Chain of office.

Had the pleasure after a day of back to back meetings (discussing training, complaints, our corporate parenting plan etc) of going to Haddington.

The aim was to take part in an event in the South East Scotland AST area recognising the contribution of long service panel members (i.e. 10+ years) while also valuing everyone's service. It was also an occasion to recognise employers who support volunteers in the children's hearings system and both thank them for their help and also convey the nature of some of the decisions the panel members have to take. Panel members acquire a wide range of skills which can enhance their contribution to organisations and it was worth getting that message across. We did not ignore self employed people who devote their time to the system.

A very positive event. It was marred only by the horrendous traffic on the A1 to get there following a two car crash near Tranent. So just made it on time.

Provost Lindsay was present. His chain of office depicts the farming, fishing and mining that characterises the authority.