Detention Officer

Join Us. Make a Difference in Your Community. We’re offering an exciting opportunity to join Merseyside Police as a Detention Officer within one of our Custody Suites across the region. We are looking for motivated individuals with strong communication skills to join our Custody teams. In this role, you’ll support the safe care, processing, and welfare of detainees while working in a fast‑paced, professional environment.

Merseyside Police is a dynamic, challenging, and rewarding place to work. Proud to be recognised as the best‑performing urban Force by HMICFRS, our focus is simple: put our communities first. We are committed to:

• Ending Violence Against Women and Girls
• Tackling Serious Organised Crime and County Lines
• Strengthening Diversity and Inclusion
• Building trust through meaningful Community Engagement

As a Detention Officer, you’ll work in a supportive and fast‑paced environment where people are valued and development is encouraged. You’ll be joining a team committed to your growth, wellbeing, and success.

The Role

Working under the supervision of the Custody Sergeant, you will play a vital role in the safe, lawful, and respectful care of detained persons. Full training is provided.

Key Responsibilities

• Receive and process detainees using Force and national IT systems, ensuring accurate custody records and documentation.
• Support detainee welfare by preparing meals, providing first aid where needed, and supervising hygiene and exercise.
• Facilitate the secure movement of detainees within the custody suite.
• Process prisoners, including searching, fingerprinting, updating PNC records, and obtaining photographs.
• Monitor detainees in line with the Custody Sergeant’s Care Plan, ensuring health, safety, and welfare needs are met.
• Respond to enquiries and escort visitors, maintaining safety and security.
• Provide evidence for prosecution purposes and attend court when required.
• Liaise with external agencies (appropriate adults, solicitors, medical staff, interpreters).
• Conduct regular checks of stocks, equipment, and cells to ensure standards are maintained.

Recruitment Process

We are currently recruiting for training start dates from August 2026 onwards.

Stage One – Online Application

Submit your application along with a 1000‑word statement explaining why you are suitable for the role. Refer to the Job Description and Leadership Framework for guidance (full training is provided, so don’t worry if you don’t meet every element).

Upload your 1000‑word evidence , copy of your CV and any qualifications

Stage Two – Face-to-Face Interview

If shortlisted, you’ll be invited to an interview

Stage Three – Conditional Offer & Pre‑Employment Checks

Successful applicants will undergo vetting and medical checks before receiving a formal offer.
Training lasts 4 weeks, paid at 36.5 hours per week (without shift allowance).
After training, you will move onto your shift pattern and begin receiving the 34.06% equalisation allowance, with regular overtime opportunities available.

Click here for an example of the shift pattern you will be working 

Click here for the full JDQ 

Click here for the leadership framework which you can use to help you with  your 1000 word evidence 

For assistance or enquiries, email careers@merseyside.police.uk

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equality & Inclusion

We are passionate about building a workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, and we particularly encourage Females and Black, Asian and ethnic minority candidates to apply.

Our dedicated Inclusion Team provides support throughout the application process for candidates from under‑represented communities.
To learn more, click here or contact outreach@merseyside.police.uk