Bedford woman to be named in Queen's birthday honours for work at Yarl’s Wood

Jane Leech of Bedford is being recognised for her work at Yarl’s Wood immigration removal centre in the Queen’s delayed birthday honours list.

Jane, who is being awarded an MBE, has been a member of the Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) at Yarl’s Wood immigration removal centre near the town for 14 years.

She said: “It’s a wonderful surprise and a huge honour to be awarded an MBE. I am passionate about the role and about the value of IMBs: in these uncertain times, when so many people are on the move across the globe, it’s never been more important to check that those who find themselves in immigration detention are treated justly and humanely.

“Many people may not be aware that every prison and immigration centre has an IMB team of dedicated volunteers who act as the ‘eyes and ears’ of the public and provide independent scrutiny, so I am delighted that our vital and hugely rewarding work has been recognised in this way.”

Dame Anne Owers, IMB national chair, said: “I am delighted that Jane’s invaluable contribution to the IMBs, and to immigration detention in particular, has been recognised in this way. For 14 years, as a member and chair of the board, Jane has played a crucial role in monitoring the conditions and treatment of women in detention at Yarl’s Wood.

“For the last five years, as part of the national governance structure, she has played a key role in developing and implementing policies to support all boards and members. I, and all my IMB colleagues have benefited hugely from her advice and guidance and we wish her all the very best as she and her family celebrate this much-deserved honour.”