Residents are being urged to help vulnerable children and young people enjoy a brighter future – by joining the Children’s Panel.

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 opened last Friday, August 17.

The initiative is supported by North, South, and East Ayrshire Councils and this year’s recruitment campaign will encourage potential members to ‘Be a Force for Good’.

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

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.

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

Councillor John Sweeney, representative on the Ayrshire Area Support Team, said: “The people who make up the Children’s Panel give up their time and efforts for the benefit of children and young people in need of care and support.

“The only things that volunteers need is a commitment to make a big difference to the lives of children and young people in need of care and support, and be willing to devote time. Any training required is provided for this rewarding work.”

Applications to join the Children’s Panel are being accepted to Monday, September 24.

If you would like to know more about the role, please come along to the information evening which will be held on Tuesday, September 11, in Greenwood Conference Centre, Dreghorn, Irvine, from 7pm-9pm.

For details call 01294 324155/ 324162 or visit www.childrens panelscotland.org