We’re sure you have a lot of questions about the job – you can find answers to the most common ones below. If you have any additional questions, you can send them to hello@unlockedgrads.org.uk

Will I wear a uniform?

Yes, as a full-time prison officer you are expected to wear a uniform within the regulations of the service. In most prisons this will include a belt with keys and a baton.

Do I need to be able to drive?

It is not a requirement that you are able to drive. We ask this question on the application form to support us in our allocation process as there are some prisons that are more accessible by car.

What are the working hours?

The standard working hours for a prison officer are 37 hours, including 17% antisocial hours. You can also (and may be asked to) work overtime, for which you will receive additional pay. Since prison officers work in shifts, you will be required to work on night shifts, as well as during weekends and bank holidays.

How much will I earn?

The starting salary for Band 3 prison officers in the prisons we currently work with is between £22,293 (North West & Midlands) up to £30,094.

How quickly will I be promoted?

For the duration of the programme, you will work as a Band 3 prison officer. You will have the opportunity to apply for promotion following on from this if you choose (and are accepted) to stay in the prison service.

Will I be in danger?

A prison is a unique environment to work in. It is there to act as a punishment to criminals through the deprivation of liberty. Regardless of their past, few if any prisoners want to be in prison and because of this, emotions can run high and incidents do occur. Some of these have received widespread coverage in the media recently.