Prison Officer – HMP Long Lartin | Apply Now

Location: South Littleton, Worcester WR11 8TZ

Salary: £32,448 – £36,541 a year

Job Type: Full-time, Part-time, Job share, Flexible working

Department: Ministry of Justice – His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS)

Closing Date: 25 June 2025

About the Role

This is not your typical job. Prison officers at HMP Long Lartin do much more than maintain order. They help change lives. This is a demanding role that calls for empathy, resilience, and the ability to make sound decisions under pressure. Officers come from all walks of life and bring a range of skills. What unites them is the desire to make a difference.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise prisoners and maintain safety and security
• Build positive and professional relationships with offenders
• Promote rehabilitation and support behaviour change
• Manage incidents calmly and effectively
• Work as part of a close-knit, supportive team

Eligibility Criteria

• Must be at least 18 years old on the start date
• Must have lived in the UK continuously for the past 3 years (due to CTC vetting requirements)
• Must meet Civil Service nationality rules
• Must pass a medical, fitness test, eyesight check, and hearing screening
• Facial tattoos are not permitted unless for religious, cultural, or medical reasons

Personal Qualities

• Strong communication and influencing skills
• Good judgement and decision-making
• Resilience and adaptability
• Empathy and understanding
• Ability to work well under pressure

Working Hours & Shift Pattern

Prisons operate 24/7. Officers typically work a changing shift pattern, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays. Following initial training (37 hours a week), officers can choose to work:

• 37 hours: £32,448 per year
• 39 hours: £34,494 per year
• 41 hours: £36,541 per year

Training and Career Development

All new officers complete initial training, which covers everything from safety and security to communication skills. There are also opportunities to progress into specialist roles or leadership positions.

Benefits

• 25 days’ annual leave, increasing with service
• One paid privilege day
• Public holidays off (pro-rata for shift workers)
• 28.97% employer contribution to the Civil Service Pension
• Cycle to work scheme and travel loans
• Option to work paid overtime

Application Process

Candidates will go through a multi-stage process:

1. Online Tests: Assess judgement and numeracy
2. Task-Based Assessment: Measures natural behaviours
3. Online Assessment Centre (OAC): Assesses communication, care, and decision-making skills
4. Medical and Fitness Tests: Conducted in the UK

If successful, candidates are placed on a merit list and may be offered a position based on their score. The list remains valid for 12 months.

Security Clearance

This is a high-security prison role requiring enhanced vetting and a Counter-Terrorism Check (CTC). Applicants must have lived in the UK continuously for the last 3 years.

Right to Work

Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK. Sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route may not be available due to changes in immigration salary thresholds. See official guidance for up-to-date visa requirements.

Diversity and Inclusion

The Ministry of Justice is a Disability Confident employer and values diversity. Adjustments are available throughout the recruitment process. Everyone is encouraged to apply, regardless of background or circumstance.

How to Apply

Candidates must apply via the official Civil Service recruitment site. You will need to register and complete all online assessments as part of your application.

Reference ID: 6397

Grade: Administrative Officer (AO)