Issues to think about before you start – training

View training similarly to continuing professional development. Think about building in time for annual reviews to reflect on processes and revisit topics discussed during induction days. New issues may arise as people become more experienced and take on more challenging involvement roles.

Be creative about access to training. Budgets for training can be limited and training that is useful to panel members might be available through local libraries, voluntary organisations, universities and higher education colleges.

How to brief and prepare new members joining an existing panel. When relationships are already established, it can be difficult for a new person to integrate into the group and start working at the same level. Involve experienced panel members in induction for new members. They can contribute by reflecting on what training they would have found helpful and providing some of the training themselves.