Are you looking for a new challenging yet rewarding role where you can make a real difference? Do you thrive in a fast-paced environment and have the resilience to handle unpredictable situations? If so, a role as a Detention Officer could be your next career move! 

About the Role 

As a Detention Officer, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and welfare of individuals in custody while supporting operational policing. This is a unique opportunity to work at the heart of our criminal justice system, managing detainees with professionalism, integrity, and compassion. 

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Ensuring all necessary records are accurately maintained.
• Carrying out welfare checks and responding to detainee needs in accordance with regulations.
• Assisting custody officers in risk assessments and maintaining a secure environment.
• Conducting searches and handling property in line with procedures.
• Working closely with officers and partner agencies to uphold detainee rights and well-being. 

What We’re Looking For:

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• The ability to remain calm and professional in challenging situations.
• Attention to detail and the ability to follow procedures precisely.
• A team player who can also take initiative when required. 

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a dedicated team making a tangible impact on policing.
• A role that offers variety—no two days are the same!
• Training and development opportunities to support your progression.

To see a video about what Detention Officer work involves, please use the following link and password:

https://vimeo.com/428446754 - Password: InsideView20

KEY RECRUITMENT DATES:

AWARENESS EVENT: if you would like to find out more about the role and the recruitment process, you are invited to attend our optional, online awareness event on the following date.

Monday 15th September 2025 from 6-7pm - click here for a free ticket

INTERVIEW: Interviews will be Sunday 28th September 2025. If you are unable to attend these dates please let the recruitment team know when submitting your application. The selection stage will consist of a structured interview.

CUSTODY TRAINING COURSE:

Candidates who are successful through the recruitment process will be required to undertake a mandatory 6-week custody course (5 January 2026 to 13 February 2026) which is to commence Monday 05 January 2026 and will be based at Middlemoor Police Headquarters, Exeter, EX2 7HQ. 

If you are unable to attend any dates within this 6-week training course (5 January 2026 to 13 February 2026) please contact the Alliance Resourcing team who will confirm what options would be available to you. 

Please note: If you are wishing to work on a part-time or ad hoc basis you will be required to attend the training course on a full time basis.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Owing to the shift work for the role, candidates will need to have reached the age of 18 by the start date. 

Please note that the attached shift pattern is an example of the Plymouth Custody Centre full time pattern. There may be some variances to this pattern at other Custody Centre locations.

In the event you are successful at interview but there are insufficient posts at your preferred working location, you will be invited to join a suitability pool in case future vacancies arise within 12 months of your interview. This isn't a guarantee of employment but would mean that you don't need to apply from the beginning again for the role of Detention Officer during the suitability pool period.