By Isle of Wight Observer
Are you looking for a voluntary role that offers a rare insight into a world few people ever see? The Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) at HMP Isle of Wight is now hoping to recruit local residents to join its team.
IMB members are unpaid volunteers who report on whether prisoners are treated fairly and humanely, and whether they are receiving the support they need to turn their lives around.
Vicky, a current IMB member, said: “It could be the most rewarding thing you ever do. You can make a real difference to prison life – not just by responding to individual requests or complaints, but by raising concerns about anything from crumbling buildings to people being segregated for too long. You see the criminal justice system from the inside. We have unrestricted access to the prison and can speak to any prisoner privately, helping us monitor day‑to‑day life across the establishment.”
The IMB is looking for people who share its values and want to give back to their community. You’ll need to work well as part of a team, be enthusiastic and open minded, with the ability to make sound objective judgments. Members come from all walks of life – you just need to be over 18 and live within 30 miles of HMP Isle of Wight.
Training and support are provided throughout a 12‑month induction. Although unpaid, expenses, childcare/carer costs and, in some cases, loss‑of‑earnings contributions are covered.
Visit iw.observer/prison-volunteer before February 18 to find out more, or apply.