Lay Observer

Lay Observers are unpaid public appointees, appointed by the Secretary of State to provide independent oversight on the welfare of detained persons whilst in court custody and during transportation between prison and court.

This is a unique and varied role. You will get to make regular visits to court custody suites within England and Wales and speak to a variety of people from diverse backgrounds and many walks of life. You will get to see and report on what happens within a vital part of the UK justice system: whether individuals are being given sufficient access to legal counsel, what support there is for the most vulnerable, including children, and how the needs of detained people are met.

You do not need any formal qualifications, knowledge of the UK criminal justice system or experience to volunteer as a Lay Observer as we provide all the necessary training. However there are some key skills and attributes we look for in Lay Observers, including:

• Being objective.
• Being prepared to challenge the status quo.
• Being analytical.
• Have good verbal and written skills.

Lay Observers are expected to commit to a minimum of 2 visits per month. Although time commitments vary, the total time needed to research, travel to and visit a court, and complete a report will often take at least 8 hours. Lay Observers can choose when visits are made but are expected to undertake their visits during weekdays as many courts are not open at weekends.