RECRUITMENT is underway for 700 staff to work at a new £400 million prison near York, which is due to open next year.

HMP Millsike is situated on 50 acres next to HMP Full Sutton, a few miles east of Stamford Bridge, and will house around 1,500 category C prisoners - those who are considered to be a moderate risk and are housed in closed prisons.

Facilities management company Mitie will be running the new prison, with its Care and Custody business launching an initial recruitment drive for 350 staff, with more to follow.

Live vacancies include Operational Support Grades, Prison Custody Managers, and Prison Custody Officers.

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Previous experience working in a prison is not required, as successful applicants will receive extensive training, the company says.

In the coming months, other roles will be on offer, including Engineers, Psychologists, Administrators, Security and Intelligence Officers, Behaviour Analysts, Teachers, Vocational Instructors, Family Workers and Cleaners.

Mitie says its team at HMP Millsike will play a crucial role in the rehabilitation of prisoners, and can expect a rewarding career path that makes a positive impact and difference to the lives of those under Mitie’s care.

The company has been named a UK Top Employer for six years running and new recruits receive benefits including free Mitie shares, discounted shopping at major retailers, 24/7 access to a free multi-language virtual GP service, life assurance, and an Employee Assistance Programme that offers mental wellbeing support.

Mitie also promises to set new standards in rehabilitation, including delivering drug treatment that supports abstinence-based recovery for prisoners in prison and after their release, a learning package tailored to prisoners to help them boost their skills, and 1,000 living wage jobs for prison leavers over the course of the contract.

Lisette Saunders, Mobilisation Director, Mitie Care & Custody, said: “This is an excellent opportunity for local jobseekers who want to make a positive impact on peoples’ lives, with up to 700 jobs available, all offering a competitive salary.

“We’re looking for applicants from all walks of life who are motivated, caring, and want to be part of a collaborative team that makes a difference. HMP Millsike will foster an atmosphere of care and respect, providing life skills for prisoners that will be crucial upon their release.

“Whether you’re an experienced prison professional, have skills working in secure establishments, or are completely new to the field, we have a range of rewarding and fulfilling career opportunities waiting for you.”

Mitie employs 68,000 staff around the UK providing facilities management services to around 3,000 employers.

HMP Millsike is the third new prison being built as part of the Government’s plan to deliver 20,000 new places.

The jail will be powered entirely by electricity, and fitted with solar panels, heat pump technology and more efficient lighting systems, using a quarter of the energy of traditional Victorian prisons.