by Graham Tutthill

More volunteers are needed to be “the eyes and ears” of the Home Secretary at Dover’s Immigration Removal Centre.

An appeal has been made to people to give up some of their spare time and ensure that those who are held at the centre are treated decently and humanely – and that the food is up to standard!

“Members of the Independent Monitoring Board have a valuable and important role to play,” said the group’s chairman John Roper.

“Monitoring the kitchen is just one aspect of the broad range of work they undertake in their role as watchdogs within the immigration system.

“In effect, members are the eyes and ears of the Home Secretary and of the public.”

Working on a rota basis, the 10-strong team has access to the centre at any time and inspects everything from the separation unit and accommodation blocks to the workshops and health care centre.

The board holds monthly meetings, and has to submit an annual report to the Home Secretary. “Members of the board come from all walks of life, religions, races and beliefs and are of all ages,” said Mr Roper.

“There is no common ground except for a keen sense of fairness and a desire to make a difference.

Being a board member promises endless opportunities, with introductions to all manner of characters. Although the role can be tough, demanding and challenging, it never fails to be extremely rewarding and worthwhile.”

Training is provided and the duties take up the equivalent of about two to three days per month. Applicants should ideally live within about 20 miles of the centre.

Anyone wishing to find out more should contact the IMB Clerk at Dover Immigration Removal Centre on 01304 246425.