scouting december/january 2014

Adventure on your doorstepWhat do you think of when I say the word adventure? Abseiling down a rock face? Hot-air ballooning? Trekking through a rainforest? Obviously, youd be right but these adrenaline highs arent the be all and end all of adventure.

Adventure is about doing something that challenges you and nudges you out of your comfort zone; it doesnt mean you have to be the tough guy wearing a harness or ice grips.

This issue of Scouting is brimming with amazing experiences that you, as Scout volunteers, are totally familiar with: bite-sized, everyday adventures.

Just take a look at page 46, where weve talked to volunteers about their most memorable overnight stays. What binds these experiences isnt the white-knuckle factor, but simply that theyre a break from the norm and help those involved to develop life skills, confidence and independence.

Read about youth-led achievements in Merseyside on pages 2225; here young people are being handed the reins to make decisions adventures of another sort. And on pages 3441, we meet young people who are benefiting from our trailblazing project with the Youth United Foundation. At the heart of this is the belief that everyone, everywhere, should get the chance to enjoy the thrill of Scouting.

Wherever I am, I try to transform what Im doing into a memorable experience. Adventures dont come to you; go out and seek them. You might be surprised where they lead you.

LOG ON TO FIND MORE AT SCOUTS.ORG.UK/

MAGAZINE

Bear Grylls Chief Scout

Scouting Editors Lee Griffiths, Matthew Jones, Antonia Kanczula, Vicky Milnes and Kevin YeatesWith thanks to... Steve Backhouse, Wayne Bulpitt, Alan Burnham, Stuart Carter, Liz Craig, Ralph Doe, Emma Donnell, Graham Haddock, Karen Hardwick, Glenn Harvey, Ray Hutchinson, Celia King, Austin Lill, Anthony Monckton, Steve Moysey, Heather Quiney, Sally Sellwood, Kester Sharpe, Pamela Tompsett and Thomas Yems The national magazine of The Scout Association ISSN 0036 9489 2013 The Scout AssociationRegistered Charity Numbers: 306101 (England and Wales) and SC038437

Published by The Scout Association,Gilwell Park, Chingford, London E4 7QWTel: 0845 300 1818Fax: 020 8433 7103Email: [email protected]: scouts.org.uk/magazine

Please send all contributions to: [email protected] note that the views expressed by members and contributors in the magazine are not necessarily those of The Scout Association.

Scouting is produced by Immediate Media Branded Content, 9th Floor, Tower House, Fairfax Street, Bristol BS1 3BNEditor Anna ScrivengerArt Editor James Daniel Project Manager Ian OchiltreeDirector of Immediate Media Branded Content Julie WilliamsGroup Publishing Director Alfie LewisCover image Jon ChallicomADVERTISINGAdvertising Manager Tom ParkerEmail: [email protected] Tel: 0117 314 8781

It is important to note the differing structures of UK Scouting in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. However, for ease of reading this supplement refers to all variations of County-level groupings simply as County.

You can read Scouting magazine and Get Active! online at scouts.org.uk/magazine.

110,002 average circulation of Scouting from 1 Jan31 Dec 2011

Immediate Media Branded Content. Printed in the UK by William Gibbons. All rights reserved. Unauthorised reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without written permission. Every effort has been made to secure permission for copyright material. In the event of any material being used inadvertently, or where it proved impossible to trace the copyright owner, acknowledgement will be made in a future issue.

This magazine can be recycled, for use in newspapers and packaging. Please remove any gifts, samples or wrapping and dispose of it at your local collection point.

We are proud to say Scouting is PEFC certified. For more information go to pefc.co.uk. Promoting sustainable forest management.

PEFC/16-33-795

scouts.org.uk/magazine SCOUTING 3

THE KNOWLEDGE49 Volunteer

Assistant Scout Leader Alex Fogg champions youth input

50 Advice Your questions are answered by our expert panel

52 Advice Celia Kings last interview on leadership and management

54 Cold front Bolster your immunity to keep winter lurgies at bay

56 Walk Explore the stunning coastlines of the Hebrides

59 Food Cook up a camp chilli the perfect winter camp warmer

61 Christmas quiz Tease your brain and win

Ordnance Survey goodies

ON THE COVER18 Special delivery

Scouts help spread winter cheer22 Voices of a generation

How young people are helping shape Scouting in Merseyside

34 United we stand Extending Scouting into new areas around England

43 Flexible volunteering A practical toolkit to find a volunteer role to fit any lifestyle

UP FRONT9 News

The latest happenings from the world of Scouting

13 Housekeeping Essential Print Centre and membership system updates

15 Whats on Stuck for new year event ideas? Look no further

16 Mailbox Your letters, emails, tweets, posts and pictures

FEATURES28 Global gatherings

Amazing international experiences at home and abroad

33 Scout Community Week 2014 Tips for success

46 Quirky camps Your unusual overnight stays

Every issue we ask three readers to share their thoughts on the subjects we

cover. If you fancy joining our reader

panel for an issue, email [email protected] to sign up. And keep an eye out for our handy reader panel stamp throughout the magazine.

