Independent Monitoring Boards Information

Independent Monitoring Boards are an important part of the independent oversight of prisons and places of immigration detention. We’re ordinary members of the public holding an extraordinary public office. We provide an external presence in closed environments, monitoring the treatment and conditions of prisoners and detainees, reporting what we find, and dealing with queries and concerns from individual prisoners. We’re unpaid, but are appointed by government ministers and have statutory powers to go anywhere within the prison, talk to prisoners and see documents.  As part of the National Preventive Mechanism we also contribute to the government commitment to monitor detention and prevent torture and ill-treatment.   IMB members work an average of 3-4 visits per month, with expenses reimbursed. We have unrestricted access to our local prison or immigration detention centre at any time and can talk to any prisoner or detainee we wish, out of sight and hearing of members of staff if necessary. A typical monitoring visit might include time spent in the kitchens, workshops, accommodation blocks, recreation areas, healthcare centre and chaplaincy. Board members also play an important role in dealing with problems inside the establishment. If a prisoner or detainee has an issue, he or she can put in a confidential request to see us. Problems might include concerns over health care, personal property, visits from family or friends, religious or cultural requirements, or maybe serious allegations such as bullying.   If something serious happens at the establishment, for example a riot or a death in custody, members may be called in to attend and observe the way in which the situation is handled.   We have people from a range of backgrounds - nurses, students, teachers, lawyers, small business owners – why not join us? We are currently looking for new members for IMBs across England and Wales from a wider range of backgrounds and with a variety of experience.