Makar adds rhyming voice to Children’s Panel appeal

Scotland’s national poet, Makar Liz Lochhead, today unveiled a new poem, written through the eyes of a troubled child, to help launch this year’s call for new recruits to Scotland’s Children’s Panel.

The acclaimed poet has penned Trouble Is Not My Middle Name to appeal to the 600 volunteers needed to ensure the system offers the best support to neglected, troubled and abused children across Scotland.

It is hoped the poem, which explores the feelings of a child in despair, will help attract the right type of individual, willing to make the commitment to help change the life of a vulnerable child in their area.

A bench, inscribed with the poem, will be unveiled at Edinburgh’s Botanic Garden by Minister for Children and Young People Aileen Campbell and current panel member Heather Scott, 23, to launch the month-long drive.

Ms Lochhead said: “I was delighted to be invited to write this poem. I’ve known of the system for many years and having met many panel members I know of the personal benefits that those who volunteer gain as well as helping children in trouble. I hope that this poem will attract new volunteers.”