Justice Minister Naomi Long said: “The Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) members provide a vital function in our prison system, monitoring the treatment of prisoners and the conditions of their imprisonment. Members are impartial observers of all aspects of the prison regime and have a real opportunity to make a tangible difference to people’s lives. I encourage anyone with an interest in this area of work, who think they have the appropriate skills, to apply for this rewarding role.”

IMB members are a regular presence in the prison establishments, reporting on the conditions in detention and the treatment of prisoners. This role also provides an opportunity to gain transferable employment skills such as decision making, teamwork and influencing others.

This opportunity is open to those over 18 and no formal qualifications are required for the role. It is more important that volunteers are effective communicators, enthusiastic, open minded, empathetic and have the ability to make sound, objective judgements.

Find out more about what the role of an IMB member involves on their YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-B2rWnCpes8 and then click the link below to find out more and how to apply:

Independent Monitoring Board Members (Voluntary) HMP Maghaberry 2024

Independent Monitoring Board Members (Voluntary) HMP Hydebank Wood College and Women’s Prison 2024

Independent Monitoring Board Members (Voluntary) HMP Magilligan 2024

Note: Members are initially appointed for a period of three years, with a possibility of re-appointment for a further two terms, up to a maximum of nine years. Members must reside in Northern Ireland. Interviews will generally take place in May and November. Please submit your application by 31 October for consideration in November 2024. Successful members will be appointed once security clearance has been completed successfully.