PEOPLE across Ayrshire are being urged to do something extraordinary to help vulnerable children and young people enjoy a brighter future.

The Children’s Hearing System (CHS) is appealing for men and women to become members of the Children’s Panel as part of its recruitment drive, which opens on Monday, August 15.

The initiative is supported by North, South, and East Ayrshire Councils.

Children’s Panel members make vital decisions to help vulnerable children and young people in need of care and protection or who have offended.

Councillor Anthea Dickson, North Ayrshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care, said: “I know that there will be many people who would like to offer their services to the Children’s Panel but perhaps feel that they lack the experience or qualifications – but I would like to reassure them that this isn’t the case.

“The only things that volunteers need is the willingness to make a huge difference to the lives of children and young people in need of care and support, and be willing to commit time to do so. No formal qualifications are needed and any training required is provided for this rewarding work.

“Every year, more people are needed to continue the good work of the Children’s Panel. I would encourage anyone who feels they have what it takes to make a difference to the life of a young person, to apply.”

Those applying for the role do not need any specific qualifications but must be over 18 and either live, or work, in the Ayrshire area.

Regardless of their background, panel members should be independent thinkers, good listeners and communicators, have great negotiating skills, and the ability to keep a level head in difficult situations.

All panel members will receive extensive support to help them make potentially life-changing decisions in the lives of a child or young person.

Julie McGarry, Administration Manager and East Ayrshire Council representative on the Ayrshire Children’s Panel, said: “Panel members play an important role in shaping the lives of vulnerable children and young people in Ayrshire. It can be a very rewarding and fulfilling experience for all concerned and I would urge all interested parties to get in touch.”

Councillor Rita Miller, South Ayrshire Council’s Health and Social Care Portfolio Holder, added: “The young people supported by the Children’s Panel need dedicated help, and anyone choosing to get involved will help to change lives for the better.

“While there should be no doubt that the role will be challenging, the potentially positive outcomes should make the decision an easy one to make.

“Having seen a broad variety of people coming forward in the past, I know that this year’s volunteers will have a rewarding experience once they take the decision to get involved.”

Call 01294 324155/ 324162 or visit www.childrenspanelscotland.org for more details.