Advocacy Volunteer Roles

Chairwoman - LAWRS

Voluntary, up to 5 hours per week

Salary: unpaid role, expenses paid

Location: Hybrid work (monthly Board meetings are currently being held remotely)

The Sheila McKechnie Foundation (SMK) is here for people working to make lasting change, whether in their community, across society, or for our planet.

We support change-makers by sharing the latest thinking and advice. We connect the campaign community to grow solidarity, share ideas, and find common cause. And we act as a powerful champion for the right to campaign.

We are looking for 3 new Trustees to join our Board.

Responsibilities:

• Execute a results-driven social media strategy;
• Develop and curate engaging content for social media platforms;
• Assist in the creation and editing of written, video, and photo content;
• Attend events and produce live social media content (as applicable);
• Maintain unified brand voice across different social media channels;
• Collaborate to create a social media calendar;
• Monitor social media channels for industry trends;
• Interact with users and respond to social media messages, inquiries, and comments;
• Review analytics and create reports on key metrics;
• Assist in the development and management of social media marketing and influencer marketing strategy.

Qualifications / Skills:

• Passion for women's human rights;
• Expertise with social media and proficiency with major social media platforms and social media management tools;
• Proficiency with editing tools/digital media formats;
• Ability to understand historical, current, and future trends in the digital content and social media space;
• Strong copywriting and copy editing skills;
• Top-notch oral and verbal communication skills;
• Impeccable time management skills with the ability to multitask;
• Detail-oriented approach with ability to work under pressure to meet deadlines.

Education and Experience Requirements:

• 2+ years experience with social campaigning, social media marketing or content development;
• 2+ years experience with donor campaign platforms;
• Direct experience using social media management tools;
• Experience with Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook);
• Experience with Adobe Creative Cloud (Photoshop, Premier Pro) or equivalent digital media editing tools a plus.

Responsibilities:

Executive Director Assistance

▪ Provide direct support to Executive Director to ensure IWI meets organisational goals and targets;

▪ Ensure staff reports and assignments are submitted timely & completely;

▪ Day-to-day management of Executive Director’s meeting schedule;

▪ Liaise with potential partners and donors at a high-level on behalf of the Executive Director;

▪ Support Executive Director during preparation of presentations, media interviews;

▪ Keep the Executive Director in on key organisational issues with diplomacy and discretion.

Partner & Donor Management

▪ Assist with preparation of proposals and enquiries;

▪ Assist with preparation and management of contracts/agreements;

▪ Support with the coordination of pipeline and work-flow.

Requirements:

▪ Experience of working at Executive Assistant level with senior management;

▪ Ability to manage complex and highly confidential information;

▪ Comfortable working autonomously and across multiple tasks and reporting into different project working teams and staff members;

▪ Knowledge of advanced MS office applications, including Word, Excel and Outlook;

▪ Excellent social skills, able to operate with diplomacy, tact and empathy;

▪ A high degree of personal organization and self-management;

▪ Comfortable with deadlines;

▪ Ability to think proactively and laterally to maximize opportunities to promote the work of IWI.

A fantastic opportunity to build knowledge of the UK asylum system, gain hands-on casework experience and deliver an essential service to refugees. 

About us

Care4Calais is a volunteer-based charity providing essential aid and support for refugees in France and the UK.

In northern France we operate year-round from Calais, providing warm clothing, bedding, food and assistance to refugees who live in appalling and dangerous conditions. 

Across the UK we collect and distribute clothes, shoes, mobile phones and other essential items, as well as social support and interaction, including language lessons, sport and music workshops. We also help with vital access to legal, medical and educational services.

Our Legal Access Department is an access to justice project that exists to arrange critical legal representation for people seeking asylum and, more than this, to support people through the hostility and difficulty of claiming asylum. The department, made up mostly of volunteers, works tirelessly to ensure that people feel informed, empowered, and far less isolated and alone.