This month we asked our readers Whats your Scouting new years resolution?

Karen Hardwick, Beaver Scout LeaderBecome more involved with our other sections so I can find out what Explorers, Scouts and Cubs want and set

my Beaver Scouts off in the right direction. One event we were all involved in was Scout Community Week; we held a one-day event where all sections helped. It was great to see everyone working together.

Anthony Monckton, Cub Scout LeaderTo get involved in more nights away experiences. I have recently taken over as a Cub Scout Leader and the Cubs love

going on camp. Also, our District is running a competition for the most nights away and I want our Group to win!

Thomas Yems, Young LeaderTo improve youth involvement in South Yorkshire on a County, District and Group level. I would also like to encourage other

Counties to share ideas and innovations about youth involvement, and Id like to see a closer integration between Scouting and the British Youth Council on a local level, in order to try and get the voice of young people heard on a wider basis.

4 SCOUTING December/January 2014

18

34

REGULARS6 Waynes word

This issues message from the UK Chief Commissioner

27 Our vision How to empower young people to shape Scouting

66 Last word British astronaut Tim Peakes thirst for adventure started with Scouts

Wherever you see this icon you can unlock hidden extras via your Smartphone. Download Layar from the App Store, open the app then point your phone camera at the page and watch what happens on your phone screen!

Working together is successPartnership is the cornerstone of the Scouting Movement, as Wayne Bulpitt explains

I t was Henry Ford who once said: Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success. It strikes me that effective partnerships are critical as we work towards achieving the Vision and theyre at the core of many of our present successes, as showcased in this issue of Scouting magazine.

At a local level, Scouting invariably works most successfully where the Group and District work in partnership; where one helps, values and supports the other. The same can be said for several of the development projects, including those highlighted on pages 3441, where the UK government has provided funding and Scouting is working in partnership with local communities, developmental staff and volunteers to extend our reach.

Then theres the partnership between UK Headquarters and local Scouting; where the former needs to be seen as fully in tune with local Scouting as it develops resources and support to make life at the sharp end ever easier and better understood by wider audiences.

Individually, each of us relies on the support of our families, friends and colleagues in order to help us offer Scouting to even more members of our local communities.

Next time you are pondering over a problem and unsure of how best to move obstacles or overcome adversity, take a step back and ask yourself


how you could perhaps work better in partnership with others within or outside of Scouting to improve or overcome the barrier.

There are other benefits to working together successfully; I am reminded of a final quote from the industrialist and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie (18351919): There is little success where there is little laughter. Undoubtedly this is an element that sits behind all successful partnerships!

December 20137 Trustee Board

January 201411 UKCC team meeting18 Bexley Borough GSL19 Wales area

comms meeting25 Operations Committee

February 20141 Somerset Conference

and CS Awards

IN THE DIARYWaynes always on the move, supporting Scouting around the UK. Heres where hell be in the coming weeks

GO DIGITALIf you choose to receive this magazine in digital format rather than by post, Scouting UK will save 3 per adult per year.

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In Bradford, government funding is helping engage young people via Scouting

Following an extensive 10-month consultation process within and outside of the Movement, The Scout Association has introduced an additional alternative version of the Scout Promise that can be taken by those without a faith for the first time in its 106-year history.

Alternative versions of the Scout Promise have been available for nearly 50 years and have been used by Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists and those who live in the United Kingdom but are not UK

citizens. The core Scout Promise, which refers to a Duty to God, remains intact and Scouting remains fully committed as a Movement that explores faith and religion as a core element of its programme.

The additional alternative version to the Scout Promise will be available to be used by members from 1 January 2014 and plans are underway to help prepare the Movement for this change.

Wayne Bulpitt, UK Chief Commissioner for The Scout Association said: We look

forward to welcoming even more young people and adults to Scouting. Throughout its 106-year history the Movement has continued to evolve and today marks an important step in that journey. We are a values-based Movement and exploring faith and beliefs remains a key element of the Scouting Programme. That will not change.

To read the additional alternative Scout Promise and for more information visit scouts.org.uk/fundamentals.

