Volunteers sought for children's panel
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The children’s hearing system – which combines welfare and justice for children and young people – is looking for volunteers.
Children’s Hearings Scotland (CHS) is looking for the right people in Highland and Moray to work with children, families and professionals as a tribunal panel member – the aim of which is to identify what help children and young people need to reduce offending, protect them from harm and help them achieve their full potential.
Panel members make legally binding decisions as to whether compulsory measures of supervision are needed to address risks to children and young people’s welfare and ensure their needs are properly met.
Panel members must be representative of the community they serve. CHS volunteers have a wide range of backgrounds and experience which can add a richness and quality to hearings, while also creating the opportunity for much better insight into the issues facing children and young people who come before a hearing. Many panel members have lived experience and CHS makes sure they are encouraged and supported to participate.
Panel members undergo an extensive period of training when they are recruited, culminating in a professional development award verified by the Scottish Qualifications Authority. The training focuses on dealing with the range of complex issues, such as childhood trauma, which they will encounter in hearings.
Hearings have to promote equal treatment for all, be fair and open, and ensure that decisions are taken in the best interests of the child. The approach is always child-centred and the ethos of the hearing should allow for that open and honest discussion.
Hearings can be stressful for children and their families, and so the focus is very much on facilitating a conversation and listening to the opinions of everyone who attends.
If you would like to know more about Children's Hearings Scotland or how to volunteer as a panel member or support team member check out the website: www.chscotland.gov.uk
CHS in Highland and Moray is also looking for people who have good assessment, observation, and communication skills to join its team as a panel practice advisor.
Full training is provided, supported by a buddy, together with face to face and virtual team meetings.
Find out more info by emailing Carol Maragh at: Carol.Maragh@highland.gov.uk
