Children's Hearings Scotland (CHS) has launched its annual recruitment campaign for volunteer panel members to join more than 2,200 who serve across the country, including in Lanarkshire.
CHS recruits, trains and supports panel members who sit at children's hearings, which 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 young person, ensuring the young person is at the heart of the decisions made.
Minister highlights the role's impact
Speaking at the launch of the campaign, Siobhian Brown MSP, 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."
She added: "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, which launches today across TV, radio, print, social media and other formats.
Volunteers receive training and support
All volunteers receive comprehensive training before sitting on their first panel and are supported by CHS experts, including local volunteer Area Support Teams, throughout their time as a volunteer.
Anne Wilson, a serving panel member, 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, national convener and chief executive of CHS, 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. Panel members make a positive difference for infants, children and young people in their communities by putting their rights first."
How to apply
The campaign runs until midnight on Wednesday, September 23. Anyone interested in becoming a panel member can find out more, and apply, at the CHS website. Appointments are for a three-year term initially.
