Children's hearings system is seeking new panel members

Children’s Hearings Scotland (CHS), which recruits, trains and supports Panel Members who sit at children’s hearings, has launched its annual recruitment campaign for volunteers to join more than 2,200 who serve across the country.

Siobhian Brown, Minister for Children, Young People and The Promise, said: “Panel Members play a vital role in the Children’s Hearings System, listening to children, young people and families before making important decisions that can have a positive impact on their lives.

“It is a unique and rewarding opportunity to make a real difference in communities across Scotland.”

Care-experienced young people, part of CHS’s ‘Experts by Experience’ group, were involved in developing the advertising campaign across TV, radio, print, social media and other formats.

Hearings are legal meetings set up because there are concerns about the wellbeing or care of an infant, child or young person.

At each hearing, three Panel Members make legal decisions with and for the infant, child or young person. The Panel Member’s role includes making sure that the young person is at the heart of the decisions made.

All volunteers receive comprehensive training and are supported continually by CHS experts, including local volunteer Area Support Teams.

Anne Wilson, a serving panel member in the South East region, said: “It is one of the most rewarding things I have ever done, and the benefits go both ways. We want to make a difference in the lives of children and young people, and serving on the Panel can be transformative in our own lives.”

Elliot Jackson, CHS national convener and chief executive, added: “Wherever you are in Scotland, and whatever your background, if you have the right qualities, this can be one of the most fulfilling roles in your life.”

The campaign runs until midnight on Wednesday, September 23. Find out more and apply at the CHS website. Appointments are for a three-year term initially.