Children's hearings to get single national body

Reporter system to combine with administration and training of children's panel members

News, 18 January 2008

Scottish ministers have announced plans to combine the bodies responsible for children's panels and the children's hearing reporters into a single national organisation.

By bringing together the work of the children's reporter service, the delivery and administration of children's hearings, and the recruitment, training and support provided to panel members, the government aims to provide a more consistent service and better delivery across the country.

Announcing the proposals, Adam Ingram, Minister for Children and Early Years, said the government would work closely with stakeholders to develop detailed proposals on which to consult more widely, and would take the necessary steps, including bringing forward any legislative proposals, to give effect to these.

He emphasised that local delivery, links with local communities and the role of volunteer panel members would all be preserved.

"By incorporating the different bodies into a single body with a coherent supporting model geared to deliver locally but consistently across Scotland, we can re-focus on the individuals who deliver the hearings system and provide more consistency in decision making, clearer leadership and better support for everyone involved. That has to be good news for our most vulnerable children."

Douglas Bulloch, chair of the Scottish Children's Reporter Administration, said: "SCRA is committed to the unique approach of the children's hearings ystem to care and justice for children, and welcomes this announcement of the government's intention to further strengthen the system."

Gavin McGregor, chair of the Children's Panel Advisory Group, and Gerard McEneany, chair of the Children's Panel Chairman's Group, also welcomed the move.