What you'll do as Panel Member
The role of a Panel Member is to listen and make legal decisions with and for infants, children and young people.
Panel Members 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.
Three Panel Members take part in each children's hearing, which can be held in person or virtually. Panel Members are expected to commit to two hearing sessions a month. This will also include preparing for each hearing which will include reading reports (eg from social work, education etc).
We offer a comprehensive training package that will equip you with the skills and knowledge to fulfil this important role.
Panel Members are appointed for a three-year period. Throughout your time on the Children’s Panel you will have access to wellbeing support which covers the emotional and practical means to confidently sit as a Panel Member.
We already have around 2,300 amazing people who volunteer to be part of the Children’s Hearings Scotland community, otherwise known as the Children’s Panel. Our volunteers make sure that all Scotland’s infants, children and young people feel safe, loved, valued and respected.
