The organisation is part of the Children’s Hearings Scotland system and aims to improve outcomes for troubled or at risk children and young people who are in need of care or who have offended.

Across Scotland 560 new members are needed in addition to the 2,500 people who currently serve.

Children’s Hearings Scotland, the body responsible for the recruitment, training and support of panel members, urged those who have compassion, the ability to listen and an interest in the welfare of children and young people within their community to apply before the September 30 deadline.

Men in particular are being urged to come forward, to ensure hearings have the right representation as law requires both men and women to sit on each hearing.

Boyd McAdam, national convener and chief executive, Children’s Hearings Scotland, said: “There is no such thing as an ideal panel member. We need a mix of ages from 18 upwards, and from a variety of backgrounds. We also need a mix of both males and females to ensure that the national Children’s Panel has a variety of experiences and perspectives. If you think you have what it takes, then I’d encourage you to apply.” An information evening will be held on Wednesday, September 9 at 7pm in Committee Room 3, First Floor Council Offices, Garshake Road, Dumbarton.

To find out more about becoming a panel member, visit www.childrenspanelscotland.org.