News / Volunteers needed for Children’s Panel
PEOPLE in Shetland who have a passion for the welfare of young people are being urgently encouraged to consider volunteering for the Children’s Panel.
Children’s Hearings Scotland is currently looking for 560 new panel members across the country – and this includes Shetland.
The panel is an independent lay tribunal that makes important decisions about vulnerable children.
With applications for this year’s new recruits needing to be returned by 30 September, Children’s Hearings Scotland is issuing an urgent plea for more people to come forward to volunteer.
Children’s Hearings Scotland’s national convener and chief executive Boyd McAdam said that while the role can be “challenging”, it is also “hugely rewarding and can turn around the life of a child” who has been neglected or abused.
“With the deadline fast approaching, we’re especially keen to hear from any men who have empathy towards the situations some children and young people in Scotland face,” he added.
“If you bring compassion and commitment, we’ll provide the training and support. Please consider applying before the deadline if you think you have what it takes.”
Twenty six year old Shetland man Luke Suddaby has been a member of the panel for over a year and he is also encouraging locals to apply.
“There’s a lot to learn but you have loads of support throughout and being in Shetland means you get to know the other panel members which really helps,” he said.
“You develop your decision-making skills and ability to react to difficult situations on the spot which helps you grow in confidence within the role. I’d encourage anyone thinking about joining to go for it.”
Applicants must be aged 18 or over, and no qualifications are needed. For more information on how to apply, visit: www.childrenspanelscotland.org
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