New helpline providing advice to monitoring officers launched

A new helpline to provide advice to monitoring officers on the "full spectrum of scenarios" has been launched by the Association of Monitoring Officers (AMO).

According to the newly launched professional body for monitoring officers, the helpline is staffed by experienced monitoring officer volunteers and is now “in action” after opening to enquiries earlier this month (5 January).

Commenting on the programme on its website, the association said: "The Monitoring Officer and Deputy Monitoring Officer role can sometimes feel quite isolated, but your fellow MO Helpline volunteers offer a network of support, wise counsel, and candour.

"Our volunteers are not just here to help you through the challenges but also to offer their experience on issues such as career changes, moving into different roles and/or the practical differences between the various tiers of authorities."

Monitoring officers can fill out a helpline enquiry form in order to request a phone call with a volunteer.

AMO said that the helpline cannot help with technical advice on specific issues or provide a resolution, personal employment-related advice, medical counselling or mental health support advice.

The helpline marks one of the first initiatives from AMO, which was recently launched in December 2025.

AMO's Executive Director, Rachel McKoy, said the association was "very excited" to "see the AMO Helpline in action following a successful launch on the 5 January 2026".

Commenting on social media, she also encouraged AMO members "to take advantage of this service", adding: "Although the AMO volunteers will be on hand to assist you with your tricky issues they are also here to offer their experience on issues such as career changes, moving into different roles and/or the practical differences between the various tiers of authorities.

"Please feel free to request a call to discuss these important matters also."

Adam Carey