Children’s Hearings Scotland is looking for local people to volunteer and support children and young people across the Western Isles. 

Panel Practice Advisors are part of the local volunteer Area Support Team, who are the local leadership group.

They are responsible for selecting and recommending Panel Members for appointment. 

They also regularly observe and provide feedback to Panel Members within children's hearings to recognise good practice and propose any improvements.

Their goal is to support Panel Members through feedback to ensure the strongest possible decisions are being made for infants, children and young people. 

Children’s Hearings Scotland National Convener and Chief Executive, Elliot Jackson, says: “The Children’s Panel is a really essential service in Scotland, and couldn’t operate without our volunteers who continue to place the children who attend at the very heart of their hearing.  

“We are looking for people with good assessment, observation and communication skills with a passion for quality assurance. This is a unique opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of our children and young people by influencing those making crucial decisions on their behalf.”  

Full training is provided with the aim of enhancing skills in leadership, effective communication, managing conflict and influencing and negotiating - all of which are transferable into the workplace. 

To find out more and to apply, visit the Children's Hearings Scotland website.  

If you would like an informal chat about the role, please call 01851 822613 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Children’s Hearings Scotland (CHS) is responsible for recruiting, training and supporting around 2,500 skilled volunteer Panel Members who take part in children’s hearings and make important legal decisions with and for infants, children and young people – ensuring they are at the heart of every decision made. 

The organisation also recruits, trains and supports a network of 22 volunteer-led Area Support Teams made up of around 400 volunteers. Area Support Team members provide support and guidance to Panel Members locally.