Independent Monitoring Boards

Independent Monitoring Boards are an important part of the independent oversight of prisons and places of immigration detention. Were ordinary members of the public holding an extraordinary public office. We provide an external presence in closed environments, monitoring the treatment and conditions of detained people, reporting what we find, and dealing with queries and concerns from individuals. Were unpaid, but are appointed by government ministers and have statutory powers to go anywhere within the prison, talk to prisoners and see documents. As part of the National Preventive Mechanism we also contribute to the government commitment to monitor detention and prevent torture and ill-treatment. IMB members work an average of 3-4 visits per month, with expenses reimbursed. We have unrestricted access to our local prison or immigration detention centre at any time and can talk to any prisoner or detainee we wish, out of sight and hearing of members of staff if necessary. A ...