Youth Escort Custody Officer – Sittingbourne Vehicle Base

Youth Escort Custody Officer – Sittingbourne

Serco Plc is seeking committed and compassionate Youth Escort Custody Officers (ECOs) at their Sittingbourne Vehicle Base. This permanent role involves safely transporting children and young people between youth offender institutions, police stations, and courts, ensuring their physical and emotional well-being throughout the journey. ECOs are responsible for court supervision, risk assessments, completing paperwork, and supporting young detainees in a secure, professional environment. Comprehensive training and ongoing support are provided, making this an excellent opportunity for those interested in justice, criminology, or youth welfare.

Serco Plc is a global services company delivering critical public services across sectors including justice, defence, transport, and healthcare. With a focus on operational excellence, innovation, and inclusion, Serco provides employees with training, career progression, and the chance to make a meaningful difference in communities worldwide.

Key Responsibilities

• Attend briefings, conduct risk assessments, and check vehicles before transport

• Escort young detainees safely to courts, youth institutions, or other secure facilities

• Monitor and support detainees’ welfare, providing food, comfort, and reassurance

• Manage court supervision, including searches, paperwork, and reporting behaviour

• Respond effectively to emergencies or challenging situations while maintaining calm and professionalism

• Work collaboratively with colleagues to ensure secure and safe custody operations

Required Skills & Experience

• Current driver’s licence (B/B1) and reasonable physical fitness

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Ability to work under stress, handle challenging behaviour, and make quick decisions

• Interest in working with children and young people

• Commitment to safeguarding, ethical standards, and confidentiality

• Capacity to de-escalate conflicts and provide empathetic support

Benefits

• Starting salary £26,745 (40 hrs/week), training salary £23,402 (35 hrs/week)

• Annual increments and potential first-year earnings up to £32,345 including overtime

• Pension (matched up to 6%), life insurance, and 20–25 days annual leave plus bank holidays

• Health and wellbeing support, Employee Assistance Programme, discounts, and staff perks

• Comprehensive 5 ½ week training and ongoing development

• A diverse, inclusive, and supportive work environment