DoJ Recruiting For New Independent Monitoring Board Members

Justice Minister, Naomi Long, has called on those with an interest in prisons and improving prison life in Northern Ireland, to apply to become board members of the Independent Monitoring Board(IMB), who play a crucial role in the oversight of prisons.

Minister Long said: "The Independent Monitoring Board 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 our Youtube channel.

Further information and how to apply is available at the publication section of this website.