What is a Children’s Hearing?

A Children’s Hearing is a meeting where people come together to make sure a baby, child or young person is:

• safe

• listened to

• cared for

It is different from a court.

In Scotland, this is part of how we protect our infants, children and young people attending hearings. There is a group of three trained volunteers called Panel Members. They meet with the child and the people who care for them and are involved in their lives.

What happens at a hearing?

At a hearing:

• people talk about what is happening your life

• you can share their thoughts, feelings, and what matters to them

• the Panel Members listen and decide what help or support you might need

The most important thing is making the best decision for and with you - this is a legally binding decision.

Why might I go to a hearing?

You might go to a hearing if:

• you need care or protection

• you are not able to go to school all the time

• you have been involved in behaviour that could get you into trouble

A hearing is there to help, not to punish.

What does CHS do?

CHS (Children’s Hearings Scotland) is part of the Children’s Hearings System.

CHS:

• recruits and trains the people who volunteer to be Panel Members

• supports Panel Members to make good decisions

• makes sure every hearing is fair and focused on the child

CHS helps make sure children feel safe, respected, and heard.

CHS makes sure the Panel Members in the hearing are trained to listen and make decisions that help children.

Why is this system important?

The Children’s Hearings System is important because:

• it puts children first

• it helps children have a voice

• it focuses on care and support, not blame