Prison Standards Monitor. at Independent Monitoring Boards : Community CVS

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.

What skills do I need?

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.

When do I need to be available?

	Morning	Afternoon	Evening
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday

Where does this role take place?

Head Office: The Independent Monitoring Boards and Lay Observers
Ministry of Justice
Post Point 2, Third Floor, 10 South Colonnade, Canary Wharf,
London,
E14 4PU

View on Google Maps →

Register your interest

Ideal for people interested in
Crime, Victims and Offenders

Ideal for people who like
Trusteeship and Committee Work

Details
Accessibility
DBS check required
Equal opportunities policy
Expenses reimbursed
Health and Safety Policy
Ongoing support
Suitable for under 18s
Training provided
Volunteers covered by insurance