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Panel Member (Scottish Borders)

  • VO101425

Description

Children’s Hearings Scotland are seeking volunteers in your area to help children develop and thrive. Volunteer as a Panel Member in the Scottish Borders and make a difference in your community.

Three Panel Members take part in each children's hearing, which can be held in person or virtually.
The role of a Panel Member is to listen and make legal decisions with and for infants, children and young people. They are there to ensure that the young person is at the heart of every decision taken – because every decision, no matter how big or small, has an impact.
We offer a comprehensive training package that will equip you with the skills and knowledge to fulfil this important role. You can find out more about the learning and training dates on the training page on our website.
Panel Members are appointed for a three-year period.

Organisation aims and objectives

Our vision is of a Children's Hearings system where everyone works together, making sure that all children and young people are heard, respected, valued, cared for and protected. Our mission is to improve outcomes and experiences for children and young people in Scotland who may be at risk. We will do this by supporting the Children's Panel, working with partners and using our influence to drive improvements across the Children's Hearings system.

Restrictions

There may be conflicts of interest for certain cases, but this is not a barrier to being involved, you would just be assigned another hearing.
Experience required: You’ll be enthusiastic and committed to securing the rights of children and young people; able to lead and be part of teams; a strong communicator. You’ll also be able to demonstrate a strong commitment to and understanding of the ethos, values and principles of the children's hearings system.
Travel details: Selkirk Hearing Centre – but also online over Teams.
Minimum age: 18

Support

Expenses paid: Yes
Expenses details: Volunteers should not be out of pocket in order to volunteer with us. Therefore travel costs will be re-imbursed.
Training details: Operated in partnership with West Lothian College, our Children’s Hearings Scotland Learning Academy provides a range of online and face-to-face learning and development opportunities that ensure our Panel Members are well trained to undertake their roles. Having the right skills, knowledge and values is a key part of both making effective decisions for infants, children and young people, and of supporting the Panel Members who make those decisions. We encourage our volunteers and staff members to undergo continuous training and development to make sure they are up to speed on the latest legislation and practice.

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