You can make a difference

At CHS, we recruit, train and support volunteer Panel Members who make legal decisions with and for children and young people in children’s hearings.

You may have heard of us being referred to as the Children’s Panel too.

If you are a good listener, have empathy, are trustworthy and can show compassion, volunteering for CHS may be the role for you!

9,789

children and young people referred in 2024-25

80%

of children and young people are referred on welfare grounds

21,313

children's hearings held in 12 months across 32 local authority areas

What do I need to become a Panel Member?

Take our quick quiz to find out if you can apply to be a Panel Member.

The role of a Panel Member is to listen and make legal decisions with and for infants, children and young people in Scotland.

Tell us what you think!

At CHS we are always looking at new ways to improve and the best way for us to do this, is for you to tell us!

Our latest practice guide makes sure volunteers can uphold the rights of the youngest children in hearings.

Two members of CHS's Experts by Experience group enjoyed a personal tour of Glasgow’s redesigned hearings centre.

Children's Hearings Scotland has reappointed 13 Independent Reports Writers across Scotland.