SPONSORED EDITORIAL

It’s a pretty safe bet that you have never been to prison. But there is a very good chance that you will if you join a group of local people who are members of a very unusual organisation.

Called the Independent Monitoring Board, their role is exactly that. To independently monitor prisons. In this case three prisons all on Sheppey - HMP Swaleside, Elmley and Standford Hill - and all of them are now looking to recruit new members to their boards.

Think of a volunteer and your mind will probably wander to somebody behind the counter at the local charity shop. But IMB members have an edgier life than most volunteers.

“Edgier maybe, but totally absorbing," said Dr Michael Day, chairman of Standford Hill IMB.

"If anybody is looking for a new challenge in 2017, then this could be for them.”

What exactly to IMB members have to do?

“The prime role is to ensure that the Ministry of Justice rules and regulations are properly applied and that the highest standards of care and decency are maintained," said Dr Day of Standford Hill.

Tasks can range from carrying out 'surgeries’ for prisoners who need a problem solved, to being called in to be the independent eyes during an incident.

The job, which is unpaid but expenses are covered, is hugely interesting and challenging.

What qualifications do I need to volunteer?

You need to be enthusiastic, open minded, have good communication skills and have the ability to exercise sound, objective judgement.

You don’t need any special qualifications or experience, as all the necessary training and support will be provided.You do need to live within about 30-40 miles of the prison and be able to visit the establishment about four to five times a month.

“IMB members get involved in both small things like locating prisoners’ missing property, and some pretty big things, like being a major influence on changes within prisons,” said Dr Day.

What type of person becomes an IMB member?

“Well it take all sorts and ages vary considerably, and while older people often have more time, we are really interested in recruiting younger members as well,” added Dr Day.

Every prison and Immigration Removal Centre in England and Wales has an IMB and every year each establishment produces an annual report for the Ministry of Justice with recommendations on actions which need to be taken.

Different prison governors have different views about this as do staff and prisoners. But one governor recently said ‘the IMB are my conscience’ and another ‘the IMB are my insurance policy’.

Dr Day added: "As a postscript, it’s probably a pretty healthy thing that prison staff often accuse us of 'being on the side of the prisoner' while prisoners accuse us of 'being on the side of the officers'. While that opinion remains, we have probably just about got the balance right.

To find out more

For more information on becoming an Independent Monitoring Board member at HMP Swaleside, Elmley and Standford Hill, apply here or call 020 3334 3265.

The closing date for applications is Monday, February 19