various towns and cities, offering flexibility in your commute.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Shift Work: The role involves working a variety of shifts, including weekends, evenings, and nights, on a rolling pattern. While shifts are agreed in advance with at least 30 days' notice for any changes, flexibility and adaptability are essential.
• Commitment to Rehabilitation Philosophy: Candidates should be aligned with the prison's philosophy of rehabilitation and aim to create an environment that normalizes prison conditions and prepares individuals for re-integration into society.
• Security Vetting: Please note that these vacancies are subject to strict vetting standards, including a 10-year checkable history. Applicants must be eligible to work in the UK and will need to provide full details of their employment and education history for the last 10 years.
• Training Salary: During the initial 10-week training period, the salary will be £26,273.88 per annum, based on 35 hours per week, increasing to the advertised starting salary upon successful completion of training.
• Teamwork and Communication: The role requires strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build positive and supportive relationships with both colleagues and prisoners, while maintaining a safe and secure environment.

This is an exceptional opportunity for individuals looking to embark on a challenging yet incredibly rewarding career. If you are motivated by the prospect of making a positive impact and are ready to embrace a role that demands integrity, resilience, and dedication, we encourage you to explore this exciting position at HMP Rye Hill.