UK Career Advice

Police Custody Officer: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path

Career Overview
Interview Questions

What is a Police Custody Officer?

A Police Custody Officer is responsible for supervising and ensuring the wellbeing of detainees in police custody, while maintaining security and order within the facility. This role helps in conducting necessary interviews and investigations while working closely with other law enforcement officers.

How do I become a Police Custody Officer?

A Police Custody Officer is responsible for supervising and ensuring the wellbeing of detainees in police custody, while maintaining security and order within the facility. This role helps in conducting necessary interviews and investigations while working closely with other law enforcement officers.

What would you like to know?

What does it take to become an Police Custody Officer?

Skills, education, personality, career progression

Job demand for an Police Custody Officer

Job ads, popular location, season to apply



Skills

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to remain calm and composed in high-pressure situations
  • Attention to detail and ability to follow procedures accurately
  • Physical fitness and ability to handle potentially violent situations
  • Knowledge of relevant laws and regulations
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a team
  • Good judgement and decision-making skills
  • Empathy and sensitivity towards individuals in custody
  • Strong organizational and administrative skills
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information

Qualifications & Education

  • No academic requirements for entry to civilian police in the UK
  • Eligibility criteria vary across individual police forces
  • Entrants must sit an entry test
  • Entrants must pass a medical examination
  • All police officers undergo a two year probationary training period
  • Residency, nationality, and age restrictions apply
  • Background security checks are carried out in respect of entrants

Career Path

Police Custody Officer
Police Constable
Detective
Senior Investigating Officer
Detective Chief Inspector
Detective Superintendent
Detective Chief Superintendent
Assistant Chief Constable
Deputy Chief Constable
Chief Constable
Prison Officer
Prison Governor
Probation Officer
Security Officer

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you become a police custody officer?

To become a police custody officer in the UK, you need to complete an initial five-week training course and a mentorship period in custody. Regular refresher days are also required for first aid and personal safety training. The role provides valuable insight into policing and career progression opportunities.

What qualifications do I need to be a custody sergeant?

To become a custody sergeant in the UK as a Police Custody Officer, you need to have operational experience at the Constable level and meet all necessary local and national promotion requirements as defined in the National Police Promotions Framework or previous OSPRE process. There are no specific additional qualifications required beyond this.

What rank must a custody officer be?

There is no specific rank requirement for a police custody officer in the UK. Any police officer of any rank can perform the role if they are trained, capable, and competent.

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