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Our eyes on the inside, a voice on the outside

Independent Monitoring Boards

Inside every prison, immigration removal centre and short term holding facility there is an Independent Monitoring Board (IMB).

Monitoring fair and humane treatment

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.

Virtual events

Hear from current volunteers at our next virtual events – 10 April 5-6:00pm (prisons), 18 April 5-6:00pm (immigration detention estate) and 23 April 5-6:00pm (prisons)

Our virtual open evenings are a great opportunity to hear directly from IMB members.

You will have the chance to hear members talk about their experiences, ask questions and learn more about what the role consists of from those who are currently volunteering.

Book your place:

Volunteer to make a difference

Interested in volunteering?

Our volunteers do an incredible job and you could too.

Find out more about volunteering

Gain valuable skills and experience

Whether you’re studying, in employment, retired or thinking about returning to work, develop transferable skills in a unique environment.

How volunteering benefits you

Current vacancies

Look at our vacancies for opportunities at prisons or places of immigration detention near you.

See current vacancies

Who are we and what do we do?

  • We are general members of the public
  • We are independent public appointees
  • We make 2 to 3 visits a month on average
  • We monitor the day-to-day life and treatment of prisoners and detained people
  • We have unrestricted access to the facilities we monitor
  • We can talk to prisoners or detained people out of sight and hearing of staff

IMB members site

If you’re already an IMB member, you’ll find the latest news, along with details of upcoming events and training on the members’ site. You’ll also be able to access expenses forms, media guidance and much more.

IMB members site