Independent Monitors in Prisons and in the Immigration Detention Estate

Independent Monitoring Boards (IMB) are made up of over a thousand volunteers operating in every prison in England and Wales, and every immigration detention facility across the UK. 

IMB members are 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

You will make regular visits to prison or immigration detention facilities. 

You will see how staff relate to those in detention, and what processes there are for supporting individuals. 

You will have full access to the establishment, and you will be able to communicate with any detained person you wish to, out of sight or hearing from staff, so they can voice any concerns. 

Your observations and insights will provide a reality check on what is actually happening rather than what is supposed to be happening.

You do not need any previous experience, and all training will be provided. In the first nine to twelve months you will undergo new member training which will include shadowing experienced members of your local Board. 

You will also be allocated a mentor who will support you with your development.

To volunteer with us, you must:

• be over 18 years old
• commit to volunteering for a minimum of 12 hours a month
• have the right to work in the UK
• live close to your volunteering location, usually within 30 miles or a travel time of 45 minutes (this could be more in certain locations)
• declare any potential conflicts of interest, for example any family connection with the prison or immigration detention facility, or business involvement in supplying a service to the establishment you are applying to
• declare criminal records (although this won’t necessarily prevent you from becoming a volunteer).

Although this is an unpaid role, we pay travel and subsistence expenses, childcare/carer costs and, in certain circumstances, contributions towards loss of earnings.