18 hours ago
Glasgow volunteers in children's hearings honoured by King
Mary Gordon, Neil Macleod, and Linda Davis were invited to the Royal Garden Party at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh on July 1 as guests of the King and Queen.
Ms Gordon said: "I was extremely gratified when I learned of my nomination to the King's Garden Party.
"As a volunteer, I do not expect any recognition or thanks, so it came as a huge surprise.
Read more:
Update after 999 crews including Coastguard helicopter spotted at incident
"I am a part of the community because I want to be, and if the little I do helps just one child, I'm happy."
Mr Macleod and Ms Davis serve as panel members in the Children's Hearings System, while Ms Gordon volunteers as a panel practice advisor, providing support to panel members.
Thirty-eight current and former volunteers from the Children's Hearings System in Scotland were invited to the garden party.
Children's hearings are legal meetings held when there are concerns about a child or young person's wellbeing or care.
Each hearing involves three volunteer panel members who make decisions in the best interests of the child.
More than 2,000 panel members volunteer across Scotland, taking part in over 20,000 hearings each year.
Children's Hearings Scotland (CHS) is the public body responsible for recruiting, training and supporting these volunteers.
Lynne Harrison, director of tribunal delivery at CHS, said: "I'm so pleased to see our volunteers celebrated and recognised today.
"Children's hearings take place every day across Scotland, and our panel members make difficult and important decisions in the best interests of infants, children and young people.
"In every part of Scotland we have strong communities of volunteers supporting each other to bring about positive outcomes for children and families, and it's been joyful for us to come together today and see that dedication honoured."