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Blog: incoming NPM Chair Sherry Ralph reflects on protecting and promoting the rights of all

Published:
Image of Sherry Ralph speaking at NPM Annual Conference 2024.

I am honoured to step into the role of Chair of the United Kingdom National Preventive Mechanism (UK NPM) at such a pivotal time. There is no doubt that all places of detention are experiencing extreme challenges, be that those of capacity, staffing, provision for those experiencing mental ill health and more. As we continue to navigate these complex challenges in safeguarding human rights, the importance of our work to prevent torture and ill treatment of people deprived of their liberty cannot be overstated. The NPM serves as a cornerstone in the protection of those who are most vulnerable – individuals deprived of their liberty.

The significance of the NPM’s work is rooted in the core values of justice and human dignity. As Chair, I am committed to upholding and advancing these principles, reinforcing the UK’s dedication to international human rights standards. The NPM’s independent oversight is essential in holding institutions accountable. There are no less than 3,500 staff and volunteers working to fulfil the OPCAT mandate as part of the UK NPM, undertaking a vast breadth and depth of scrutiny across all four nations of the UK.

So, why me as the new Chair? Well, I have worked in criminal justice for some considerable time, having held roles in a Young Offenders’ Institute, delivered training in a Male Category C prison, and undertaken some through-the-gates style work with HMP Holloway. I am currently the CEO of the Independent Custody Visiting Association (ICVA), an NPM body representing those who monitor police custody and I have been involved in monitoring police custody for more than eight years. In all roles I have held throughout my career, the protection of those who are reliant on the State for their basic needs has always been a personal and professional priority.

I am also honoured to have been a long-standing member of the NPM steering group, and as part of that group have been proud to assist the excellent NPM staff team to develop the current two-year business plan, set to conclude in 2025. This plan includes four key strands of work, including amplifying the voices of inspectors, monitors and organisations, upskilling staff and volunteers carrying out the OPCAT mandate with a focus on prevention, and continuing on the excellent collective work in train with NPM bodies. 

As with any new Chair, I have some priorities and those include developing the next business plan alongside the team and steering group, continuing to explore collective workstreams across NPM bodies from the four nations and from varying detention settings, and continuing to develop excellent domestic and international relationships to strengthen arrangements for preventive monitoring in these difficult times.

I look forward to working with our dedicated constituent bodies and the NPM central team to continue this vital work, striving to protect and promote the rights of all.

Sherry Ralph was appointed as Chair of the UK National Preventive Mechanism on 2 September 2024 for a three-year term. Sherry is also the CEO of the Independent Custody Visiting Association (ICVA), and brings with her a great wealth of experience in criminal justice and protection of rights.