Prisoner escort contracts awarded

The revised contracts for the Prisoner Escort and Custody Service (PECS) will build on the current arrangements within England and Wales – introducing an updated fleet of escort vehicles with enhanced safety and security features, and an innovative digital platform which provides real-time data on the location of detainees and prisoners who are being moved.

These changes will improve the efficiency of the PECS service as well as overall safety, security and decency for prisoners. They will also realise significant benefits during the 10-year term of the contracts such as reducing the number of delays at court, stopping mixed transportation of adult and youths and minimising the time a prisoner spends in a court cell or prison van.

The contracts were awarded following a competitive procedure. GEOAmey Ltd and Serco Ltd offered the best overall bids in terms of quality and cost and the contracts will start from 29 August 2020.

Performance will be monitored through monthly meetings to ensure high standards are maintained and suppliers are held to account.

Notes to editors

1. PECS provides the safe and secure transport of prisoners, including: adults; children and young people to and from Police Stations; Courts; Prisons; Secure Training Centres (STCs); and Secure Schools (SCHs)
2. PECS has been managed by private sector providers since 1994. The fourth generation of contracts will commence 29 August 2020.
3. Serco Ltd has been selected to provide the service across the whole of the South of England region and GeoAmey PECS Ltd will cover the North region.
4. For further information please contact the Ministry of Justice press office on 0203 334 3536.