Detention Officer

Detention Officer

Location: Bournemouth (Based at Bournemouth Divisional HQ (BQ), Weymouth Police Station (MJ)

Salary: Starts at £27,204 rising by yearly increments to a maximum of £29,859 per annum

Vacancy Type: Permanent, Full Time (37 hours per week)

Closing Date: 27th of August 2026

Are you looking for a new challenging yet rewarding role where you can make a real difference? Do you thrive in a fast-paced environment and have the resilience to handle unpredictable situations? If so, a role as a Detention Officer could be your next career move! 

About the Role 

As a Detention Officer, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and welfare of individuals in custody while supporting operational policing. This is a unique opportunity to work at the heart of our criminal justice system, managing detainees with professionalism, integrity, and compassion. 

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Ensuring all necessary records are accurately maintained.
• Carrying out welfare checks and responding to detainee needs in accordance with regulations.
• Managing conflict and de-escalating situations wherever possible. Physically restraining individuals where necessary to ensure your safety, the safety of your colleagues and the public.
• Assisting custody officers in risk assessments and maintaining a secure environment.
• Conducting searches and handling property in line with procedures.
• Working closely with officers and partner agencies to uphold detainee rights and well-being. 

What We’re Looking For:

• Physically fit individuals who have the fitness to undertake and pass the mandatory Public and Personal Safety Training (PPST) as part of initial training and on an annual basis thereafter. This is a pass/fail element of the training course which may mean employment could be terminated through the appropriate Force process.  Please ensure you are physically fit to apply for this role.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• The ability to remain calm and professional in challenging situations.
• Attention to detail and the ability to follow procedures precisely.
• A team player who can also take initiative when required. 

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a dedicated team making a tangible impact on policing.
• A role that offers variety—no two days are the same!
• Training and development opportunities to support your progression.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Owing to the shift work for the role, candidates will need to have reached the age of 18 by the start date. 

Want to know more about this role?

Further detail regarding this role and the essential requirements can be found within the job description by following the link below.

What you get if you join us:

If you work for us, you will get access to:

• A competitive salary with yearly increments.
• Access to heavily subsidised gym membership that will provide you access to police site gyms throughout the counties.
• Access to the Blue Light Card Scheme for discounts and services (requires a one-off payment of £5).
• Company sick pay.
• Competitive local government pension scheme.
• Job related equipment, as required.
• Free onsite parking at many police sites throughout the counties.
• Access to Group insurance scheme (via salary sacrifice scheme).
• Support networks, free Employees' Assistance Programme, Occupational Health and wellbeing services.
• Development and training opportunities.
• Supportive and flexible training plan, including regular check-ins throughout your initial period of joining us to ensure you are up to speed with the role and getting the support you need.

To Apply

If you feel you are a suitable candidate and would like to work for Dorset Police, please click apply to be redirected to our website to complete your application.