South Ayrshire Children’s Panel is looking for caring adults to work on behalf of the community to make decisions about children who need care and protection, or who have committed offences within the community.

A national recruitment campaign is being run across Scotland to encourage people from all walks of life, who have a few hours to spare each week and would like to help vulnerable children living within South Ayrshire, to become members of the Children’s Hearing System.

Speaking about the campaign the Leader of South Ayrshire Council, Councillor Andy Hill said: “South Ayrshire Children’s Panel has a very important role to play in our community.

“Members of the Panel make important decisions about children, who through no fault of their own may be in need of care and protection, and about children who have offended within the community.

“The welfare of children is paramount, and every decision that Panel Members take is for the benefit of the child.

“Anyone over 18 years of age, with a genuine interest in the welfare of children, can apply to become a Panel Member. Attracting people from all walks of life is very important, so applicants require no qualifications, as successful applicants will receive appropriate training.”

In South Ayrshire special information evenings have been arranged, to which interested members of the public are invited to go along and find out more about what being a member of the Children’s Hearing System entails. Information will be available from existing Panel members, and others associated with the running of the Children’s Hearing System in South Ayrshire, and attendees will be able to ask questions about the system and find out exactly what is required of Panel members.

The information evenings will take place on:

• Monday 10 October 2005 7 pm County Hall, County Buildings, Wellington Square, Ayr.
  
• Wednesday 12 October 2005 7pm Conference Suite, Carrick Buildings, Henrietta Street, Girvan.

The Children’s Hearing system, established in 1971, is a form of Juvenile Justice and Child Protection, which is unique to Scotland.

Panel members come from all sections of the community and represent most age groups that ensure a balanced Panel.

Panel Members make informed decisions in the best interests of children after discussing each individual case along with the child, parents/guardian and interested professionals.

Anyone who would like further information about becoming a Panel Member can contact staff on telephone number 01292 612462 and they will be happy to provide information.

September 2005