PRESS RELEASE

September 10th, 2008

Encouragement for children’s panel workers

Greenock and Inverclyde MSP Duncan McNeil has praised the area’s children’s panel workers in Parliament.

During the debate on Getting It Right For Every Child at holyrood, Mr McNeil congratulated the work of Scotland’s 2,800 volunteers who serve in the children’s hearing system.

And he singled out the work of those in his own constituency of Inverclyde as an example of how rewarding a role it can be.

Mr McNeil is now encouraging people to consider getting involved and make a difference to lives of young people.

He also plans to pay a visit to the local volunteers who serve on the children’s panel to see for himself the good work they do.

Mr McNeil said: “The volunteers who give up their time to serve on these panels do a wonderful job and make a real difference in the lives of our youngsters.

“So I was happy to use the speech in Parliament as an opportunity to thank them – without their selfless efforts on behalf of troubled youngsters our communities would be in a far worse situation.

“I know they are currently recruiting volunteers and anyone who thinks they have something to offer should get in touch with local organisers.

“From speaking to them in the past, I am well aware of what they get out of it and it is a very worthwhile cause.”

Anyone who is over 18 and can spare two half days on a monthly basis is eligible to apply. More information can be found by phoning 01475 712111 or visiting www.inverclyde.gov.uk.

ENDS