Government hires extra 3,100 prison guards and will recruit hundreds more before Christmas
Becoming a prison officer provides as secure career that can make a real difference.
GOING to jail isn’t part of most career plans – but if you would like a secure job that can make a real difference, consider becoming a prison officer.
In April the Government revealed it had hired an extra 3,100 in the previous 18 months, and there are still hundreds of jobs .
The roles come with a full-time starting salary of £22,396, a civil service pension, 25 days’ holiday, retail discounts and childcare vouchers.
All new prison officers also gain a Level 3 diploma after completing ten weeks of training.
As well as helping in- mates make better choices in preparation for release, you are also responsible for safety and security inside jails.
New recruits need to be able to balance authority with compassion, think on their feet and deal effectively with unexpected situations.
29 per cent of prisoners reoffend but with good prison officers that number will fall
Although figures show about 29 per cent of prisoners reoffend within a year of their release, good prison officers can help inmates go straight.
Officers can also go on to specialise in roles such as dog handler, personal training instructor, negotiation and specialist, or may work in a prison healthcare unit.
Prisons Minister Rory Stewart said: “Being a prison officer is one of the most challenging and important roles in the public sector.
“It requires real courage and energy, and a commitment to turn around lives.
“While it is undoubtedly tough, it can also be an immensely rewarding job in which you can take real pride in your work.”
For more information see .
I've Always Worn a Uniform
LEE CUMMINGS went from being a Sergeant Major in the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards to prison officer.
Lee, 44, from Cardiff, says: “My motivation for joining the prison service is, basically, that I wanted security.
I’ve worn a uniform for 22 years and think it would be quite difficult to wear civilian clothes.
“I was also looking for a career where you can give to the community and I do think that some people who are in prison haven’t been guided in the right direction.
“I feel I can bring my skills from the military to the prison officer role.
“I’ve got good listening and personal skills to adapt to any situation and maybe help somebody move along and progress with their life.”
FIND a job with FIRSTSOURCE, which has hundreds of jobs on offer. See firstsource.com/careers.
- WHILE schoolkids are relaxing, thousands of teachers are already back at work, as teaching is now the most sought-after summer job.
- A growing market for summer tuition and activity camps means there has been a 14 per cent rise in demand since last year, according to job site Indeed.
- Tara Sinclair, economist with Indeed, said: “Parents are looking to give their offspring a learning boost ahead of the new school year.”
- ONE in five of us lacks basic digital skills, but mobile firm Three is trying to help.
- Its stores are offering bespoke Discovery digital training sessions, no matter which network you are on.
- To book, email [email protected] or visit your local store.
FIND a job with FIRSTSOURCE, which has hundreds of jobs on offer. See firstsource.com/careers.
- DO you know an IT hero? The annualis hunting for individuals who keep your company safe from hacking, phishing and fraud attacks and ensure you comply with complex data protection rules.
Yvonne Eskenzi, founder of the Security Serious campaign, said: “The awards are about thanking all those incredible IT security professionals who work tirelessly behind the scenes.
“We also want to encourage new talent and show them how rewarding a career in cybersecurity can be.” Nominate before August 3 at security serious.com/unsung-heroes-awards.
most read in money
- BECOME a legal eagle with holiday firm Tui, which has launched the first travel solicitor apprenticeship programme in partnership with the University of Hertfordshire.
Trainees on the six-year course will combine on-the-job training and academic learning. The scheme is open to anyone, including A-level school leavers.
Lawyer Pete Baxter, who works with Tui, said: “We’re really excited to be able to offer such a fantastic opportunity without the infamous and highly competitive search for a training contract after qualifying.”
Apply by July 31 at bit.ly/2LJnhTr
DID you know LIDL jobs can pay a lot? Search 470 new roles at careers.lidl.co.uk/en/jobsearch.htm.
Apply by July 31 at bit.ly/2LJnhTr
Be Job Smart Online
POSTING those wild holiday snaps may get lots of likes on Facebook, but they won’t impress a new employer.
David Angell, director at first-time jobseeker site Finito.org.uk, says: “Social media gives anyone the power to search and connect with people, companies and organisations across the world.
In the world of employment that’s a huge opportunity.
“This opportunity can also come with risks, but they shouldn’t stop you being in the game. So be wise, not invisible.”
Below, he explains how to manage your social media.
- Before you post, do the noticeboard test. Would you write it on a public noticeboard? If not, it’s best not to put it on social media.
- Carry out a quick “audit” of your social media, rather than just “closing down” anything. Many sites have privacy settings allowing you to restrict who sees what on your profile.
- Don’t remove your personality from your feed. It could be exactly why an employer would want to hire you, so make sure to keep telling your life story.
- If you are applying for a communications or digital job, try to be on as many social network channels as possible. Show employers that you get it but consider the content.