Long-serving members of West Dunbartonshire’s Children’s Panel have been rewarded for their commitment to children and young people at a special recognition event.
The dedicated members, who had served a combined total of 71 years on the Children’s Panel, were each presented with a certificate and long service gift.
Along with recognising the long service of existing members, the Panel welcomed 21 new volunteers who successfully completed their pre-service training.
Councillor Karen Conaghan, chair of educational services and the council’s representative on the West Dunbartonshire Area Support Team, said: “It is right and appropriate for us to recognise the commitment of members of the Children’s Panel and all they do to help vulnerable children and families in West Dunbartonshire.
“These volunteers have willingly spent their free time helping others and this small gesture is our way of thanking every one of the volunteers for their commitment to this service.
“The hearing system can and does make a positive difference for many children and it is heartening to see so many new members who will help and support local children.”
Judy Wilson, area convener of the West Dunbartonshire Area Support Team, added: “I would like to sincerely thank all the long service members who have been recognised for their commitment and continued dedication to improving lives of local infants, children, and young people.
“The volunteers thoroughly deserve the recognition for the part they have played in making a real difference to children and families going through difficult times.
"I would also like to welcome the new intake of panel members and thank them for pledging their time to help local families.”
Volunteers do not require special qualifications to sit on the Children’s Hearing as full training will be provided.
Anyone interested in becoming a Children’s Panel member can visit Children's Hearings Scotland's website HERE or contact Scott Kelly at the Council on 07972147274 or email scott.kelly@chscotland.scot.
List of awards:
New members
Susan Burns
Annmarie Carson
Shona Forsyth
Oona Gartshore
Jane Greene
Nicole Hampson
Niamh Hughes
Heather Johnson
Billy McClung
Sarah-Jane McDermott
Paul McGowan
John McInally
Lisa McKain
Samantha Naylor
Robyn Proctor
Elaine Reid
Rachel Robb
Karen Speirs
Julie Stevenson
Marian Thackrey
Jodie Woods
Panel Members with 5 Years’ Service
Kirsty Campbell
Michael Campbell
Billy Crowe
David Hughes
Graham Jefferies
Frank McNiff
Natalie McMillan
Panel Members with 10 Years’ Service
Barbara Oattes
Elma Parkins
Panel Member with 15 Years’ Service
Elizabeth McKerrall
Panel Member with 20 Years’ Service
Janet Crabtree
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