THE NATIONAL PREVENTIVE MECHANISM
The UK National Preventive Mechanism (UKNPM) was established in 2009 following the UK’s
ratification of the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture (OPCAT). It comprises 21
statutory bodies that independently monitor places of detention to prevent torture and ill-
treatment.
The UK’s National Preventive Mechanism (NPM) was established in March 2009 after the UK ratified
the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading
Treatment or Punishment (OPCAT) in December 2003. It is made up of 21 statutory bodies that
independently monitor places of detention.
The NPM was set up to ensure regular visits to places of detention in order to prevent torture and
other ill-treatment, as required by OPCAT. OPCAT recognises that people in detention are
particularly vulnerable and requires States to set up a national level body that can support efforts to
prevent their ill treatment. The NPM must have, as a minimum, the powers to:
• regularly examine the treatment of persons deprived of their liberty in all places of detention
under the UK’s jurisdiction and control;
• make recommendations to relevant authorities with the aim of improving the treatment and
conditions of persons deprived of their liberty;
• submit proposals and observations on existing or draft legislation
The NPM publishes an annual report of its work which is presented to Parliament by the Lord
Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice. For further information on the role and work of the
NPM, please visit National Preventive Mechanism - National Preventive Mechanism.
This is a senior leadership role requiring collaboration with NPM members, government officials,
and international bodies. The post holder will lead delivery of the NPM business plan, manage
governance processes, and influence detention policy and practice across the UK.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The National Preventive Mechanism is looking for an exceptional candidate to fill the role of Head of
the UKNPM Secretariat. This is a key post working in collaboration with 21 NPM-member
organisations, their heads and senior staff to provide policy, research and secretarial support to the
NPM. This role will manage a large network of relationships and work closely and collaboratively
with NPM members and the Chair. They are responsible for driving and managing the work of the
NPM, liaising closely with all members to develop consensus on joint priorities and work across the
NPM. They will lead on the development of NPM objectives and the development and delivery of an
NPM business plan. They will also lead the production of the NPM annual report.
The role involves facilitating collaborative working, balancing competing demands, juggling
priorities, and defining clear objectives between different organisations and senior stakeholders.
The post holder will draw on the different views and experiences from across the NPM, supporting
its 21 member bodies to work together in pursuit of common objectives and influence detention
policy and practice in line with international obligations.
The post-holder will liaise on behalf of the NPM with government, international bodies and a wide
range of high-level external stakeholders and provide advice and support to its constituent
members. This post involves some liaison with relevant international human rights bodies such as
the UN treaty body the Subcommittee on the Prevention of Torture (SPT) and the Council of
Europe’s Committee for the Prevention of Torture (CPT).
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Governance
• Lead development and delivery of the NPM business plan and annual report.
• Monitor and report progress to the Steering Group, ensuring effective governance and risk
management.
• Implement recommendations from strategic reviews to strengthen governance, structure,
and resources.
• Provide strategic advice and input into NPM task and finish groups and subgroups.
• Lead the development of external reports and training materials for a wide variety of issues
and audiences.
Coordination & Collaboration
• Facilitate and promote collaborative working among 21 NPM member organisations.
• Build consensus on joint priorities and support members to implement OPCAT obligations.
• Encourage sharing of best practice and human rights expertise across the network.
External Engagement
• Act as primary liaison between UKNPM members and UK government officials on OPCAT
implementation.
• With the UKNPM Chair where appropriate, represent the NPM to senior stakeholders,
NGOs, parliamentarians, and international bodies (e.g., UN Subcommittee on Prevention of
Torture, Council of Europe CPT).
• Speak at external events and manage NPM communications, including social media and
policy briefings.
Resource & People Management
• Manage NPM budget, financial reporting, and resource bids.
• Line manage the NPM staff team and oversee external consultants.
• Work collaboratively with the NPM Coordinator in Scotland.
Essential Skills & Experience
1. Proven ability to support complex, multi-stakeholder organisations and deliver to agreed
business plans.
2. Strong strategic thinking and influencing skills; ability to operate credibly at senior levels
across government and civil society.
3. Experience in policy development, governance, and human rights law application.
4. Proven experience in managing complex priorities, managing delivery risks effectively.
5. Demonstrated leadership and people management skills, including the ability to be flexible
and in motivating diverse and remote teams.
6. Excellent communication skills (written and verbal) and ability to manage competing
priorities.
7. Ability to work independently and in a self-motivated way to a high standard.
8. Expert sector knowledge in criminal justice, health, human rights, or scrutiny.
Desirable
1. Budget management experience.
2. Understanding of international torture prevention frameworks.
3. Experience monitoring places of detention.
4. Background in policy, communications, or organisational development.