Independent Monitoring Board (IMB)

This is a varied and rewarding role. You could be talking to a prisoner or detained person who is worried or vulnerable, who isn't able to access the support they need, or who needs help to sort out some practical problems.

You will get to see and report on everything that happens behind the walls: what day-to-day life is like, whether there is enough education and training to help with rehabilitation, what support there is for the most vulnerable, and how physical and mental health needs are met. 

Learn more about being a volunteer

Volunteering gives you the opportunity to work with IMB members with lots of knowledge and experience.

Gain valuable work experience

There are lots of reasons why people choose to volunteer with the IMB.

Whether you're studying, thinking of making a career change but lacking the relevant experience, looking for ways to increase your confidence after taking a career break, or recently retired, you will gain valuable skills in a rewarding way.

• Gain transferable employment skills such as decision-making, teamwork and influencing others
• Get training and mentoring from existing IMB members
• Employees who volunteer usually have greater job satisfaction

Read more about the benefits of volunteering with us

We welcome people from all walks of life

You don't need qualifications to volunteer in a prison or immigration detention facility with the IMB. Your values are more important. You need to be over 18, enthusiastic, open-minded, and a natural communicator. You also need to be a good listener who is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

In order to apply, you will need to:

• commit to making around 2 to 3 visits a month
• live within 30 miles (or a 45-minute journey) from the volunteering location, although this could be more in certain areas
• declare potential conflicts of interest, for example, any family connection with the prison or immigration detention facility

We are keen to increase membership diversity, especially among underrepresented groups such as young people, those of working age, and individuals from minority groups.

Get tips on how to apply

Find volunteer vacancies

See if there's a volunteering opportunity in a prison or immigration detention facility near you.

View the current vacancies

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