Following the successful secondment of a Children’s Reporter from the Scottish Children’s Reporter Administration last year, we have continued to develop our strong links with Scotland and will be offering another secondment opportunity this summer. Liz Ann Miller took up the role last year, bringing her knowledge and skills to the Bailiwick to support the team. She reflects on her experiences of the island ahead of this year’s appointment.

The Convenor and Tribunal Board is looking to recruit several Board Members to fill vacancies that will arise during 2024. The Convenor and Tribunal Board is the independent body that supports the Office of the Children’s Convenor and the Child Youth and Community Tribunal (CYCT). It consists of up to eight members, one of whom holds the position of Chair.

The States of Guernsey and the Islands Safeguarding Children Partnership are once again hosting its Level 3 Safeguarding Children & Young People, with a half day course on The Role of the Children's Convenor and Child Youth and Community Tribunal in 2024. This course provides an understanding of the role of the Children’s Convenor and Child, Youth and Community Tribunal.

Alderney’s Policy & Finance Committee (PFC) recently invited Children’s Convenor Karen Brady to discuss positive outcomes following the recent review of the Children’s Law. While in Alderney, Karen met with a range of individuals who work with children and young people. Karen hopes to extend this to include the Island Medical Centre and other relevant agencies in future visits.

The Child, Youth and Community Tribunal plays an extremely important role in the lives of many children and young people across the Bailiwick. With 40 Tribunal Members making decisions about children, young people and their families, President of the Tribunal, Ashley Rawles, explains how this part of the Children’s Tribunal System is continually reviewed to ensure the best decisions are made and standards maintained.

Language is more than just a collection of words; it is something that connects us to each other, and we often underestimate its impact. In our latest blog, Children’s Convenor Karen Brady discusses why the language we use in The Children’s Tribunal System is important and why we are working hard at using language that cares.