Local community stalwart Jon Beausire has been appointed as the Chair of The Children’s Convenor and Tribunal Board. Guernsey born and bred, Jon has a wealth of experience within the area of children’s welfare, having trained as one of the original Tribunal Members following the inception of the 2008 Children Law. During his time, he participated in and chaired many Hearings, gathering a direct understanding of the issues faced by the islands’ young people and their families.

The Convenor and Tribunal Board, part of the Children’s Tribunal System, has appointed three new members to its Board. Juliet Bousfield, Charlie Cox and Alison Rimington have all joined the Board which has oversight of the delivery of the strategic objectives for the Children’s Tribunal System. The Board is an independent body that provides the Children’s Convenor and President of the Child, Youth and Community Tribunal (the CYCT) with advice, guidance and support as and when required, to help them carry out their statutory functions, as well as securing the resources required.

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.