Volunteers wanted to help prisoners in custody at Nottinghamshire prisons

Volunteers are wanted to visit prisons in Nottinghamshire to meet with offenders.
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The local Independent Monitoring Board teams at HMP Nottingham, HMP Lowdham Grange and HMP Foston Hall are looking for people from all walks of life to join and visit the prison two to three times a month.

Members monitor activity across the establishment, talk to prisoners and make sure they are treated fairly and are given the support they need to stop reoffending and rebuild their lives.

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Successful applicants have full access to the prison concerned in order to undertake the role, and although it’s unpaid, travel, childcare and loss of earnings expenses are available; comprehensive training and support is provided.

Volunteers are wanted to join the IMBVolunteers are wanted to join the IMB
Volunteers are wanted to join the IMB

Chairman of the IMB at HMP Lowdham Grange, Barbara Morgan, said: “You see the criminal justice system from the inside and work as part of a really dedicated IMB team.

"Anyone over 18 can apply, prisoners come from all backgrounds and so should our members.”

Monitors in more than 117 IMBs across England and Wales include students, firefighters, small business owners, teachers, health professionals and people who are looking to strengthen their skills as part of a life or career change.

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Key qualities needed include analysis, decision making, communication and teamworking skills, and a commitment to independence and inclusion, as well as an open-minded approach.

Candidates will undergo selection and vetting processes, which can take a number of months, ahead of being formally appointed by Ministers in line with the Government’s public appointments process.

Anyone interested can book onto one of the virtual events being held during April to hear from current IMB members about the role or apply direct at

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