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