Prison Support - HMP Huntercombe

Role overview

This position is for an Operational Support Grade at HMP Huntercombe, where you’ll help with the everyday running of a busy prison. The work is varied and active, blending desk-based duties with hands-on tasks such as moving items, walking across the site to escort vehicles, and supporting security operations.

Key duties

You’ll be part of a team that keeps the establishment operating safely and efficiently. Typical duties include checks at entry points, searches, handling incoming deliveries, supervising visitors, and monitoring phone activity and CCTV.

Working pattern and travel

This role involves fixed shift start and finish times, so arriving on time is essential. The prison may be in a rural area with limited public transport, so having a driving licence and your own transport can help, although it is not always mandatory unless specifically stated. You should consider the site location and your commute options carefully.

Licence requirement

Applicants must have a full, valid UK driving licence that includes category D1. This category permits driving vehicles with up to 16 passenger seats, a maximum length of 8 metres, and a trailer weighing up to 750kg.

Who this role suits

No formal qualifications are needed. The role is well suited to someone who communicates clearly, stays composed in pressured situations, uses sound judgement, and works well as part of a team. Shifts can include nights and weekends.

Career value

This role offers a chance to contribute to public safety and support the work done inside prisons. Contact with prisoners is limited compared with prison officers, though some interaction may happen depending on the establishment. The role can also build useful operational knowledge and may open pathways into other prison jobs, including the OSG to Prison Officer conversion route.

Training and development

You can expect training, as well as opportunities to grow and progress in your career.

Pay and benefits

The salary for this role is £29,432. In addition to base pay, the package includes 25 days of annual leave on joining, rising to 30 days after 10 years of service on a pro-rata basis, plus 9 days of bank, public and privilege holidays. Other benefits include access to a paid Level 2 apprenticeship in customer service, a Civil Service pension, season ticket loans, retail discounts, an Employee Assistance Programme, and a Cycle to Work scheme.