What Independent Prison Monitors Do
Independent Prison Monitors (IPMs) play a crucial role in upholding the rights and well-being of individuals in custody across Scotland. IPMs conduct regular visits to prisons, engaging directly with prisoners to ensure that their rights are being respected and that their concerns are heard. They assess the conditions within prisons, monitor treatment, and report their findings to ensure transparency and accountability within the prison system. By providing an independent and impartial perspective, IPMs contribute significantly to the humane treatment of prisoners, reinforcing the standards set by HM Inspectorate of Prisons for Scotland (HMIPS).
Why Become an Independent Prison Monitor?
Becoming an Independent Prison Monitor offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of those within the prison system. As an IPM, you'll have the chance to advocate for the rights of prisoners, influence positive change, and contribute to the overall improvement of prison conditions in Scotland. This volunteer role is not only rewarding but also provides invaluable experience in social justice, human rights, and criminal justice reform. If you're passionate about upholding human dignity and ensuring fair treatment for all, applying to become an IPM could be a highly fulfilling step.
Are you?
- Interested in making a unique contribution by monitoring the treatment of, and conditions for, prisoners in Scotland?
- Open-minded, a natural communicator and able to exercise sound, objective judgement?
- At least 18 years old?
- I have been resident in the UK for the last 3 years?
- Are physically able to undertake mandatory Personal Protection Training?
If the answers are yes, please see information below.
Application information
Before completing the online application form, please read the information pack and privacy notice at the bottom of this page. You are required to have read and understood this when completing the declaration section of the online application form.
Online application
The application form is online only. There is no application deadline, online applications will be processed as they are submitted. The application form guidance can be found at the bottom of this page.
*Please note that Independent Prison Monitor applications will be paused over the Christmas period and will reopen in January 2025. We look forward to welcoming new volunteers in the new year!
Here is a link to the online application form: IPM Online Application Form
Application stages
- Complete and submit an online application form
- HMIPS consider/sift applications and notify applicants by email
- Interviews take place
- Security checks are completed
- Internal and External Training takes place
Commitment
We generally ask people to go into an establishment once a fortnight but this will depend on individual’s availability and arrangements with their region’s coordinator. IPMs are expected to monitor for at least 2 years (up to a maximum of 9 years).
Training Programme
Internal Training by HMIPS:
- Awareness session - a guided tour of the prison with the regional coordinator, providing new monitors with first-hand exposure to the prison environment and an understanding of daily operations).
- IPM Core Training - an online Teams live session led by HMIPS team member that covers the essentials of being a prison monitor, including monitoring standards, case management systems, and the theoretical foundations of prison oversight.
- First visit - an introductory visit to the assigned prison where monitors, accompanied by a mentor or experienced staff member, observe daily routines and begin to familiarize themselves with the environment, roles, and responsibilities involved in prison monitoring.
External mandatory SPS Training:
- Personal Protection Training (PPT Non-Ops) - a practical training focused on essential personal safety skills and protocols specific to the prison environment to ensure monitors can confidently navigate and manage any risks. Core once and then Annual Refresher.
- Professional Boundaries (PB) - Guidance on maintaining clear, ethical boundaries in prison monitoring to ensure impartiality, professionalism, and integrity in all interactions. Completed once.
- Talk-to-Me Awareness (TTM) - a communication skills workshop designed to build rapport, promote respectful interactions, and effectively engage with inmates and prison staff to support a constructive monitoring process. Completed once.
- Key Vending/Security - a specialized training covering the proper handling, security, and accountability of prison keys. This session ensures monitors understand the protocols for key management to maintain safety and prevent unauthorized access within the prison. Completed once at each establishment IPMs are allocated to.
- Local Induction including Fire safety and evacuation - an introduction to the specific prison where the monitor will be working. This includes meeting key staff, understanding local procedures, and familiarizing with site-specific protocols and layouts to ensure smooth entry and operations within the facility. Completed once at each establishment IPMs are allocated to.
Optional Development Opportunities
Once appointed, Independent Prison Monitors (IPMs) will have access to a range of optional training resources to enhance their skills and knowledge. These resources include subjects such as drug-related issues, trauma-informed approaches, and other professional development topics designed to support their important work in prisons.