Appeal for children’s panel volunteers

Residents in Rutherglen and Cambuslang are being urged to volunteer to help vulnerable children and young people.

Children’s Hearings Scotland has issued the call for the 30 new Children’s Panel members from South Lanarkshire.

This year’s recruitment campaign is focused on highlighting what it means to be a panel member in a bid to attract the right candidates – and Children’s Hearings Scotland appealed to those with compassion, empathy and the ability to listen to come forward.

To equip each applicant for the role, there is an initial training programme, spread over two years. Once trained, panel members must commit to on-going training as well as preparation ahead of attending one to two hearing sessions per month.

Boyd McAdam, national convener and chief executive of Children’s Hearings Scotland, said: “Without the support and commitment of our volunteers, there wouldn’t be a hearings system in Scotland. The role is unique, and those who give their time are unswerving in their dedication to improve the lives of those children and young people who are vulnerable or troubled.

“This year, we want to be clear about the commitment involved in being a panel member in a bid to ensure people who apply understand what being a panel member involves.

“Although the commitment is considerable, it is equally rewarding, if not more so. By giving your time, you can help make a real difference to the life of a child or young person facing an uncertain future.”

There will be an information evening on September 14 at 7pm in the Council Offices on Almada Street in Hamilton for those who are interested.

Applicants need to be 18 or over. The deadline for applications is September 25, 2016. To find out more about becoming a panel member visit www.childrenspanelscotland.org.