Children’s panel in appeal for new members

Residents in Rutherglen and Cambuslang are being asked to put themselves forward for the South Lanarkshire children’s panel.

An information event will be held on September 20 giving people the chance to meet existing members of the panel.

The national Children’s Panel, Scotland’s largest lay tribunal, improves outcomes for vulnerable children and young people who are in need of care and protection or who have offended.

Figures highlight that, on average, over the last three years, a quarter of the total applications received (26 per cent) were from males — a figure Children’s Hearings Scotland is keen to increase in 2017 to ensure each panel continues to have the right representation.

A panel member from South Lanarkshire this week highlighted the positives of the role.

Martin Roberts, 25, was introduced to the panel by a friends and said: “I was nervous at first, but the training was so informative and taught me how to deal with difficult situations and conflict.

“It can be tough at times but knowing that you’re making a difference to a child’s life makes it all worthwhile.

“One of the best things about being a panel member is that you get to meet all kinds of different people, within and out with the panel itself.

“It’s easy to be stuck in our own bubble and not be aware of the struggles some families are facing. Being a panel member opens your eyes, gives you the ability to make a difference and you learn so much about the wider social environment.”

There are currently over 2,500 volunteer panel members across Scotland, however new recruits from a range of backgrounds are needed each year to ensure the system continues to offer the best support.

Boyd McAdam, national convener and chief executive of Children’s Hearings Scotland said: “The motivations of our panel volunteers are all different.

“For some, it is the desire to give something back. For others, it’s about being able to help a child or young person who is facing challenges in their life, or about making a valuable contribution to their community.

“What unites our volunteers is their genuine compassion and dedication. We need people from all backgrounds to make sure we continue to help change the lives of those children and young people who attend children’s hearings for the better.

“For those interested in taking the next step, I’d encourage them to visit our recruitment website, or head along to one of the local information evenings being held across the country to meet other panel members and find out more about the commitment required.”

Applicants need to be 18 or over. The deadline for applications is 26 September 2017.

To find out more about becoming a panel member, or to apply online visit www.childrenspanelscotland.org.

The information event on September 20 will take place at 7pm at South Lanarkshire Council HQ on September 20.