About the role

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Want to find out more about this rewarding role? Attend one of our virtual events, where you will hear from current volunteers themselves.

Prison estate

16 August 5 – 6pm, book your place here.

6 September 5 – 6pm, book your place here.

Immigration detention estate

20 September 5 – 6pm, book your place here.

Inside every prison and immigration centre, there is an Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) made up of ordinary members of the public doing an extraordinary job.

You’ll work as part of a team of volunteers, who are the eyes and ears of the public, appointed by Ministers to perform a vital task: independent monitoring of prisons and the immigration detention estate. It provides an opportunity to report on whether the individuals held within these establishments are being treated fairly and humanely and whether prisoners are being given the support they need to turn their lives around.

You’ll monitor day-to-day life in a prison or immigration facility. For example, you could be talking to a prisoner or detained person, who may be at risk of self-harm, and checking whether they are being given the appropriate support. Alternatively, you could be playing an important role in dealing with their complaints or request.

We welcome people from all walks of life and are keen to increase membership diversity. The groups that are currently underrepresented are young people, those of working age and individuals from minority ethnic groups. You just need to be over 18, enthusiastic, open minded and a natural communicator.

What the role involves

Volunteers are required to commit to an average of 2-3 visits per month, however there may be some flexibility.

You do not need any qualifications or particular experience, all necessary training and support will be provided during the 12 month induction and mentoring period.

For further insight into the work of IMBs please take a look at our annual reports and national monitoring framework.

All members are subject to the IMB Code of Conduct (PDF), developed in line with the Nolan principles of public life.

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