Listen
River City kids call for more children's panel volunteers
20/08/2007
Two of Scotland's top young actors today called for more adults to get involved in children's panels and help young people who are neglected and abused.
River City stars Sean Brown and Jayd Johnson, who play Paul and Nicki in the show, added their voices to this year's call for more children's panel volunteers.
They met today with Children and Early Years Minister Adam Ingram to launch the children's panel recruitment drive.
The teenagers said that volunteers have the chance to help young people who may be having a hard time - something their characters can identify with.
Sean said:
"More panel members are needed to help improve the lives of children in Scotland. My character Paul could straighten his life out and be happier with some help. The trauma Paul has experienced is causing him to rebel but it's really just a cry for help."
Jayd said:
"Too many children in Scotland are being abused and neglected by the people who are supposed to love and look after them. My character Nicki has been neglected by the people closest to her and it's painful enough acting out these storylines never mind knowing there are children out there suffering for real."
Mr Ingram said:
"Children's panels make a massive difference to young people's lives, supporting them through difficult times, behaviour and circumstances - including children who have been abused, neglected or even committed a crime. They depend on committed volunteers who will listen to young people's problems and find ways to help.
"We want people from all walks of life to consider signing up for their local panel. No special qualifications are necessary and all your life experience counts. At the moment, there are panel members who come from all walks of life and of all ages.
"We need people again this year to get involved with children's panels and help give Scotland's children a brighter future.
"If you are over 18, can spare a few hours a week and want to help - you can. Just call the hotline on 0845 601 2770, text HEAR1 to 61611 or go to www.infoscotland.com/childrenshearings and sign up for your local panel today."
Background:
The three week recruitment campaign for the children's panel will include radio and print advertisements. Around 550 volunteers are needed across Scotland.
The children's hearings system is unique to Scotland and was established in 1971 to address the needs and behaviour of children and young people who face serious problems in their lives. These problems can include, for example, a child being abused, a child failing to attend school, the child's parents having difficulty looking after them or a child committing an offence.
A children's hearing is a lay tribunal of three panel members. The child, parents/carers and relevant professionals all normally attend the hearing and take part in the discussion. The children's hearing considers and makes decisions on the needs of the child or young person before them. The "needs" of the child include addressing any "deeds".
During 2005 - 2006, over 53,000 children were referred to the Children's Reporter. Only a small percentage of these cases go on to a Children's Hearing.