Can you help children out of a dark place?

Date: 9th September 2013
Category: General measures of implementation

A nationwide search is underway for 500 people to volunteer for Scotland's children's panel, to help neglected, troubled and abused children and young people living in Scotland.

The Children's Panel recruitment campaign, led by Children's Hearings Scotland, highlights how easily childhood can be lost, in a bid to attract the right type of individual to the role.

People from all walks of life are being sought to ensure the system offers the best support for the children and young people who need it most.

There are currently around 2,500 volunteer panel members in Scotland who regularly attend hearings to address the needs and behaviour of children and young people who face serious problems in their lives.

To become a Children's Panel member you don't need any special qualifications as intensive training is provided. However, panel members must be aged 18 or over and have the time to commit to the training schedule and ongoing hearing sessions.

• If you're interested in helping and would like more information on what becoming a panel member involves, visit www.childrenspanelscotland.org or call 0844 848 3407.