Prison Officer

The main responsibility of prison officers is to keep securely in prison people who have been sentenced by the courts. The work of a prison officer varies according to the type of prison, the age and gender of prisoners, and the level of security required.

The job usually involves:

• supervising the everyday activities of prisoners
• settling in new prisoners
• carrying out searches and security checks
• escorting prisoners from one part of the prison to another
• administering correct physical control and restraint procedures when required
• upholding respect for prisoners and their property, rights and dignity
• looking out for and helping prisoners who may try to harm themselves and others
• writing accurate reports when incidents occur
• making sure visitors understand and follow the security procedures.

Prison officers work a variety of shifts, including nights, weekends and some long days. Most work is indoors.

Salaries range from £18,135 to £33,537 a year.

A prison officer should:

• have excellent verbal and written communication skills
• be prepared for the unexpected and able to deal with situations quickly and effectively
• be compassionate and impartial, tactful but firm
• be able to remain calm under pressure
• be a good listener
• work well in a team
• enjoy working with people from different backgrounds.

There are over 25,000 prison officers working in 149 prisons in England and Wales. Most prisons in England and Wales are run by Her Majesty's Prison Service (HMPS). Eleven others are run by private companies under contract to the Ministry of Justice (MOJ).

No specific educational requirements are required for entry, but some GCSEs can be helpful. The Diploma in society, health and development or in public services may be relevant for this area of work. Applicants must be between 18 and 62 years old. There are other requirements, including those relating to health, eyesight and nationality. Applications from people with relevant experience are welcomed.

Initial prison officer training takes eight weeks and includes time spent in a prison and at a residential training centre. Where possible, applicants are placed in a local prison during training, although it may be necessary to travel or move with the job.

With experience, promotion to senior officer and then principal officer may be possible. Graduates can progress more quickly to higher positions by taking part in the Intensive Development Scheme.

Further details