The Children's Reporter (SCRA)

The Children's Reporter works for an organisation called Scottish Children’s Reporter Administration (SCRA).

The Children's Reporter:

• decides if a child needs to go to a hearing

• collects information about what is happening in a child’s life

• explains why the hearing is taking place

The Children's Reporter helps make sure the hearing has all the information it needs and makes sure the law is followed.

Social Workers (Local Authority)

Social workers are there to help and support children and families.

They:

• work closely with you and your family

• write reports to explain what support you might need

• help carry out the decisions made at the hearing

They help make sure you get the support agreed at the hearing.

Safeguarders

A Safeguarder is someone who is asked to help when things are more complicated.

They:

• focus on what is best for you

• speak to you and other people in your life

• give advice to the Panel Members

They help make sure your best interests are always put first.

Solicitors

Sometimes children or their families have a solicitor.

A solicitor:

• explains legal things in a simple way

• helps you or your family understand your rights

• speaks for you if needed

Solicitors help make sure everything is fair.

The Courts

Most decisions are made at hearings, but sometimes a court is involved.

A court might:

• help decide if there is enough reason for a hearing

• look at appeals (if someone disagrees with a decision)

Advocacy Workers

Advocacy is about helping you speak up and make sure people listen.  

An advocacy worker can:  

• help you share your views 

• make sure adults at the hearing understand what you think 

• come to the hearing with you 

• help you choose how you want to be heard 

• help you understand the decision made at the hearing
  

Working together

All of these people work together with CHS and our Panel Members to:

• listen to children

• understand what is happening

• make decisions that help keep children safe and supported