A NEW prison being built next to Thamesmead’s Belmarsh is recruiting 350 staff.

The 900-prisoner category B prison, set to open next March, will be called HMP Thameside.

Operators Serco say they hope many of the staff will come from areas like Plumstead, Thamesmead, Woolwich and Greenwich.

Along with prison custody officers, jobs include PE instructors, catering, security, chaplains, administrators, clerical workers and people to help with drug and offender programmes.

Serco says it will provide training for new starters including a 10-week course for those in custodial roles which will see them learn control and restraint techniques.

Prison director Guy Baulf said: “This is a unique environment in which to work and while it can be challenging it is also incredibly rewarding.

“We are looking for people who can help us build a community within a community, and ultimately help reduce reoffending.”

The hi-tech prison is set to include advanced CCTV equipment and digital telephone monitoring.

For more information visit hmpthameside.org/index.php