Clackmannanshire, Falkirk and Stirling Councils' Children's Panels
Since 15 April 1971 Children’s Hearings have been making decisions about children who need care, guidance, control or protection. The Children’s Panel is recognised as a statutory tribunal under the Tribunal and Enquiries Act 1992.
The Children’s Panel comprises volunteer members of the public appointed by the Scottish Ministers to hear cases involving children referred to the Children’s Hearing system. A Children’s Hearing consists of three Panel Members, with both genders represented at each hearing.
Annual recruitment campaign
The Joint Children’s Panel Advisory Committee (JCPAC) is responsible for the recruitment, selection and monitoring of Children’s Panel Members for Clackmannanshire, Falkirk and Stirling and is administered by Falkirk Council’s Law & Administration Services. Every autumn, the JCPAC recruits new Panel Members from the three local areas.
No special qualifications are required – just common sense, an ability to listen, and to have the best interests of the child in mind. Some experience of performance monitoring and interviewing techniques, together with a knowledge of the Children's Hearing System would be an advantage.
The Panel aims to represent a cross-section of the local community. We would welcome applications from individuals from all sections of society and particularly those from under-represented groups who believe they could contribute to rge work of the Children's Hearings system.
Applicants will normally be considered for the Panel in the area in which they live. It may, however, be possible to consider applicants for the Panel in the area in which they work.
Training
A full training programme is provided, with all aspects of the system covered, prior to Panel Member appointments being confirmed by the Scottish Ministers.
You will be given opportunities for further personal development during your period of service, which initially will be for three years.
In addition, there are regular meetings and ongoing local training, which provide the opportunity to meet colleagues and exchange views and ideas, as well as learn from a variety of speakers and training providers. The standard of training is exceptionally high, providing life skills of benefit outwith the hearing system.
Time commitment
Being a Panel Member can sometimes be challenging, however it is extremely rewarding. A reasonable amount of time committed to Panel duties is expected – not always easy when you have a family and a job, but it can be done.
Members sit on hearings once a month or so. Hearings are generally held in the morning or afternoon, so daytime availability is essential. Preparatory time in advance of Hearings is essential, and you will be required to attend ongoing training, usually held in the evening and occasionally weekends.
Absence from employment
If you work, it is essential you speak to your employer before applying to become a member of the Children’s Panel. Although Section 50 of the Employment Rights Act provides the right to reasonable time off to undertake Panel duties, you should discuss possible membership and its implications with your employer.
Expenses
Panel Members are voluntary, therefore you receive no remuneration, however, you are entitled to claim for out of pocket expenses e.g. travel expenses, child care and loss of earnings, incurred whilst undertaking Children’s Panel duties.
Further information and how to apply
If you are interested and would like to find out more about the work of the JCPAC and how to apply, please contact the Children's Panel Administration using the details given in the Contact Us panel.