DO you want to go to North-East prisons three times a month and speak with prisoners? An organisation is looking for "open-minded" volunteers to do just that.

Do you believe everyone in custody deserves to be treated fairly? Are you looking for a role that gives insight into a world that few people see?

The local Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) are looking for volunteers for its being teams of prison game-changers in Stockton-on-Tees, Durham, Morpeth and Barnard Castle.

It is looking for people from all walks of life to join and visit the prison two to three times a month, including HMP Northumberland near Morpeth; HMP Durham, HMP Frankland and HMP Low Newton in and around Durham; HMP Kirklevington Grange and HMP Holme House in and around Stockton on Tees; and HMP Deerbolt near Barnard Castle.

You would monitor activity across the prison including talking to prisoners, making sure they are treated fairly and are given the support they need to stop reoffending.

Successful applicants will have full access to the prison they are placed at, meaning you could soon be walking down the corridors of HMP Frankland, Durham's Category A men's prison where Manchester Arena plotter Hashem Abedi is currently being held.

Although it’s unpaid, travel, childcare and loss of earnings expenses can be claimed while comprehensive training and support is provided as well as the experience being "the most rewarding".

As Charles Ing, chair of the IMB at HMP Deerbolt said: “It could be the most rewarding thing you have ever done. 

"You can make a real difference to prison life, not just in responding to an individual prisoner’s request or complaint, but also by raising concerns about everything from crumbling buildings to people being kept in solitary confinement for too long.” 

Richard Wilkinson, a member of the IMB at HMP Frankland added: “You see the criminal justice system from the inside and work as part of a really dedicated IMB team. Anyone over 18 can apply - prisoners come from all backgrounds and so should our members.” 

Monitors in over 117 IMBs across England and Wales come from all walks of life including students, firefighters, small business owners, teachers, health professionals and people who are looking to strengthen their skills as part of a life or career change.

Key qualities needed include analysis, decision making, communication and teamwork skills, and a commitment to independence and inclusion, as well as an open-minded approach.

Candidates undergo selection and vetting processes, which can take a number of months, ahead of being formally appointed by Ministers in line with the Government’s public appointments process. 

Anyone interested can book onto one of the virtual events being held in April, where you will hear from current IMB members, or apply online at https://www.imb.org.uk/