Document Type: Protocols and memorandum of understanding

This memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been agreed between the Directorate of Security, His Majesty’s Prison & Probation Service, His Majesty’s Courts and Tribunal Service and the National Council for Lay Observers (LOs) on behalf of individual LOs with specific reference to LOs having access to Category A detainees when they are attending court.

This memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been agreed between the Prisoner Escort and Custody Services (in Her Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS)), Her Majesty’s Courts and Tribunal Service and the National Council for Lay Observers on behalf of individual Lay Observers.

This protocol has been drawn up by the Ministry of Justice and the Lay Observers’ National Council. It sets out at a high level the role of each body in relation to the other, and the responsibilities of the principal individuals in running, sponsoring and overseeing the Lay Observers’ Secretariat.

This protocol sets out a broad principle for how Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Prisons (HMI Prisons), Independent Monitoring Boards (IMBs), Lay Observers and the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman (PPO) will work together - in line with obligations under the Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (OPCAT).