Independent Prison Monitoring

HM Inspectorate of Prisons for Scotland (HMIPS)
VO101283

Are you looking for a volunteer opportunity that allows you to make a tangible difference in your community? Consider becoming an Independent Prison Monitor (IPM) in Scotland. This unique and impactful role offers you the chance to play a crucial part in ensuring that the human rights of prisoners are upheld within Scotland’s prison system.

What Does an Independent Prison Monitor Do?
As an IPM, your primary responsibility will be to visit prisons across Scotland to observe conditions, speak with prisoners, and assess whether they are being treated fairly and with dignity. You’ll be part of a team dedicated to promoting transparency and accountability within the prison system. Your findings will contribute to reports that influence policy and practices, ensuring that standards are maintained and prisoners’ rights are protected.

Who Can Apply?
One of the most powerful aspects of the IPM role is that it is open to everyone. Whether you are a student, a retiree, or someone looking to give back to the community, we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences. No specific qualifications are required—just a commitment to fairness, integrity, and respect for others.

Training and Support
Don’t worry if you’re new to this type of work. As an IPM, you’ll receive comprehensive training that covers everything you need to know, from the legal framework governing prisons to effective communication skills. You’ll be supported by experienced monitors and the team at His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Prisons for Scotland (HMIPS), ensuring you are fully equipped to carry out your duties.

The Benefits of Volunteering as an IPM
Volunteering as an IPM offers numerous personal and professional benefits. It’s an opportunity to develop valuable skills, including critical thinking, communication, and report writing. You’ll gain deep insights into the criminal justice system and human rights, which can be particularly beneficial if you’re considering a career in law, social work, or public policy.

Why Your Contribution Matters?
Prisons are often out of sight and out of mind for many, but they are an integral part of our society. How we treat those who are incarcerated says a great deal about our commitment to human rights and justice. By becoming an IPM, you ensure that the voices of prisoners are heard and that their conditions are regularly scrutinized. This helps to prevent mistreatment and promotes a culture of respect and fairness within the prison system.

How to Get Involved?
If you’re ready to make a difference, we encourage you to apply to become an Independent Prison Monitor. The process is straightforward: visit the HMIPS website to learn more about the role and complete the application form. You’ll be joining a diverse group of volunteers who share a commitment to justice and human rights.

Experience required

Strong communication and listening skills to effectively engage with prisoners and prison staff. IPMs should have a keen sense of fairness, attention to detail, and the ability to remain impartial. Critical thinking and report-writing skills are also useful for accurately assessing and documenting prison conditions.

Travel details

Travel to be arranged independently and reimbursed by HMIPS according Scottish Government to the rules and regulations.

Travel expenses

Permitted expenses will be reimbursed by HMIPS according Scottish Government to the rules and regulations.

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Training details

Volunteers for the Independent Prison Monitor (IPM) role receive comprehensive training that covers essential aspects of the position, effective communication techniques, standards and personal safety. The training equips them with the skills and knowledge needed to carry out monitoring duties confidently and ensures they are fully prepared to assess prison conditions and report their findings.