Volunteer Opportunities
We are currently looking for new members to join the Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) at most prisons across England and Wales. The IMB helps to ensure that proper standards of care and decency are maintained. Applicants do not need any special qualifications or experience as we will provide all necessary training and support.
We encourage applications from people from minority ethnic communities, young people, those of working age, and people with disabilities, as these groups are under-represented on our existing Boards. This is an unpaid, voluntary role, but we pay your travel expenses and in certain circumstances, some loss of earnings and childcare/carer costs. The time commitment is approximately 2 to 3 visits per month, although this will be higher in the first year as members go through induction into the role.
To find out if your local Board is recruiting and to apply visit: https://imb.org.uk/prison-volunteer/prison-volunteer-uk/. If your local Board is not recruiting at the moment, you can sign up for a notification on our website.
This grid shows when you can volunteer for this opportunity.
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Why join us?
More than anything else, this is a rewarding opportunity that makes a real and meaningful difference to the lives of prisoners, detainees and our wider society. Ministers are obliged to respond to the issues raised in your Board’s report. The environment may seem intimidating at first, but you will be fully supported through your training and accompanied during your visits until you feel ready to manage independently. This highly recognised and respected role could provide the experience that opens doors into other careers within the justice system.
Who are we looking for?
There is no one type of person who could be right for the IMB because it’s not about background or skillset. It’s about having the dedication and passion to ensure all people are being treated fairly. For that reason, we’re looking for individuals from all walks of life who will approach the role with no preconceptions. You will need to be willing to work within a challenging environment and have the confidence to report your findings to senior figures. Most importantly, you will be able to talk to people in a way that makes each prisoner or detainee feel respected and reassured.