Today’s guest blog comes from the Independent Monitoring Boards, who are in the midst of recruiting new board members at HMP Grendon and HMP Springhill. Read on for more about this voluntary role:

Who are IMB?

 “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.”

“Are you looking for a volunteer role with a difference? Do you care about the fair and humane treatment of prisoners and the state of our prisons?

Whatever your background, if you’re enthusiastic, open minded, good with people and have sound judgement, then you could be exactly what we’re looking for.

Inside every prison, there is an Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) made up of members of the public from all walks of life doing an extraordinary job – and we’re currently recruiting.

What’s the role?

You’ll work as part of a team of IMB volunteers, who are the eyes and ears of the public, appointed by ministers to perform a vital task: independently monitor prisons. It’s an opportunity to help make sure that prisoners are being treated humanely and given the opportunity to change their lives, for their benefit and ours.

What would I do?

You’ll monitor day-to-day life in a prison. You could be talking to prisoners, checking that they’re being given access to healthcare and training, or observing how well

those at risk of self-harm are treated. You’ll also play an important role in dealing with problems faced by prisoners, ranging from lost property to serious bullying allegations.

Could I be a board member?

We welcome applications from over 18s from every walk of life and all backgrounds.

You’ll normally need to live within roughly 45 minutes of the prison, except for those in more remote locations.

What qualifications do I need?

You do not need any formal qualifications – you’ll receive training for the role.

What is the time commitment?

You’ll usually need to commit to at least two visits a month.

Would I be paid?

This is an unpaid, voluntary role, but we pay your travel expenses and in certain circumstances, some loss of earnings and childcare or carer costs.

If you’d like to apply, click here.