We're recruiting

We're recruiting

Interested in becoming a Custody Detention Officer? 

Custody Detention Officers (CDO’s) play a vital role in assisting with the secure detention, care and welfare of detained persons and their property. 

They support the safe operations of South Wales Police’s four operational custody suites: Cardiff Bay, Merthyr Tydfil, Bridgend and Swansea.

It is the role of a CDO to support the Custody Officer in providing a safe custody environment and ensure the rights and entitlements of people detained are protected.

CDOs are required to work 24/7 shifts, including Bank Holidays and Weekends. 

South Wales Police recognises the importance and significance of having a diverse workforce to help enhance the capability and capacity of delivering a high-quality performance for our diverse communities, and to meet the Force’s ambition to be the best at understanding and responding to our communities’ needs.

SWP are holding a Familiarisation session at South Wales Police Headquarters, PLC Building, Cowbridge Road, Bridgend CF31 3SU on 15th October 2026 . This session can provide you with advice on how to apply for the role, the duties you will have to undertake, answer any questions you may have and experienced CDO’s will be in attendance to give you an insight into their day-to-day duties, I’m sure they’ll have a few stories to share!

You will also have the opportunity to ask questions you may have around the recruitment process.
The sessions will take place in Police Headquarters from 6pm – 8pm.

If you are interested in attending, please sign up using the below link:

Custody Detention Officer (CDO) Awareness Session - Thursday 15th October 2026 - Police Jobs Wales

To apply for the CDO role, please click here:

Custody Detention Officers (CDO) Campaign October 2026 - Police Jobs Wales

The SWP Positive Action team can support all candidate’s from minority ethnic communities and will provide support throughout the process and answer any queries.  The team is available on the below email.

For further information on the role, or if you wish to discuss with our Positive Action team, please email PositiveAction@south-wales.police.uk

If you wish to register your interest for future roles/vacancies in South Wales Police, please register on to our database of interest and we will send you further information when applicable.

South Wales Police Talent Bank - Police Jobs Wales