Proposals to reform the Children's Hearings system have been published today (Thursday) by the Scottish Government, and include plans to create a single national body to bring together the work of the Children's Reporter service, the delivery and administration of Children's Hearings, and the recruitment and training given to panel members.

The government also claim that it aims to assist the work of safeguarders, who provide children's hearings and courts with an independent assessment of what action is needed to ensure the best interests of a child.

"The creation of the single national body will also allow us to reduce bureaucracy in the system while ensuring services continue to be delivered locally and with great consistency in decision-making for the benefit of everyone involved." said Minister for Children and Early Years, Adam Ingram.

Douglas Bulloch, Chairman of the Scottish Children's Reporter Administration said he welcomed the publication of the consultation.

"SCRA looks forward to reviewing the proposals and contributing to the consultation process in support of the Government's view that the Hearings System is the best way of providing assistance and support to Scotland's vulnerable children and their families," he added.