Prison Custody Officer: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path
Learn about the key skills, qualifications, and career path for a Prison Custody Officer
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Practice Now »What is a Prison Custody Officer?
As a Prison Custody Officer in the UK, you'll be responsible for supervising and ensuring the safety of inmates within prisons and other detention centres. Your job will involve maintaining order, enforcing discipline, and participating in various security measures to keep the prison environment secure.
Skills
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to remain calm and composed in high-pressure situations
- Physical fitness and stamina
- Attention to detail and ability to follow procedures
- Conflict resolution and de-escalation skills
- Ability to work as part of a team
- Good judgement and decision-making abilities
- Knowledge of security and safety protocols
- Ability to handle and restrain individuals
- Emotional resilience and ability to cope with challenging situations
Qualifications & Education
- No formal academic requirements for entry
- Must pass a pre-entry test
- Must pass a full medical examination
- Basic training provided
- 12 month probationary period with on-the-job training
- Background checks required
- Nationality restrictions may apply
- Lower age limit of 18 years
Career Path
Frequently Asked Questions
To become a custody detention 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 a valuable insight into policing and can lead to career progression opportunities.
Yes, a prison custody officer can be a good job for those who enjoy working with different people, facing challenges, and seeing prisoners improve. It also offers security and stability in terms of work routines.
A prison custody officer in the UK is responsible for maintaining the supervision and control of prisoners, ensuring that they can be accounted for at all times. This involves unlocking and locking prisoners, supervising their movements, and conducting roll counts throughout the day.
The career progression for a prison custody officer in the UK includes opportunities to train and specialize in rehabilitation work, become a supervising officer, custodial manager, head of function, deputy governor, or prisoner governor with experience.
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