A CHILDREN'S Hearing Panel Volunteer has been praised for her commitment and enthusiasm to the system.

Fern Gillon, 24, is a full-time student, and has been a member of the Children’s Panel for just over a year. She applied to become a panel member because she wanted to give back to her local community.

Speaking about her experience Fern said: “I have always been aware of the Children’s Hearings System and wanted to help. I knew it was a big responsibility but I thought I had something to offer.

“Being a panel member really opens your eyes. You don’t realise that others in the area are living very different lives. You quickly realise the importance of the decisions made and how it directly affects people’s lives.

“It can be time consuming and emotionally draining but when you know that you have made the right decision for a child, it is a really rewarding and unique experience.”

Volunteers supporting the Children’s Hearings System in Ayrshire have been praised for their commitment, as national Volunteers’ Week Scotland gets underway.

In Ayrshire, around 206 Children’s Panel and Area Support Team members give their time to make a vital contribution to the lives of troubled and vulnerable children and young people, and Boyd McAdam, the National Convener of Children’s Hearings Scotland added his thanks for all they do.

The recognition of their commitment comes ahead of this year’s recruitment drive, where over 500 new Children’s Panel members of all ages and backgrounds will be sought to ensure the system continues to offer the best possible support.

Most recent figures highlight that across Scotland 15,329 children and young people were referred to the Scottish Children’s Reporter Administration in 2015/16, resulting in 34,896 Children’s Hearings taking place.

The system, which deals with troubled or at risk children and young people who are in need of care or who have offended, relies on the generosity, skills and commitment of those who volunteer their time – like Fern.