A Day in the Life of a Detention Officer: Challenges and Rewards

Joining Thames Valley Police as a detention officer (DO), Salim now embraces a role filled with both challenges and rewards. In this blog, DO Salim shares insights into his daily experiences, the support he receives, and the rewarding moments that define his career.

Tell us a bit about your background (e.g. studies, work experience, family):

I completed my O-Level education and took courses in IT, Microsoft packages and managerial studies. I have worked in various positions across different organisations, including a role in recruitment with Milton Keynes Council. I also ran my own recruitment agency that dealt with social care.

What attracted you to policing?

I held various jobs and positions before joining TVP. I worked with GeoAmey Prison Escort Custody Services (PECS) for four years, and we were TUPE’d (Transfer of Undertakings, Protection of Employment) to SERCO – transporting prisoners from police stations to courts and handling numerous inter-prison transfers across the country. I enjoyed talking to detainees but never had enough time to listen to them and potentially help change their behaviours. I was on a 32-hour contract but often worked over 55 hours weekly, so I decided to join TVP as a Detention Officer, and I am happy and proud of what I do, dealing with detainees and putting smiles on their faces.

What do you want people to know about what it’s like being a DO? Can you describe a typical day in your role?

Every day is a unique and exciting experience and I genuinely enjoy each. You can never predict what to expect but always be prepared for the unexpected! It can be very busy or sometimes a calm shift. We can have several busy days followed by a period of calm.

What are the biggest challenges you face as a detention officer?

One of the biggest challenges is dealing with detainees who are self-harming. We have to be very vigilant to ensure they are safe and not harming themselves while in custody. Handling aggressive detainees is also challenging, but if you know how to calm them down, earn their trust, and take care of their welfare during their stay, it all works out.

Do you feel supported in your workplace?

I am very well supported by the management team, my inspectors, sergeants, and fellow DOs. I am also allowed to practice my religion as a Muslim.

What is the best moment of your career so far?

The best moments are when I put a smile on someone who has been arrested or when I see that I have made a positive change in someone’s life. I have received positive feedback and commendations, some of which have reached the headquarters.

What advice would you give someone considering a detention officer career?

Don’t judge anyone who comes into custody. Treat them with respect, smile, have patience, be positive but also firm, and know your boundaries. Be a team player, support your fellow staff, and be reliable. Be prepared to work in neighbouring custody centres from time to time.

This job is not for just anyone, but for special people who have the heart to put a smile on service user’s faces, regardless of age, race, gender, or religion. We need DOs from diverse backgrounds in custody. Could you be one of them?

If you’re interested in finding out more about becoming a detention officer, visit our Detention Officer – TVP Careers page.

 Detention Officer