About the role

The aim of this role is to provide crucial one-to-one casework and support to people seeking asylum in the UK. Our Asylum Team assists asylum seekers in navigating the UK asylum process by finding them specialist solicitors and working with our volunteer interpreters to help them organise their paperwork.  We currently work with 100+ legal firms around the UK, providing an invaluable service to both the asylum-seeker and the overstretched legal immigration teams. You’ll have the chance to gain broad experience of working in a fast-paced and experienced team while meeting the ever-changing needs of those we support. So, if you thrive in a collaborative environment and are looking for a role where you can make a real difference, we want to hear from you! 

The Role  

As a Legal Access Caseworker, you’ll focus on providing outstanding support to your clients throughout the complex asylum process.

In this busy, hands-on role, you’ll gain a deep understanding of the function of the UK asylum system so we can provide the highest standards of service to those who need us most.  A key focus will be on maintaining accurate and complete records and processes and delivering high quality service to every one of our vulnerable clients. 

We are looking for people who have a genuine passion for human rights and refugee protection.  If this is you, please get in touch.

Responsibilities

• Manage own caseload of adult asylum seekers requiring legal representation to support their asylum claims and to challenge unsuitable accommodation, poor treatment, and uphold our client's rights. 

• Communicate effectively and sensitively with clients and refer to legal firms where appropriate. 

• Identify clients’ individual wellbeing needs and make onward referrals internally and externally in line with this. Provide emotional support to clients undertaking the process of claiming asylum in the UK.

• Liaise with legal teams on behalf of clients where necessary.

• Keep relevant records up to date to allow for quick and effective retrieval.

• Attend and contribute meaningfully to team meetings.

• Develop and maintain a network of key contacts within relevant authorities, legal teams dealing with immigration and public law matters, and other NGOs focused on support of refugees and people seeking asylum.

• Attend relevant external meetings representing the organisation as needed, ensuring that knowledge and learning is shared across the department. 

• Ensure that any safeguarding concerns are identified and responded to appropriately.

• Complete relevant external training required for you to undertake the role. 

Person Specification

Essential Criteria:

• Proven dedication to social justice with a clear understanding of the challenges faced by vulnerable populations.

• Ability to work sensitively and effectively with a diverse range of clients, demonstrating cultural competence, respect and compassion.

• Experience in efficiently managing high volume caseloads while maintaining a high standard of care and attention.

• Resilience in the face of challenging and emotionally demanding situations, with a positive and solution-oriented mindset.

• Exceptional written and oral communication skills, including the ability to convey complex information clearly and concisely.

• Meticulous attention to detail in documentation and case records, ensuring accuracy and compliance with protocols.

• Proactive and self-motivated, with the ability to take initiative.

• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office.

Desirable Criteria:

• Proficiency in one or more of the languages spoken within asylum seeking communities, such as but not limited to: Arabic, Farsi, Pashto, Dari, Kurdish Sorani, Tigrinya, Amharic.

Successful applicants will be provided with the induction and training needed for them to succeed in the role. 

Care4Calais is dedicated to cultivating a diverse and inclusive work environment and recognises that this is invaluable to our ability to serve the communities we support. 

We therefore welcome and encourage applications from diverse backgrounds including from Black, Asian and Minority-Ethnic communities, people from refugee and migrant backgrounds, and people with lived experience of the UK immigration system. If you have any questions about this or need additional support with the application process for any reason, please contact us.

We invite you to participate and develop your professional and human capabilities in a project of immersion and study of the reality related to the Human Rights of people and families displaced by political violence and their situation of extreme poverty in the Peruvian Andes, especially women. . and children, many of these families, especially children, suffer from health-related problems and malnutrition, lack of educational opportunities and very low self-esteem as a consequence of their social and cultural stigmatization in addition to the lack of job opportunities for their parents.

