Members of the public from different walks of life are being invited to join watchdogs responsible for the well-being and fair treatment of those held in secure facilities.

New lay members are needed for the two Independent Monitoring Boards which oversee the island’s prison and the adolescent secure care home.

Vacancies have also arisen on the Parole Committee, an independent body which assesses long-term prisoners eligible for early release.

Each of these bodies are seeking members from across the community to join them, and anyone can apply. While no formal qualifications are required, applicants need to show they have the interest, commitment, energy and time to play a full part.

The work involved is confidential and criminal record checks will be carried out on successful candidates, prior to appointment.

Home Affairs Minister Bill Malarkey said: ’These independent bodies perform a vital public service and we are indebted to those prepared to give considerable time to fulfilling their responsibilities.’

Potential recruits for the IMB roles can call in to a drop-in day at Ramsey town hall on Saturday November 23 and in the lobby area of the Sea Terminal on Sunday December 1, both stands operating from 10.30am until 4pm.