A CHILDREN'S Panel member from Central Fife has helped launch the search for new panel members.

Claire Smith, 31, has spoken of how rewarding the unique volunteering role can be, as someone who has been a panel member for three years.

The national Children’s Panel, Scotland’s largest lay tribunal, improves outcomes for vulnerable children and young people who are in need of care and protection or who have offended.

Figures highlight that, on average, over the last three years, a quarter of the total applications received (26 per cent) were from males – a figure Children’s Hearings Scotland is keen to increase in 2017 to ensure each panel continues to have the right representation.

Information events will be held on Thursday and September 20 at Fife House, Glenrothes, at 7pm for those who want to meet existing panel members and find out more about the role.

Claire applied to become a panel member after hearing a radio advert appealing for applicants.

Claire said: “I have always wanted to do some kind of voluntary work to support children in the local area. "The Children’s Panel gives me the opportunity to do something worthwhile that also has a degree of flexibility to fit around my family life.

Claire added: “Being a panel member really opens your eyes to what’s happening to children and families across the country.

"When you see a positive change in a child’s life thanks to the decision we’ve made it is so rewarding.

“I would tell anyone who was considering applying to go for it. It can be time consuming and it is a big commitment but if you are willing to put in the effort it is worth it.

"The training and support provided is fantastic and the satisfaction you get from knowing you have helped a child who may not have had the best start in life makes the role worthwhile.”

There are currently over 2,500 volunteer panel members across Scotland, however, new recruits from a range of backgrounds are needed each year to ensure the system continues to offer the best support.

This year, Children’s Hearings Scotland is also keen to hear from those interested in supporting the work of the panel through becoming a volunteer Area Support Team member.

Boyd McAdam, National Convener and Chief Executive of Children’s Hearings Scotland, said: “The motivations of our panel volunteers are all different.

"For some, it is the desire to give something back. For others, it’s about being able to help a child or young person who is facing challenges in their life, or about making a valuable contribution to their community.

“What unites our volunteers is their genuine compassion and dedication. We need people from all backgrounds to make sure we continue to help change the lives of those children and young people who attend children’s hearings for the better".

Applicants need to be 18 or over. The deadline for applications is September 26. To find out more about becoming a panel member, or to apply online visit www.childrenspanelscotland.org.