We intervene directly in these areas and communities, with a holistic approach and carrying out direct social work, our methodology is direct contact with these families and people

We are carrying out research on human rights and gender issues, socioeconomic studies and the impact of the dominant modern culture on the rights and cultural traditions of these people, in addition to carrying out numerous case studies as well as activities related to education, cultural revaluation, gender violence and others

 WE OFFER:

• Option for accommodation in a private room in the organization's house.
• Healthy basic foods and exchange of national or international dishes, local food options upon request.
• Basic work materials.
• Improve your level of Spanish with practical courses from basic Spanish to advanced Spanish
• Personalized advice and tutoring 24 hours a day by members of the organization
• Every weekend there are excursions, campsites and expeditions to many beautiful and enigmatic places, as well as tourist places in the Andes, the jungle of Peru. They are non-commercial trips. There is no additional cost to accompany or guide you.
• Wi-Fi Internet access.
• Work and integration in a very united multicultural team.
• Total sociocultural immersion, living reality and real native culture, interacting with people from the communities, visiting museums, fairs and native markets or participating in celebrations that we organize together to achieve the organization's objectives.
• Learn and experience ancient Andean spiritual and healing traditions (optional) and is intended for interested individuals only.
• Possibility of holding a paid position in the organization, fundraising, teaching courses, etc. They are paid activities.

REQUIREMENTS:

• minimum age: 18+ years.
• have an open, tolerant and positive mentality.
• It is very important to have skill and patience when dealing with young children (5-9 years).
• possess native English or advanced level of English.
• Fill out and send the Application form found on our website
• (optional) skills or interests related to yoga, fitness, holistic energy health, and related spiritual philosophies.
• Highly motivated person who accepts facing challenges.
• ability to work and integrate into a multicultural team.
• (optional) have some level of Spanish.
• Although anyone can apply for the Volunteer position, the internship is aimed at students or university graduates or those with technical training.
• contact or communication via Skype, WhatsApp or social network.

COST:

There is no cost to volunteer with our organization.

Accommodation:

option of accommodation in the organization's home at a low price, 50% discount or exemption from this contribution for accommodation from the second month of participation to those participants who have good social work and integration into our work team. (for more details see the accommodation option on our website)

Become a Trustee of Pregnant Then Screwed- Our vision is for a society where care is valued and in which pregnant women and mothers in all their diversity are enabled to fulfil their potential; creating a stronger, happier, better future for us all.

Trustees are integral volunteers who steer the course of Pregnant Then Screwed. We're currently seeking up to 5 new trustees as some current board members are concluding their terms this year and we’re keen to diversify our board.

We are looking for individuals inspired by our mission, and are seeking to appoint board members with experience, skills and expertise that will enhance our ability to tackle the discrimination mothers face.

We are seeking individuals with these general skills :

• Strategic vision, integrity, and independent judgement.

• Creativity in problem-solving.

• Understanding of trusteeship legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities.

• Experience in committee work.

• Tact and diplomacy.

• Dedication to investing necessary time and effort (approximately 2 days per month).

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

• Impartiality, fairness and discretion.

• Knowledge of charity law, governance, and financial management.

• Proficiency in monitoring and evaluating performance in the charity sector.

• Engagement in fundraising and engagement activities for Pregnant Then Screwed.

• Provide guidance on new initiatives and other issues in your area of expertise.

And would particularly welcome applications from candidates with a track-record in the following areas (we do not expect you to have ALL these):

• Digital Communications: Utilising digital platforms for effective communication.

• Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI): Commitment to promoting EDI.

• Safeguarding Adults: Knowledge and experience in safeguarding.

• Charity Fundraising: Developing and executing fundraising strategies.

• Research and Data Analysis: Gathering, analysing, and interpreting data.

• Membership Development: Implementing strategies to attract and retain members.

• Engaging Corporates: Building and maintaining corporate relationships.

• A good working knowledge of either the political landscape in Scotland and/or the childcare sector in Scotland - its challenges, policies and opportunities for improvement. As well as being well networked with Scottish Parliamentarians / relevant Scottish charities / those in the Scottish childcare sector.

• Experience of Working in the Trade Union sector: Familiarity with union dynamics and issues.

• Human Resources (HR): Understanding HR practices, especially related to maternity discrimination.

• People and Culture: Experience of developing organisational culture in alignment with our commitment to equity and inclusion.

Job Description

Volunteer monitoring work with the IMB gives you the opportunity to make a real difference to people’s lives. You will listen to prisoners and people in immigration detention, talk to staff and see for yourself what is actually happening behind the walls.

