Detention Officer Including Transferee Opportunities - Custody | Current & Future Opportunities
- Location: York, Scarborough or Harrogate
- Salary: £25,242 - £29,859 (NYP Scale 3-4) plus 20% shift allowance and 47.8 weekend working hours
- Progression through the pay scale is linked to a career progression plan
- Contract: Permanent | Full Time
- Shifts: 12-hour shift pattern consisting of 2 x day shifts (7am to 7pm), 2 x night shifts (7pm to 7am), then 4 rest days
- Proposed course start date: 29 June 2026
- Closing date: 12pm on Wednesday 11 February 2026
We’re excited to welcome applications for both new and transferee Detention Officers to join our busy Custody Suites. This is your chance to play a vital role at the heart of operational policing, supporting officers and safeguarding the public every day.
We’re recruiting for current vacancies and building a holding list for future opportunities. This means that even if a role isn’t immediately available, your application will be considered for upcoming positions within a 12 month period.
As a Detention Officer you will carry out a wide range of duties to ensure the safety, security, and hygiene of the custody environment. You will also monitor and maintain the welfare of the detainees and provide support to the Custody Sergeant.
Key responsibilities will include:
- Booking-in detainees, drug testing, taking DNA and similar samples, searches, taking photographs and fingerprints; all to provide the Force with information to aid the detection of crime.
- Making the Custody Sergeant aware of any changes in behaviour or well-being of detainees so that any welfare concerns are addressed immediately.
- Applying procedures, guidelines and statutory requirements relevant to the detention of prisoners to ensure compliance with the Police and Criminal Evidence Act, (PACE), Home Office guidelines and Criminal Law.
- Providing administrative support in connection with custody suite systems and procedures to ensure the service provided is efficient and that records are properly maintained supporting the effective management of the unit.
Please review the job description for a list of all responsibilities.
This is a challenging yet rewarding role which requires excellent communication and interpersonal skills, along with the ability to demonstrate resilience in potentially difficult situations. In addition, you must:
- Have good keyboard and computer skills, with the ability to learn to utilise bespoke software packages and all relevant security policies and operating procedures.
- Able to work effectively in a team to achieve shared objectives, demonstrating awareness of individual differences and providing support as required.
- Have good communication skills with the ability to listen to others.
- Be able to show experience of working in a pressurised environment and on own initiative.
- Be able to proactively develop effective working relationships with colleagues, partners and other stakeholders.
- Hold a full manual UK driving licence.
Please note: Confirmation of post is subject to passing a 3-week (Mon–Fri) training course delivered within force. The next available course is scheduled for 29 June 2026. While we aim to progress successful candidates towards this date, attendance is dependent on completing all pre-employment checks satisfactorily.
During your probation you will undertake a Detention Officer accreditation period and once you have been signed off on certain areas this will lead to pay increments.
Once you are in the role, all Detention Officers may be required to work in other custody suites across North Yorkshire to provide resilience for the Directorate when required.
Please see below for details on transferring as an accredited Detention Officer.
Transferee Detention Officer Applicants:
We warmly welcome applications from Detention Officers currently serving with other forces. To be eligible to apply you will have:
- Evidence of Custody accreditation (2-week initial Custody course plus annual CPD or local force equivalent)
- Current PPST accreditation
- Current First Aid accreditation including Mod 3: Custody
Why Join Us?
Working for the emergency services is both meaningful and impactful. At North Yorkshire Police, we’re committed to helping colleagues reach their full potential in a fair, inclusive, and supportive environment. We value diverse perspectives and actively promote staff wellbeing so everyone can thrive. Please visit our website to learn more about our organisation.
We’re also proud to provide a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your wellbeing, work-life balance, and professional growth:
- Local Government Pension Scheme – secure and competitive retirement planning
- Salary Sacrifice Car Scheme – access to affordable vehicle leasing options (NHS Fleet Solution)
- Generous Annual Leave – 24 days rising to 30 with length of service, plus bank holidays
- Blue Light Discount – enjoy savings at major retailers and services
- Health Cash Plan
- Access to Trade Union Membership – opportunity to join UNISON
- Inclusion & Diversity Networks – connect with colleagues and contribute to a culture of belonging
- Health & Wellbeing Services – access to resources that support your physical and mental health
- Cycle to Work Scheme – Save money on bikes and accessories
- Civil Service Sports Club (CSSC) Membership – Access to discounted sports & leisure, activities.
To be considered for this role, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- You must have the right to work in the UK, with no restrictions on your employment
- Hold a full UK manual driving licence
- Internal applicants must have successfully completed their probation period
- Meet residency requirements for vetting:
- RV Level Vetting – minimum 3 years UK residency
Your Application
North Yorkshire Police is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive working environment. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or within your role, please declare this within your online application. A member of our team will contact you prior to your interview to ensure appropriate support is in place.
Safer Recruitment
North Yorkshire Police is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. Safeguarding is a core part of our recruitment process, and we expect all applicants to share this commitment. All successful candidates will undergo a thorough recruitment process and must obtain satisfactory pre-employment clearances before commencing employment, including satisfactory Vetting or DBS checks, references, and a medical assessment, including absence history. Adherence to our safeguarding policies and procedures is essential.
Ready to Apply?
As part of our selection process, we’ll assess your skills and experience against the requirements of the role. We therefore encourage you to take your time to tailor your application, ensuring your responses align with the job advert and role profile.
Interviews are scheduled to take place: February 2026
Proposed course date: 29 June 2026 (subject to change). If successful at the recruitment process, we will progress you towards this course date. Please note that pre-employment checks must be cleared before attending, and delays may affect your start date.
We look forward to receiving your application!