VOLUNTEERS are needed for the watchdogs that oversee Winchester Prison.

The Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) is looking for new members to monitor standards of care and fair treatment, talk to prisoners and staff, and attend monthly board meetings - becoming the “eyes and ears on the inside”.

The role is unpaid and independent of the prison.

John Tainton, chairman of the IMB, said: “You’ll work with people from all walks of life and at all levels. This is a position of trust and responsibility, and a prestigious ministerial appointment - your chance to do something unique and stand out from the crowd. Our prime role is to ensure that Ministry of Justice rules and regulations are properly applied and that the highest standards of care and decency are maintained.

“The job is hugely challenging and absorbing but it’s not for everyone. You need to be enthusiastic, open minded, resilient, have good communication skills and have the ability to exercise sound, objective judgement,” said Mr. Tainton.

No special qualifications or experience are needed and training and expenses are provided. Members must live within 30 miles and be able to dedicate about three to four days each month.

HMP Winchester is a Category B and C male prison for nearly 700 adults and young offenders.

The IMB was formerly known as the Board of Visitors.

Rota visits are carried out throughout the year where members tour the prison talking to prisoners and staff about any problems.

“We get involved in seemingly small things like locating prisoners’ missing property or worries about visits, to bigger matters like being a major influencer on changes within the prison,” said Mr. Tainton.

“The majority of prisoners’ issues are solved by the staff, but if a resolution is not found then the IMB may be asked to assist,” he added.

For more information visit imb.org.uk or call 020 3334 3265 quoting 586/Winchester/2017 in an application. The closing date is August 27.