Thirty-two current and former volunteers who have served at children’s hearings across Scotland were guests of the King and Queen at the Royal Garden Party in Edinburgh on 2 July.

The volunteers were invited to the Palace of Holyroodhouse in recognition of their services to infants, children and young people. In addition to King Charles and Queen Camilla, the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, Prince Edward and Sophie, were also present.

Volunteers from across Scotland

Representatives of the Panel Community attended from seven of our nine regions across Scotland, from Eilean Siar to Ayrshire. 

Pat Hastings, former Area Convener in Edinburgh, said: 'Wow, what an honour to be recognised and receive an invite. I’m feeling proud.'

Rowan Findlay, Panel Practice Adviser in North Strathclyde, said: 'This honour not only recognises my personal commitment but also highlights the invaluable work that our organisation does in ensuring infants, children and young people are cared for and protected.'

'Very special occasion'

Liz Walker, Panel Member in Fife, said: 'Being able to attend such a very special occasion representing Children’s Hearings Scotland along with my husband is really exciting and gives me a sense that what I do is appreciated, recognised and making a difference.'

Andy Aitken, Panel Practice Adviser in Glasgow, said: 'My attendance at the Royal Garden Party is not just an honour and recognition for me, but for everyone involved in the work of Children’s Hearings Scotland in our great city of Glasgow.'

Handshake 'icing on the cake'

Sarah Young, Panel Member in the Central region and former Area Convener, reports back that the King spoke to her and shook her hand, which she says was 'the icing on the cake'. She says that the next day, 'I went into hearings determined to do all I can to continue to make effective decisions and, improve my contribution to our amazing system of care and justice for children and young people.'

Incredibly proud

'I’m incredibly proud of our volunteers who are making important decisions in the best interests of infants, children and young people across Scotland.

'I’m delighted to see them celebrated and honoured in this way, recognising the positive outcomes their service brings for so many people.'

– Elliot Jackson, National Convener and Chief Executive.

Become a volunteer

For anyone interested in joining our volunteer community, our annual recruitment campaign takes place in September, and in the meantime you can learn more and register your interest on the CHS wesbsite.

Volunteers from the Ayrshire region

Volunteers from the Central region

Volunteers form the Glasgow region

Volunteers from the Highland, Moray & Eilean Siar region

Volunteers from the South East region

Volunteers from the Tayside & Fife region