"As the Minister responsible for the Children’s Hearings system, I would like to welcome you to the Children’s Hearings website. This provides information on Scotland’s distinctive system of care and justice for its children and young people.

The Scottish Government wants to give every child the best possible start in life and it is our duty, along with our partners, to safeguard the needs of the most vulnerable and troubled children and young people in Scotland. The welfare of the child is at the heart of the system. The website contains background information on Children's Panels and you will learn what actually happens in a Hearing.

We have committed to strengthening the Children's Hearings system. We want to retain its fundamental principles while developing and improving the current system. This will ensure it has the appropriate resources to do the best possible job in protecting children and addressing issues in our communities.

The system depends on volunteers and professionals working together to make a difference in the life of a child at risk or in trouble. If you would like to volunteer, either as a panel member or a member of the Children's Panel Advisory Committee, there are details on the website about what is involved. All volunteers are carefully prepared for their task through training.

For employers, the site offers a useful overview of the benefits they can expect in return for their support of employees who are either current or potential panel members. Panel members are highly trained, skilled and motivated individuals. They are also a great asset to any employer who values commitment and integrity, leadership and interpersonal skills.

If you have any comments or suggestions on this website, then please feel free to e-mail them to our mailbox.

Thank you for visiting our site, I hope you find it both interesting and informative."

Adam Ingram MSP
Minister for Children and Early Years