The IMB is recruiting for new members at numerous prisons and at immigration detention centres across England and Wales, and at short term holding facilities across the UK.  We are looking for people who live within approximately 30 miles (or one hour) of their closest establishment and can commit the time to make 2 to 3 visits per month, although this may be slightly higher during the first year of training and this can be flexible depending on the needs of the Board and the individual. Please visit the IMB website for a full list of all locations we are recruiting to.

Who are the IMB?

We’re a group of ordinary members of the public, doing an extraordinary job. As a passionate, personable individual, you could join us in making a difference. In this unpaid role, you’ll volunteer your talent and time towards securing a decent day-to-day life for every prisoner and detainee. Under the guidance of dedicated mentors and an extensive training programme, you’ll commit to a flexible schedule of visits to a local establishment each month.  Although this is an unpaid role, we pay travel and subsistence expenses, childcare or carer costs and, in certain circumstances, contributions towards loss of earnings.  Your observations will have an impact as your Board reports its findings to Ministers in His Majesty’s Government. 

About the role

With unrestricted access to these unique environments, you’ll gain a rare insight into all aspects of life in custody. Impartial and highly influential, you can decide what shape your visits should take. As an independent monitor, you may spend time in a specific part of the establishment and choose to have your conversations with prisoners or detainees out of sight or hearing of a member of staff. As well as keeping a close eye on daily operations, you’ll play a crucial role in dealing with problems that arise. This could be in response to a confidential request to see a member of the IMB, or to observe the management of the more serious incidents that occur.

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.

Closing date for completed applications is 29 April 2024.

Visit our website for more information and to complete the online application form.   

Voluntary position, based at our office in Clerkenwell, London
Full-time or part-time (3-4 days per week for a minimum of three months)
Closing date and interviews: recruitment on rolling basis
Suitable for: Legal researchers or Lawyers qualified in any jurisdiction (there is no minimum PQE requirement) with expertise in international human rights and humanitarian law
Fluency in English is essential. Fluency in Turkish and/or French would be highly desirable

The Democratic Progress Institute (DPI) is seeking to appoint several legal volunteers with an interest in our work relating to conflict resolution. We are offering a number of internships to outstanding candidates. Admission to our internship program is on a rolling-basis, lasting at least three months, and is unpaid. The successful candidates will be current or recent postgraduates or at post-doctoral level.

Volunteers recruited to DPI’s International Law Department will assist with all areas of its work, in particular, current projects relating to the implementation of ECtHR judgments in Turkey and legal analysis on matters related to international humanitarian law. Other work could include legal research, monitoring and analysis of human rights issues, documentation/organisation of legal materials, analysis of ECtHR judgments, preparing and drafting communications to United Nations bodies, contributing to casework, preparing papers for submission to the Human Dimension of the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe, editing reports, and providing general support to the legal team. In return, we will provide experience of and insight into the world of international human rights litigation and exposure to legal research at the forefront of conflict-resolution and peace-building.

The suitable candidate will be available ideally full time (Monday to Friday, 9.30 to 17.30) but other arrangements can be made. You will have the opportunity to assist with the general work of the legal department for a period of three to six months, with a particular focus on our legal case-work and on the implementation of ECtHR judgments in Turkey. Candidates are expected to have excellent verbal and written English skills, a strong visual eye, good attention to detail and strong organisational skills. Working well either alone or as part of a team, you will have experience of working with a diverse range of people.

Job Description

Volunteer monitoring work with the IMB gives you the opportunity to make a real difference to people’s lives. You will listen to prisoners and people in immigration detention, talk to staff and see for yourself what is actually happening behind the walls.

The IMB is recruiting for new members at numerous prisons and at immigration detention centres across England and Wales, and at short term holding facilities across the UK.  We are looking for people who live within approximately 30 miles (or one hour) of their closest establishment and can commit the time to make 2 to 3 visits per month, although this may be slightly higher during the first year of training and this can be flexible depending on the needs of the Board and the individual. Please visit the IMB website for a full list of all locations we are recruiting to.

Who are the IMB?

