Make a difference to a young person’s life
Volunteers wanted for the Children’s Panel in Renfrewshire
02.06.2017 Committed volunteers who devote their time to helping young people living troubled lives are being praised during national Volunteers’Week Scotland.
In Renfrewshire there are around 100 volunteers helping to run the local Children’s Hearing System, Scotland’s distinctive approach to dealing with children and young people who are in trouble or at risk.
The recognition of their commitment comes ahead of this year’s drive to recruit more than 500 new Children’s Panel members of all ages and backgrounds to make sure the system continues to offer the best possible support.
Paisley woman Angela Stevenson, 49, applied to help children and families in her area and has been a panel member for two years.
She said: “The Children’s Panel is unlike any other voluntary role.
“You have the opportunity to have a positive impact on the lives of young people in your community.
“I believe that my own life experiences help me relate to some of the circumstances affecting children and young people within the hearing system, and I wanted to be a part of bringing positive changes to their lives.
“Being a panel member makes you look at life from a whole different perspective. It does require a commitment of your time ,but it is a hugely rewarding and worthwhile role.”
The most recent figures show across Scotland, 15,329 children and young people were referred to the Scottish Children’s Reporter Administration in 2015/ 16, resulting in 34,896 Children’s Hearings taking place.
The system, which deals with troubled or at risk children and young people who are in need of care, or who have offended, relies on the generosity, skills and commitment of those who volunteer their time.
Hearings vary in duration, but on average for panel members each lasts around an hour. In addition, panel members have to attend training to maintain their skills and knowledge.
Boyd McAdam, national convener and chief executive of Children’s Hearings Scotland, paid tribute to the volunteers.
He said: “Their commitment and contribution is remarkable, and it’s important it is recognised and valued.
“The system wouldn’t exist without them, and their dedication means that children and young people who are troubled or at risk can be cared for and protected.
“For that, I would like to personally thank all our volunteers and would encourage anyone who thinks they could make a difference to consider applying.”
Recruitment for new Children’s Panel members will open in August.
To find out more and to register your interest, go to www. childrenspanelscotland.org