Independent Monitoring Boards are made up of over a thousand unpaid volunteers operating in every prison in England and Wales, and every immigration detention facility across the UK.
IMB members are the eyes and ears of the public, appointed by ministers to perform a vital task: independent monitoring of prisons and immigration detention. They report on whether the individuals held there are being treated fairly and humanely and whether prisoners are being given the support they need to turn their lives around. This can make a huge difference to the lives of those held within these facilities.
The IMB helps to ensure that proper standards of care and decency are maintained.
We encourage applications from people from minority ethnic communities, young people, those of working age, and people with disabilities, as these groups are under-represented on our existing Boards.
This is an unpaid, voluntary role, but we pay your travel expenses and in certain circumstances, some loss of earnings and childcare/carer costs.
Closing date for applications is 7 May 2023.
Please visit the IMB website for further information and to apply: https://imb.org.uk/prison-volunteer/prison-volunteer-uk/
Independent Monitoring Boards are made up of over a thousand unpaid volunteers operating in every prison in England and Wales, and every immigration detention facility across the UK.
IMB members are the eyes and ears of the public, appointed by ministers to perform a vital task: independent monitoring of prisons and immigration detention. They report on whether the individuals held there are being treated fairly and humanely and whether prisoners are being given the support they need to turn their lives around. This can make a huge difference to the lives of those held within these facilities.
After you have completed your induction period you will make around 2-3 visits a month and observe everything that goes on. You will see how staff relate to prisoners and those in detention, and what processes there are for supporting and rehabilitating individuals. You will have full access to the prison, from the wings to the segregation unit and the education centre.
Applicants do not need any special qualifications or experience as we will provide all necessary training and support. Candidates need to be over 18 years of age and live within a reasonable distance of the prison (up to one hour travel time). You need to be enthusiastic, open minded, possess effective communication skills and have the ability to exercise sound, objective judgement.
Applicants must be aged 18 and over.
The time commitment is approximately 2 to 3 visits per month, although this will be higher in the first year as members go through induction into the role.
Public transport can be limited to HMP Holme House and HMP Kirklevington Grange.