We’re a group of ordinary members of the public, doing an extraordinary job. As a passionate, personable individual, you could join us in making a difference. In this unpaid role, you’ll volunteer your talent and time towards securing a decent day-to-day life for every prisoner and detainee. Under the guidance of dedicated mentors and an extensive training programme, you’ll commit to a flexible schedule of visits to a local establishment each month.  Although this is an unpaid role, we pay travel and subsistence expenses, childcare or carer costs and, in certain circumstances, contributions towards loss of earnings.  Your observations will have an impact as your Board reports its findings to Ministers in His Majesty’s Government. 

About the role

With unrestricted access to these unique environments, you’ll gain a rare insight into all aspects of life in custody. Impartial and highly influential, you can decide what shape your visits should take. As an independent monitor, you may spend time in a specific part of the establishment and choose to have your conversations with prisoners or detainees out of sight or hearing of a member of staff. As well as keeping a close eye on daily operations, you’ll play a crucial role in dealing with problems that arise. This could be in response to a confidential request to see a member of the IMB, or to observe the management of the more serious incidents that occur.

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.

Closing date for completed applications is 29 April 2024.

Visit our website for more information and to complete the online application form.   

Job Description

Volunteer monitoring work with the IMB gives you the opportunity to make a real difference to people’s lives. You will listen to prisoners and people in immigration detention, talk to staff and see for yourself what is actually happening behind the walls.

The IMB is recruiting for new members at numerous prisons and at immigration detention centres across England and Wales, and at short term holding facilities across the UK.  We are looking for people who live within approximately 30 miles (or one hour) of their closest establishment and can commit the time to make 2 to 3 visits per month, although this may be slightly higher during the first year of training and this can be flexible depending on the needs of the Board and the individual. Please visit the IMB website for a full list of all locations we are recruiting to.

Who are the IMB?

We’re a group of ordinary members of the public, doing an extraordinary job. As a passionate, personable individual, you could join us in making a difference. In this unpaid role, you’ll volunteer your talent and time towards securing a decent day-to-day life for every prisoner and detainee. Under the guidance of dedicated mentors and an extensive training programme, you’ll commit to a flexible schedule of visits to a local establishment each month.  Although this is an unpaid role, we pay travel and subsistence expenses, childcare or carer costs and, in certain circumstances, contributions towards loss of earnings.  Your observations will have an impact as your Board reports its findings to Ministers in His Majesty’s Government. 

About the role

With unrestricted access to these unique environments, you’ll gain a rare insight into all aspects of life in custody. Impartial and highly influential, you can decide what shape your visits should take. As an independent monitor, you may spend time in a specific part of the establishment and choose to have your conversations with prisoners or detainees out of sight or hearing of a member of staff. As well as keeping a close eye on daily operations, you’ll play a crucial role in dealing with problems that arise. This could be in response to a confidential request to see a member of the IMB, or to observe the management of the more serious incidents that occur.

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.

Closing date for completed applications is 29 April 2024.

Visit our website for more information and to complete the online application form.   

Job Description

Volunteer monitoring work with the IMB gives you the opportunity to make a real difference to people’s lives. You will listen to prisoners and people in immigration detention, talk to staff and see for yourself what is actually happening behind the walls.

The IMB is recruiting for new members at numerous prisons and at immigration detention centres across England and Wales, and at short term holding facilities across the UK.  We are looking for people who live within approximately 30 miles (or one hour) of their closest establishment and can commit the time to make 2 to 3 visits per month, although this may be slightly higher during the first year of training and this can be flexible depending on the needs of the Board and the individual. Please visit the IMB website for a full list of all locations we are recruiting to.

Who are the IMB?

We’re a group of ordinary members of the public, doing an extraordinary job. As a passionate, personable individual, you could join us in making a difference. In this unpaid role, you’ll volunteer your talent and time towards securing a decent day-to-day life for every prisoner and detainee. Under the guidance of dedicated mentors and an extensive training programme, you’ll commit to a flexible schedule of visits to a local establishment each month.  Although this is an unpaid role, we pay travel and subsistence expenses, childcare or carer costs and, in certain circumstances, contributions towards loss of earnings.  Your observations will have an impact as your Board reports its findings to Ministers in His Majesty’s Government. 

