Rita Doyle and Ann Lee, who have both served for 30 years, and Stephen Phillips, who has served for 35 years, were thanked for their work at the annual Children’s Panel recognition evening hosted by West Dunbartonshire Council.

Another eight long-serving members were rewarded for their commitment and dedication to young people in West Dunbartonshire, while 12 new Panel members received certificates to mark their successful completion of pre-service training.

Linda Watt, a Board Member of Children’s Hearing Scotland, Councillor Hazel Sorrell, Depute Spokesperson for the Community Health and Care Partnership, and Mike Palmer, Convener of the West Dunbartonshire Area Support Team which oversees the Children’s Panel locally, were on hand to make the presentations.

Councillor Hazel Sorrell, the Council’s representative on the West Dunbartonshire Area Support Team, said: “Children’s Panel Members volunteer their time to help our most vulnerable children and young people. Their dedication to the role is unquestionable and it is wonderful to be able to thank them for all their hard work. Over the years, Panel Members have helped numerous young people through difficult periods in their life, so each and every one of them plays a very important role in our communities.” Councillor Kath Ryall, Convener for Corporate Services, said: “Without these dedicated members of the Children’s Panel, the Children’s Hearings System in West Dunbartonshire could not operate as it does. It is wonderful to be able to recognise the commitment of these long-serving Children’s Panel members, but is also pleasing to see so many new members coming on board.” Mike Palmer, Convener of the West Dunbartonshire Area Support Team, said: “We are very fortunate in West Dunbartonshire to have a number of Panel Members with particularly long service. Our area benefits greatly from their vast experience. I am delighted to acknowledge the service of Rita, Ann and Stephen.” Linda Watt, from Children’s Hearings Scotland, said: “The Children’s Hearings System relies on the support of a large number of volunteers. Panel Members and Area Support Team members give their time to a very worthwhile cause. Although their work can sometimes be demanding it is very much valued. The Children’s Hearings Scotland Board thanks all volunteers for their continued commitment to the welfare of others.” The West Dunbartonshire Area Support Team will soon be recruiting new Children’s Panel Members. Panel Members make vital decisions about vulnerable children and young people in need of help and make a real difference to their lives. You don’t need qualifications to apply, you just need to care.

If you are interested in becoming a Children’s Panel Member in West Dunbartonshire, and you live or work in the area, please contact Scott Kelly, West Dunbartonshire Council, on 01389 737220 for further information.