Children's Panel appeal for Caithness and Sutherland volunteers
A call has been made for volunteers to get involved with the Children's Panel in Caithness and Sutherland.
Recruitment for new panel members began at the start of this month and those who run the service are keen to hear from people who are caring, compassionate and reliable and are good listeners.
Christine Stone, one of the panel representatives for the north district, comprising Caithness and Sutherland, explained that volunteers from all walks of life make decisions that create a difference in the lives of children, young people and families in the far north and across the Highlands within the Children’s Hearings Scotland system.
It relies on the voluntary involvement of around 3000 people across Scotland who are willing to give their time and commitment to serve as Children's Panel members. A number of agencies work together with the system to deliver protection, care and support.
Panel members decide on what support should be put in place and ensure that it continues to be delivered.
"No new panel member begins sitting on hearings without a thorough training being delivered beforehand," Mrs Stone explained. "For any new Caithness and Sutherland trainees, the training usually takes place in Inverness.
"The level of training provided to pre-service trainees is outstanding, delivering a comprehensive overview of the working processes within the hearing system.
"Any concerns regarding prior lack of knowledge are dispelled once the training gets under way. Lead trainers and facilitators are experienced in ensuring that all trainees receive the best grounding possible prior to sitting on hearings for the first time.
"The training comes in the form of larger plenary groups and smaller group sessions, affording many opportunities for trainees to converse and work through tasks in order to gain further insight in terms of knowledge and understanding."
She added: "If you have spare time, are interested in helping others and would like to work in the voluntary sector, giving something back to the wider community in Caithness and Sutherland, you may like to find out more about Children’s Hearings Scotland and how you can be involved in a meaningful, purposeful way."
Applications to become a Children's Panel member will be accepted until midnight on October 6 and information about next steps can be found on the Children’s Hearings Scotland website.
At local level in Caithness and Sutherland, anyone wishing further information can contact Christine Stone on 01847 821321.