About the role

With unrestricted access to these unique environments, you’ll gain a rare insight into all aspects of life in custody. Impartial and highly influential, you can decide what shape your visits should take. As an independent monitor, you may spend time in a specific part of the establishment and choose to have your conversations with prisoners or detainees out of sight or hearing of a member of staff. As well as keeping a close eye on daily operations, you’ll play a crucial role in dealing with problems that arise. This could be in response to a confidential request to see a member of the IMB, or to observe the management of the more serious incidents that occur.

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.

Closing date for completed applications is 29 April 2024.

Visit our website for more information and to complete the online application form.   

Job Description

Volunteer monitoring work with the IMB gives you the opportunity to make a real difference to people’s lives. You will listen to prisoners and people in immigration detention, talk to staff and see for yourself what is actually happening behind the walls.

The IMB is recruiting for new members at numerous prisons and at immigration detention centres across England and Wales, and at short term holding facilities across the UK.  We are looking for people who live within approximately 30 miles (or one hour) of their closest establishment and can commit the time to make 2 to 3 visits per month, although this may be slightly higher during the first year of training and this can be flexible depending on the needs of the Board and the individual. Please visit the IMB website for a full list of all locations we are recruiting to.

Who are the IMB?

We’re a group of ordinary members of the public, doing an extraordinary job. As a passionate, personable individual, you could join us in making a difference. In this unpaid role, you’ll volunteer your talent and time towards securing a decent day-to-day life for every prisoner and detainee. Under the guidance of dedicated mentors and an extensive training programme, you’ll commit to a flexible schedule of visits to a local establishment each month.  Although this is an unpaid role, we pay travel and subsistence expenses, childcare or carer costs and, in certain circumstances, contributions towards loss of earnings.  Your observations will have an impact as your Board reports its findings to Ministers in His Majesty’s Government. 

About the role

With unrestricted access to these unique environments, you’ll gain a rare insight into all aspects of life in custody. Impartial and highly influential, you can decide what shape your visits should take. As an independent monitor, you may spend time in a specific part of the establishment and choose to have your conversations with prisoners or detainees out of sight or hearing of a member of staff. As well as keeping a close eye on daily operations, you’ll play a crucial role in dealing with problems that arise. This could be in response to a confidential request to see a member of the IMB, or to observe the management of the more serious incidents that occur.

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.

Closing date for completed applications is 29 April 2024.

Visit our website for more information and to complete the online application form.   

Job Description

Volunteer monitoring work with the IMB gives you the opportunity to make a real difference to people’s lives. You will listen to prisoners and people in immigration detention, talk to staff and see for yourself what is actually happening behind the walls.

The IMB is recruiting for new members at numerous prisons and at immigration detention centres across England and Wales, and at short term holding facilities across the UK.  We are looking for people who live within approximately 30 miles (or one hour) of their closest establishment and can commit the time to make 2 to 3 visits per month, although this may be slightly higher during the first year of training and this can be flexible depending on the needs of the Board and the individual. Please visit the IMB website for a full list of all locations we are recruiting to.

Who are the IMB?

We’re a group of ordinary members of the public, doing an extraordinary job. As a passionate, personable individual, you could join us in making a difference. In this unpaid role, you’ll volunteer your talent and time towards securing a decent day-to-day life for every prisoner and detainee. Under the guidance of dedicated mentors and an extensive training programme, you’ll commit to a flexible schedule of visits to a local establishment each month.  Although this is an unpaid role, we pay travel and subsistence expenses, childcare or carer costs and, in certain circumstances, contributions towards loss of earnings.  Your observations will have an impact as your Board reports its findings to Ministers in His Majesty’s Government. 

About the role

With unrestricted access to these unique environments, you’ll gain a rare insight into all aspects of life in custody. Impartial and highly influential, you can decide what shape your visits should take. As an independent monitor, you may spend time in a specific part of the establishment and choose to have your conversations with prisoners or detainees out of sight or hearing of a member of staff. As well as keeping a close eye on daily operations, you’ll play a crucial role in dealing with problems that arise. This could be in response to a confidential request to see a member of the IMB, or to observe the management of the more serious incidents that occur.

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.

Closing date for completed applications is 29 April 2024.

Visit our website for more information and to complete the online application form.