Prison Support

Operational Support Grade (Prison Support Role) – HMP Thorn Cross | £30,491 Salary | 6 Permanent UK Government Vacancies

The HM Prison & Probation Service (HMPPS) is inviting applications for 6 permanent Operational Support Grade (OSG) positions at HMP Thorn Cross in Warrington, North West England. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking a stable and rewarding career within the UK Civil Service.

No formal qualifications are required for this role, making it an ideal opportunity for candidates with the right attitude, strong work ethic, and willingness to work as part of a team. Successful applicants will receive comprehensive training, a competitive salary, generous pension contributions, and excellent opportunities for career progression.

Job Summary

• Job Title: Operational Support Grade (Prison Support Role)
• Employer: HM Prison & Probation Service (HMPPS)
• Reference Number: 468253
• Location: HMP Thorn Cross, Arley Road, Appleton Thorn, Warrington, WA4 4RL
• Region: North West England
• Salary: £30,491 per year (includes 20% unsocial hours allowance)
• Contract Type: Permanent
• Job Grade: Administrative Assistant
• Number of Vacancies: 6
• Working Hours: 37 hours per week
• Work Pattern: Full-time, Part-time, Flexible Working and Job Share opportunities available
• Closing Date: 9 July 2026 (11:55 PM)

About the Role

Operational Support Grades play a vital role in ensuring the safe, secure, and efficient running of the prison. This is a varied and physically active position where no two days are the same.

You will work alongside prison officers and other staff to support daily prison operations while maintaining safety and security across the establishment.

The role involves regular walking, standing for extended periods, lifting and carrying equipment, and occasionally working independently during both day and night shifts.

Depending on operational needs, you may have regular contact with prisoners or work primarily in secure support areas.

Key Responsibilities

As an Operational Support Grade, your duties may include:

Gate Security

• Controlling the secure entry and exit of staff, visitors, contractors and vehicles
• Conducting searches of people, vehicles and belongings
• Issuing and collecting staff keys, radios and security equipment
• Escorting authorised contractors around the prison

Prison Security

• Carrying out perimeter patrols
• Inspecting fences and secure areas
• Responding appropriately to security incidents
• Supporting emergency procedures when required

Control Room Duties

• Operating prison radio communication systems
• Monitoring CCTV cameras
• Reporting suspicious activities promptly
• Maintaining security logs

Reception Duties

• Photographing newly arrived prisoners
• Processing prisoner property and personal belongings
• Handling incoming parcels and documentation

Prisoner Support

• Assisting prison officers with prisoner movements
• Supervising prisoners when required
• Exchanging clothing and property
• Supporting safe prisoner escorts

Visits Management

• Welcoming visitors
• Escorting visitors around designated areas
• Maintaining security procedures during visits

Mail and Correspondence

• Processing incoming mail
• Checking for prohibited items
• Recording and preserving evidence where necessary

Food Distribution

• Delivering and collecting food trolleys
• Operating electric tug vehicles where required

Driving Duties

• Collecting mail from local sorting offices
• Loading and transporting mail sacks safely

Telephone Monitoring

• Managing prisoner PIN phone systems
• Recording phone requests
• Maintaining accurate operational records

Who Can Apply?

You do not need previous prison experience or formal qualifications.

This role is suitable for applicants who demonstrate:

• Good communication skills
• Strong teamwork
• Sound judgement
• Reliability and integrity
• Ability to follow procedures
• Physical fitness for an active working environment
• Confidence working in secure environments
• Flexibility to work rotating shifts

Working Hours

This role operates on a rotating shift pattern.

You will work an average of 37 hours per week, including:

• Day shifts
• Evening shifts
• Night shifts
• Weekends
• Bank and Public Holidays

Shift schedules vary depending on operational requirements.

Salary and Benefits

Successful applicants will receive:

• £30,491 annual salary
• Civil Service Pension with 28.97% employer contribution
• 25 days annual leave on appointment
• Annual leave increasing to 30 days after 10 years’ service
• 9 Bank, Public and Privilege Holidays
• Paid Level 2 Customer Service Apprenticeship
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Retail discounts
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Season Ticket Loan
• Flexible working opportunities
• Comprehensive induction programme
• Continuous professional development
• Promotion and career progression opportunities within HMPPS
• Equality, diversity and inclusion training
• Security and operational training

Training and Career Development

All successful applicants receive extensive training before starting operational duties.

Training includes:

• Prison security procedures
• Communication skills
• Equality and diversity
• Conflict management
• Suicide prevention
• Health and safety
• Emergency response
• Customer service qualification (Level 2)

There are also excellent opportunities for promotion within HM Prison & Probation Service.

Selection Process

The recruitment process includes:

Stage 1 – Online Application

Complete the online application form.

Stage 2 – Values-Based Assessment

Applicants will complete an online assessment lasting approximately 20 minutes.

Stage 3 – Interview

Successful candidates will attend a behaviour and strengths-based interview.

The following behaviours will be assessed:

• Communicating and Influencing
• Managing a Quality Service
• Making Effective Decisions
• Caring

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

• Meet the Civil Service nationality requirements.
• Successfully complete identity, security and criminal record checks.
• Be able to communicate confidently in English.
• Be willing to work rotating shifts, including nights and weekends.

Why Join HM Prison & Probation Service?

Working with HMPPS offers long-term career stability, excellent public sector benefits, structured training, and opportunities to progress within one of the UK’s largest government organisations.

Whether you’re starting a new career or looking for a secure and meaningful role, becoming an Operational Support Grade allows you to contribute directly to public safety while building valuable professional skills.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their application before the closing date.

• Closing Date: 9 July 2026 (11:55 PM)
• Employer: HM Prison & Probation Service
• Job Reference: 468253
• Location: HMP Thorn Cross, Warrington, North West England