Children’s Hearing System Flashcards
Structure of the Childrens Hearing System
Referral, hearing, outcome
Structure: referral
When someone has a concern about a child, they make a referral to the system. Police may refer a child if they have committed a crime (to support the child)
Structure example: referral
In 2022-23, 2145 referrals were made to the hearing system in Edinburgh
Structure: hearing
If a reporter believes the child needs support, they create a panel of volunteers for the child to meet. Informal setting.
Structure example: hearing
795 hearings were held in Edinburgh in 2022-23
Structure: outcome
After a panel is held, members will decide the best course of action for the child. Could be supervising or removing
Structure example: outcome
In 2022-23, the CHS issued 135 Compulsory Supervision Orders in Edinburgh
Powers of the Childrens Hearing System
Have a child supervised in their home, remove a child from their home, record a criminal conviction and refer to outside agencies
Power: Have a child supervised in their home
The child can still live their day-to-day life but a social worker would visit to supervise for their protection
Power example: Have a child supervised in their home
In 2022-23, the CHS issued 135 compulsory supervision orders in Edinburgh
Power: Remove a child from their home
If necessary, the CHS issues an order for a child to be removed from their home, only used in extreme cases where the child is facing abuse or neglect
Power example: Remove a child from their home
In 2022-23, the CHS issued 41 Child Protection Orders in Edinburgh
Power: Record a criminal conviction and refer to outside agencies
Only used when the panel decides tat the event is serious enough to warrant a formal record of conviction, they refer the young person to outside agencies such as social services
Power example: Record a criminal conviction and refer to outside agencies
In Edinburgh, the CHS refers young people to “Edinburgh EH1” who support young people who have offended or have substance abuse issues
Roles of the Childrens Hearing Systems
Have a reporter investigate any referrals, organise a panel, support a child who has been referred and act in their best interests
Role: Have a reporter investigate any referrals
Reports gather evidence and statements to decide if a panel should be held, also considers if this is in the best interest of the child
Role example: Have a reporter investigate any referrals
According to the system, 75% of all referrals come from the police
Role: Organise a panel
If a reporter decides that a panel should be held, they contact members such as family and teachers
Role example: organise a panel
A panel usually consists of three volunteers and teachers or social workers and family who should be present
Role: support a child who has been referred and act in their best interests
The panel doesn’t decide whether a young person is guilty of a crime, they support the best interests of the child and what keeps them safe and happy
Role example: support a child who has been referred and act in their best interests
The meetings do not happen in court, rather a more supportive environment like a school or a community centre
