Board Member
The Convenor and Tribunal Board, the independent body that supports the Office of the Children’s Convenor and the Child Youth and Community Tribunal, is recruiting several Board Members.
The Board, which consists of up to eight members, provides leadership, direction, support and guidance to ensure the CTS delivers its collective functions effectively and efficiently. Members work closely and collaboratively with the Children’s Convenor and President, providing advice and support as required.
It is also responsible for liaising closely with Deputies and Civil Servants as part of the wider child welfare system to ensure that the Children’s Convenor, President of the Tribunal and the Child, Youth and Community Tribunal have the resources they need to carry out their duties in accordance with the Law.
Appointed by the Committee for Health & Social Care, Board Members must have knowledge and experience relevant to the functions of the System and will hold their position for an initial period of three years.
With two vacancies coming up for 2027, the System is looking for people who have experience in working with young people or the legislative framework that exists to support them, such as those with a background in education, health and social care or the law.
Chair of the Board Ashley Rawles is leading the call for new members: “This is a chance to play a meaningful role in public service and directly improve the lives of young people in our island community. We are looking for individuals who share our values and understand the challenges children face. Whether you bring background experience in health, education or law, or simply a fresh perspective and dedication to the role, we welcome your application.”
About Guernsey’s Children’s Tribunal System
The Children’s Tribunal System safeguards and promotes the welfare of vulnerable children and young people who are in need of care, protection, guidance or control in Guernsey and Alderney. Established as part of the Children (Guernsey and Alderney) Law, 2008 The Children’s Tribunal System is made up of three independent parts: The Office of the Children’s Convenor, The Child Youth and Community Tribunal (CYCT) and The Children’s Convenor and Tribunal Board.
Children or young people identified as vulnerable and who may be in need of compulsory help are referred to the Office of the Children’s Convenor, a legally qualified independent holder of public office, who investigates the case. Referrals can come from anyone, but most often come from organisations such as Law Enforcement and the Health and Social Care Services.
If the Convenor believes there may be a need for compulsory intervention to ensure the child gets the help and support that they need, a hearing of the Tribunal is organised. The Tribunal will decide whether or not to make a legal order. The child/young person and their family or carers are central participants in the hearing that makes this decision.
Cases are heard by a panel of three Tribunal members, trained volunteers appointed by the Royal Court, who, on the basis of the facts and information presented, decide what action is required in the best interests of the child. The members are required to make an informed and unbiased decision which is legally binding.
The Children’s Convenor and Tribunal are overseen by The Convenor and Tribunal Board, an independent body with strategic oversight to monitor the performance of the Convenor and President of the Tribunal and to provide them with guidance and support. The Board is also responsible for securing the resources required to enable the Children’s Convenor, the President and the Tribunal to carry out their duties in accordance with the Law.