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Children’s Hearings Scotland (CHS) has launched its 2026 Panel Member Recruitment Campaign and is inviting people across Scotland to apply for a volunteering role that helps ensure the voices of children and young people are heard when important decisions are made about their care and wellbeing.
Applications are open until 23rd September 2026 for those interested in becoming a Panel Member within Scotland’s unique Children’s Hearings System.
The Children’s Hearings System is designed to help infants, children and young people who may need extra care, protection or support. Children’s hearings bring together children, families and professionals to consider what help may be needed, with decisions focused on the best interests of the child.
Unlike a court, a children’s hearing is led by a panel of three trained volunteers known as Panel Members. They listen to the views of children and young people, consider information from those involved in their lives and make legally binding decisions intended to support positive outcomes.
A child or young person may attend a hearing if they:
The system aims to put children first, ensure they have a voice and focus on care and support rather than blame.
Panel Members play a key role in making legal decisions with and for children and young people. Three Panel Members take part in each hearing, which may be held in person or virtually.
Volunteers are expected to commit to two hearing sessions each month, along with preparation time to read reports and other relevant information before hearings take place.
Successful applicants are appointed for a three-year period and join more than 2,300 volunteers across Scotland who contribute to the work of the Children’s Panel, helping to ensure children and young people feel safe, valued, respected and heard.
CHS provides a comprehensive pre-service training programme through its Learning Academy, ensuring no previous experience of the Children’s Hearings System is required.
Training combines online and in-person learning, helping volunteers build confidence and develop the knowledge and skills needed to undertake this important legal decision-making role.
The programme includes:
CHS recognises that Panel Members can encounter complex and sensitive issues while supporting children and families. Volunteers therefore receive ongoing guidance, training and wellbeing support throughout their time on the Children’s Panel.
Support available includes dedicated regional support teams, experienced volunteer mentors, post-hearing debriefs, reflective practice opportunities and access to a confidential wellbeing assistance programme.
The Children’s Hearings System is built around the principle that children should be listened to and involved in decisions that affect their lives.
As a Panel Member, volunteers help ensure that children and young people remain at the heart of every hearing, with decisions focused on their safety, wellbeing and future outcomes.
For those looking to make a meaningful contribution in their community, becoming a Panel Member offers an opportunity to directly support children and young people across Scotland.
Anyone interested in becoming a Panel Member can attend a virtual information session on 17th September 2026 from 12.30pm-1.15pm to learn more about the role and the application process.
Further information is available on the Children’s Hearings Scotland website, including:
