What to expect at your first children's hearing-
Children & Young People

As a young person, going to a Children's Hearing for the first time is just like anything new - you don't know what to expect. But remember it is your hearing and the adults present are there to listen to you. Here are some questions and answers which will tell you a little more about your hearing, and help you on the day.

Where does the hearing take place?

In Edinburgh there is a special Children's Hearing Centre at 1 Fountainhall Road in the Newington area. It is also the Edinburgh office of the Scottish Children's Reporter Administration. If you do not have transport someone may be able to help you to the Centre, or if you use public transport you can get your fares money back. LRT bus routes 42 and 46 stop close the hearings Centre. Many other bus services stop one block away at Minto Street. {click here to view map}

What happens at the hearing?

You will hear the grounds for referral read out. You and your mum, dad or other person looking after you will be asked if you accept the grounds. If so, the hearing will discuss what problems there are and reach a decision in your best interests. If not, the matter will go to the Sheriff Court to be established.

Who will be at the hearing?

The hearing takes place in private but there will be some important people there - YOU - Panel members at the hearing will want to hear what want to say and you must turn up on the day. There is no need to be anxious, but if you wish you can bring a friend or someone else you know along with you. You may like to have advice or help from a solicitor; Legal Aid may be available to provide advice and assistance before the hearing.

Your Mum or Dad - or whoever is looking after you at the time of your hearing also has a right to be there.

The Children's Reporter - this is the official who decided that the hearing should take place.

The panel members on the hearing - These are three specially trained people who will make the decision about what is in your best interests. They are ordinary men and women from all backgrounds who are interested in children and listening to what they have to say. You may like to write the panel members a short note about how you feel and this can be given to the Reporter when you arrive.

Safeguarder - This is an independent person who helps the hearing to decide what is best for you. Social Workers, Teachers and Health Visitors may come to hearings - they are people who may have been or are still involved in your life and want to help you with your future.

A hearing usually lasts about 30-45 minutes, but will take as much or as little time as is needed to decided what is best for you.

What can the hearing do?

If the hearing decides that you are in need of help and support they may decide to put you under a Supervision Requirement. In most cases you will be able to stay at home although you will have to meet with your Social worker and co-operate in a work plan. You can appeal against the hearing's decision which is done at the Sheriff Court. Legal aid may be available for representation at that appeal.

And finally….. Do not forget that the Children's Hearing System is about you and protecting your future. It gives you a real chance to have a say about what happens in your life - take that chance!