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Children's Hearings Scotland announces new panel area convener for Highland and Moray


By Tom Ramage

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New area convener George Hogg
New area convener George Hogg

Children’s Hearings Scotland has announced the appointment of George Hogg as its volunteer area convener for Highland and Moray, leading a panel community of some 150 volunteers across the area.

Area conveners lead a team of committed volunteers and implement national direction at a local level.

Key is making sure that the views of young people are heard and acted upon within their area. The convener works closely with partners, leading on national improvements and communicating with volunteer Children’s Panel members.

Volunteer panel members take part in children's hearings. Their role is to listen and make legal decisions with and for infants, children, young people and their families.

The new convener is taking on the role after serving previously as a panel member, and recognised as bringing great experience and valuable insight.

In the year to March 2020, 1,5601 children’s hearings were held locally and 4441 children and young people were supported. Although a rural area the figures by population are broadly comparable to the figures for the whole of Scotland. Child protection is not only an urban issue.

On his appointment, Mr Hogg said: “Having been a panel member locally since 2003 I am delighted to be taking on the role of area convenor.

"Our children and young people sometimes need additional support, for many different reasons. Through children’s hearings our goal is to help them so that they can achieve their full potential and the best possible outcomes.

“I am most proud that this vital service is delivered by trained and supported volunteers from across the area. People who selflessly give up their time and energy to help others.

"We recruit for new panel members annually – this is just about to start. I would encourage anyone who might be interested to go to our website to find out more.

“We are keen that the Children’s Panel be as representative as possible of Scotland’s communities. We are always happy to hear from anyone who wishes to discuss the role more, and can be contacted any time!”

Contact details and more information about the role of Children’s Panel members can be found on the CHS website at chscotland.gov.uk.


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