Why does Scouting need more help?
We have over 30,000 young people on waiting lists due to the
lack of adult volunteers. If more adults helped out this would take
the burden off our current volunteers and allow more young people
to experience the adventure of Scouting. More adults would mean
more young people could join Scouting, Groups could be smaller or
new Groups could even open. We always welcome any help from adults.
Find out more.
How can I help with Scouting?
There are many ways in which you can give your time to help
Scouting whatever your gender, age, abilities and skills. Simply
let us know your availability and how you would like to help and we
will match this to roles within your local area.
I don't have a background in Scouting, does this matter?
No previous Scouting experience is needed. Energy and enthusiasm
are the qualities we are looking for.
My child is in Scouting, is there anything I could do to
help?
The short answer is yes. Many of our helpers and Leaders are
parents of our youth Members. This is for a number of reasons
including being able to see first hand how Scouting benefits young
people and wanting to give something back, being able to spend more
time with their child and realising that volunteering for Scouting
is enjoyable and teaches them new skills. Speak to your child's
Section Leader to discuss how you might become involved.
I will only be able to help out on a flexible basis is this
ok?
Yes. There are many different ways to help in Scouting and many
of these can be adapted to suit your needs. Whether you can help
out once a fortnight, month or term or just at special events or
camps, there is bound to be a role you can play.
Will I get paid?
Unfortunately, as a voluntary organisation we are unable to pay
volunteers for the time they give to Scouting. Out of pocket
expenses are paid and many Leaders are offered opportunities to
take part in activities and social activities.
What are the benefits of helping out?
There are a number of benefits you can gain from volunteering.
Spending time with your child, learning new skills and contributing
to your community are just a few of the reasons why our current
Leaders choose to spend some of their spare time in Scouting.
I don't have a specific skill but am keen to help out, what can
I do?
Everyone will have a skill, attribute or ability that they can
pass on to our young people. One of the best things about
volunteering however, is the chance to learn new skills you may not
have been able to otherwise.
Do I have to wear uniform?
No. Although Scouting is a uniformed organisation, adults in
Scouting do not have to wear a uniform.
Are there any age restrictions on helping out?
As long as you are over 18 years of age, you can help out as an
adult volunteer in Scouting. There is no upper age limit for adult
volunteers. If you are aged between 14-18, there is the option of
becoming a Young Leader. More information about the Young Leaders'
Scheme.
What is the process for joining?
There is an application form to fill out which someone in your
Group will be able to help you with. For some roles you will be
required to meet a small group of people outside of the Group to
discuss the role you wish to take on. References are also required
for some roles. An enhanced Criminal Records (or equivalent in
Scotland or Northern Ireland) check is carried out on all
volunteers.
Will I be insured?
Yes. All Members are covered under our Personal Accident and
Medical Expenses Policy.