Member of the Independent Monitoring Boards

Looking for a New Challenge in 2026? Become an Independent Monitor

Do you care about what goes on behind locked doors?
Do you believe everyone should be treated fairly and humanely?

If so, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.

The Independent Monitoring Boards (IMB) are recruiting volunteers across the UK. IMB members are ordinary people doing an extraordinary role: monitoring the treatment and conditions of people in custody and ensuring standards of fairness and decency.

As an IMB volunteer, you’ll have unique access to prisons and immigration detention centres, speaking to those in custody and staff, observing daily life, and reporting on what you find. It’s a role that offers insight into a world few people see – and the chance to make a real difference.

What’s involved?
Around 2–3 visits per month
Talking to people in custody and staff
Monitoring conditions and treatment
Working as part of a supportive team

What we’re looking for:
Integrity, honesty, and objectivity
Good communication skills
A commitment to fairness, equality, and inclusion
People who want to use their time to help others

You don’t need previous experience – full training and mentoring are provided. We welcome volunteers from all walks of life. You just need to be over 18 and live within 30 miles of the prison or detention centre you’ll monitor.

Although this is an unpaid role, we cover travel and subsistence expenses, childcare/carer costs, and, in some cases, contributions towards loss of earnings.

Recruitment is open now until 18 February.
Start the year by doing something meaningful. Find out more and apply at:
https://imb.org.uk/prison-volunteer/prison-volunteer-uk/