Detention Officer, Chris

Can you tell us about your role?

I am now in my 27th year with Hampshire Constabulary, and all of my service has been within the custody environment as a Detention Officer. I’m currently based at the Eastern Police Investigation Centre, which has a capacity of 36 cells, although I can be required to work at any of our three other sites across the county.

I work full time as part of a team responsible for the reception, care and management of detainees. As a Detention Officer, I support the Custody Sergeants, and together we ensure custody runs effectively, efficiently and – most importantly – safely at all times.

Are there any particular skills you require to do the role?

Custody can be challenging, fast paced and an emotionally charged place to work – so the ability to handle situations with respect, empathy and understanding is essential. Working shifts, including nights can be tiring but staying calm and controlled during pressurised situations is vital.

The role involves dealing with large amounts of information, so attention to detail is crucial as making mistakes can have serious consequences. Communication is another key skill. I interact with people from diverse backgrounds, many of whom may be vulnerable or confrontational, so being able to listen and respond appropriately is incredibly important.

What is the best part of your job?

Definitely the unpredictability. You never know what’s coming next. You haven’t truly “seen it all” until you’ve worked shifts in custody. It is a unique environment, but I’m fortunate to work alongside some of the best people and teams every day.

What would a standard day look like for you?

A typical shift includes two Custody Sergeants and five Detention Officers. After receiving a handover from the previous team, I can be assigned a variety of roles.

Some days I’m responsible for detainee care, which includes regular welfare checks and ensuring detainees remain safe whilst in our cells. On other shifts, I may be responsible for “booking in” newly arrested individuals – making sure they receive their rights and entitlements, identifying and arranging any medical or welfare needs, and completing their biometrics which includes fingerprints and DNA.

There are also shifts where I focus on administrative tasks, answering calls, and safely and securely managing visitors and detainees entering the custody block.

What advice would you give to someone considering becoming a Detention Officer?

Come in to the job with an open mind.  Every single day is different and you will deal with all sorts of characters from children to pensioners in every state of mind.

What do you do to unwind when not at work?

Shift work- days, lates and nights – can be tough, so making time to unwind is important. I enjoy going to the gym to maintain my physical fitness, but also because it plays a huge part in supporting my mental wellbeing. I am a keen runner and enjoy events like the Great South Run.

I’ve also spent the last 40 years supporting Tottenham Hotspur. I try to get to matches whenever shifts allow – some might say missing a few games is a blessing! My colleagues often remind me that our trophy cabinet is looking a little bare.

For our current vacancies visit our vacancy page All Hampshire Constabulary Jobs, or if you have any questions, please contact police.recruitment@hampshire.police.uk and we would be happy to help. Alternatively, please call us on 023 8045 1611.