(1)This section applies where by virtue of this Act a children's hearing, pre-hearing panel or court is coming to a decision about a matter relating to a child.
(2)The children's hearing, pre-hearing panel or court is to regard the need to safeguard and promote the welfare of the child throughout the child's childhood as the paramount consideration.
[F1(3)The children's hearing, pre-hearing panel or court is to have regard to any risk of prejudice to the child's welfare that delay in proceedings would pose.]
Textual Amendments
F1S. 25(3) inserted (22.6.2025) by Children (Scotland) Act 2020 (asp 16), ss. 30(7), 34(2); S.S.I. 2025/157, reg. 2
Commencement Information
I1S. 25 in force at 24.6.2013 by S.S.I. 2013/195, arts. 2, 3