Local residents must continue to be involved in children's hearings

4.19.38pm GMT Wed 24th Feb 2010

Margaret SmithCommenting on the publication of the Children's Hearings Bill and reports that the number of children in care is at a 30 year high, Liberal Democrat spokesperson on Young People Margaret Smith said:

"We welcome the publication of the Children's Hearings Bill, including provisions to introduce consistency in training across Scotland.

"Liberal Democrats fully support Scotland's unique children's hearing system which has the protection and care of children at its heart.

"This legislation replaces a previous attempt by the Government that failed to get the support of volunteers and key partners in the system.

"It's essential that any changes to the Children's Hearings system have their backing and that the Education Committee scrutinises the detail of this Bill.

"Local residents must continue to be able to make decisions about the children in care or in trouble in their communities. They need to be given the best possible training and support to do so."