Blog: Volunteers’ Week 2026
This Volunteers’ Week (1-7 June 2026), we want to highlight the vital role that thousands of volunteers play across the UK NPM. Through conducting monitoring visits, reporting findings and giving a voice to vulnerable populations that often go unheard, volunteers continue to make a real impact to those deprived of their liberty. Volunteers’ insights also help shape national discussion and policy, helping to drive change at a systemic level. Below, you can read some reflections from colleagues within the UK NPM that showcase the importance and value of volunteers.
Visit our “Volunteer” page to browse volunteering options available within the UK NPM.
The UK NPM extends its sincere thanks to all volunteers who monitor places of deprivation of liberty!
Sherry Ralph
CEO, Independent Custody Visiting Association
Independent Custody Visitor
Dorset
Sopella Zvekare
Independent Prison Monitor, HMP Low Moss
Independent Custody Visitor
Northern Ireland
Ben
Chair of the IMB at HMP/YOI Bronzefield