Overview:
Ashley Rawles brings nearly 15 years of experience to the role and has taken part in more than 400 hearings.
The Children’s Convenor and Tribunal Board has appointed a new Chair, to help it provide independent strategic advice and guidance to the Children’s Tribunal Service.
Ashley Rawles brings nearly 15 years of experience to the role, a spokesperson for Health and Social Care (HSC) said.
She spent seven years a a tribunal member between 2012 and 2019, taking part in over 400 hearings, and has served as President of the Child, Youth and Community Tribunal.
Ms Rawles said she wants to work with stakeholders to maintain standards of fairness and child-centred practice.
She said: “It is an honour to take on the role of Chair and to continue supporting a system that places children and young people at its heart.
“Having worked within the tribunal for many years, I have seen first-hand the dedication of our volunteers and professionals.”
Ms Rawles said she “looked forward to working with the rest of the board, the Children’s Convenor, and the tribunal to ensure we continue to uphold the highest standards of care, fairness, and child-centred practice”.
Deputy Chair Gill Couch said Ms Rawles’s previous experience within the system makes her well-suited to her new role.
She said: “Ashley’s commitment to the welfare of children and young people is exceptional.
“Her extensive experience within the tribunal system, combined with her integrity and compassion, makes her ideally placed to lead the board.
Ms Couch said she was “delighted to continue working with her given her deep understanding of the system and her ongoing dedication to ensuring every child’s voice is heard”.