HMP | Prison Officer Position

Location: HMP Swinfen Hall (YOI), Lichfield, Staffordshire, WS14 9QS
Salary: £32,448 – £36,541 per year
Closing Date: 24th January 2025

About the Role

Becoming a prison officer is more than just a job—it’s an extraordinary opportunity to protect the public while making a positive impact on prisoners’ lives. At HMP Swinfen Hall, you’ll work in a fast-paced and unique environment, where no two days are the same. From maintaining safety and security to acting as a counselor, teacher, and mentor, you’ll support individuals during some of their toughest moments.

Key Responsibilities

• Build constructive, professional relationships with prisoners.
• Maintain order and safety within the prison environment.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues to ensure a secure and supportive setting.
• Adapt to various roles throughout the day, including peacekeeper and mentor.

Shift Patterns:
This role involves various shifts, including evenings, weekends, and some nights. Flexibility is essential, as prisons operate 24/7.

Who We’re Looking For

There’s no such thing as a typical prison officer. Whether you’re from the armed forces, teaching, retail, or any other background, what matters most are your personal qualities, including:

• Strong communication and influencing skills.
• Resilience, empathy, and self-confidence.
• Ability to make effective decisions under pressure.
• Commitment to teamwork and delivering quality service.

Eligibility Requirements

To apply, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Meet the Civil Service Nationality requirements.
• Pass a medical and fitness test.
• Have suitable eyesight and hearing (without hearing aids).
• Ensure any visible tattoos are not offensive, discriminatory, or intimidating.

Additional Requirements for High-Security Prisons:
Candidates must have been a UK resident for the past three years.

Salary Details

• 39 hours per week: £34,494 annually.
• 41 hours per week: £36,541 annually.
• The role includes additional allowances and opportunities for paid overtime.

Benefits

• Annual leave: 25 days, rising to 30 after 10 years of service.
• Pension: Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme with up to 20% employer contribution.
• Paid public holidays and one extra privilege day.
• Cycle-to-work scheme, travel loans, and other perks.

Assessment Process

1. Online Tests: Assess basic judgment and numerical skills.
2. Task-Based Assessment: Evaluate natural behaviors and qualities.
3. Online Assessment Centre: Assess abilities, strengths, and motivation.

Merit-Based Recruitment:
Successful candidates will be ranked based on assessment scores. Job offers will be made to those with the highest scores as positions become available. Applicants remain on the merit list for up to 12 months.

Training

Initial training involves 37 hours per week. Upon completion, you can choose to work 37, 39, or 41 hours weekly, with salaries adjusted accordingly.

Diversity and Inclusion

The Civil Service is committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone’s skills and talents are valued. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and actively support diversity and inclusion through:

• The Disability Confident Scheme.
• Initiatives like “Making the Civil Service a Great Place to Work for Veterans.”

How to Apply

For more details on the recruitment process, benefits, and eligibility criteria, visit the Ministry of Justice Careers Page.

Contact Information:

• Email: Moj-recruitment-vetting-enquiries@gov.sscl.com
• Phone: 0345 241 5358 (Monday to Friday, 8 AM – 6 PM)

Take the first step toward a rewarding career that makes a real difference. Apply today!