SCOUTING FOR ALLScouts launch additional alternative version to the core Scout Promise


The latest Scouting news and unmissable events

December/January 2014

GO DIGITALIf you would prefer a digital copy of Scouting magazine rather than a printed version, members can amend their details on scouts.org.uk. Log into the members database, view profile, go into mailings and under magazine select digital only from the drop-down box. A digital PDF version will then get emailed instead of a printed version being posted.

SCOTLAND SCOUTS VOTEYoung people across Scotland will have the right to vote in Scotlands Independence Referendum next year. Generation 2014 will see 24 boys and 24 girls forming a panel and broadcasting their political opinions throughout the next 12 months. Max Merrill, an Explorer Scout from Glasgow, is one of the passionate young people keen to get his voice heard: I am very interested in politics and current affairs [and] I have been in the debating club at school for five years. Find out more from bbc.co.uk/generation2014.

WELL SPOTTEDEagle-eyed readers of Scouting magazine were quick to spot a glaring error in the last issue (Oct/Nov, p.45), which stated that our CEO, Matt Hyde, had acquired the Tailor Badge as a Cub. Of course, the badge was only ever awarded to Scouts, not Cubs and was phased out in 1927, long before Matt Hyde was born. It belonged to his grandfather; and well done to those who spotted the inaccuracy.

Bear ends his tour in Scouting style, joining in adventures in the East of England

The final leg of the Bear in the Air tour saw our Chief Scout Bear Grylls touching down in Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire. Bear met thousands of excited Scouts and volunteers, got stuck into activities including archery, sailing and catapulting and also presented awards to some of our bravest Scouts.

At Essex 24, which took place at Skreens Park Activity Centre near Chelmsford, Bear rallied crowds for the non-stop, day-long adventure: Days like this remind me of everything I love about Scouting. Were part

of this family: some 30 million Scouts around the world; never take it for granted.

Bear gave a shout out to the inspiring leaders that help make Scouting possible: Always be grateful to your leaders because theyre amazing. You guys totally have my respect; they give all of their time, energy and resources all for free and all to encourage.

Jack, an Explorer and one of the lucky young people to meet Bear in Great Yarmouth, said: [It] was the best birthday present ever the coolest thing Ive ever done. Check out Bears brilliant video on our YouTube channel.

A mini adventureThe world of Scouting has just got smaller thanks to Minifigs.me, a company dedicated to personalising the iconic figures. Its now offering Scout members the chance to replicate themselves in LEGO form, complete with uniform and customised necker.

Produced in collaboration with The Scout Association, 10% from the sale of the figures goes straight back into Scouting. Check out minifigs.me for info, scouts.org.uk/shop for a range of T-shirts, and the iTunes App Store where you can download a Scout minifigs game (69p). Dont forget to check out our video featuring LEGO Cubs talking about their adventures; find it at scouts.org.uk/TV.

BEAR HEADS EAST


Point here to view the LEGO Cubs video.

SCOUTS SPEAKING UP

SCOUTS SING CHRISTMASThe Bright Sparks Christmas album, which features the musical talents of one thousand Scouts, is out now and available to download from various outlets including Scout Shops and the iTunes store.

The tracklist is brimming with festive favourites including Santa Claus is Coming to Town and In the Bleak Midwinter, plus two original tracks created by producer Kevin McPherson and Ivor Novello-winning songwriter, Michelle Escoffery.

The album also includes the bonus track, Let It Out sung by Kayleigh Ann Walters of Sutton Coldfield Scouts and Handsworth Gang Show.

The Bright Sparks Project Christmas album is designed to help Scouts fundraise for themselves or a special cause of their choice this festive season and is available to buy wholesale from brightsparksproject.com.

UPFRONT

Join a project in Birmingham that will

inspire Scouts nationwide

Scouts Speak Up took to the road for the sixth year this autumn, giving Scouts the opportunity to air and discuss their views during party conference season.

At the Liberal Democrats conference, Explorers, Young Leaders, Network members and their leaders debated topics ranging from the environment to the role of young people in sport and outdoor activities. Meanwhile at the Labour Party conference in Brighton the positive impact of young people in society was a running theme.

Finally, nearly one hundred Scouts met

politicians at the Conservative Party conference in Manchester. Adil Sait, a Scout from 4th Poplar, said: Being a Scout increases youth awareness and participation in community groups. It helps to bring different communities together. This event was a fantastic opportunity to talk about the issues that matter to us.

Find out more about events like this and get help engaging your local representatives by contacting our Public Affairs team at [email protected].


DETERMINE YOUR PATHOur inspirational promo film Paths, first premiered at The Scout Association AGM in September, is now available to download so you can champion Scouting locally. To download, go to the Brand Centre, right click on the link, select Save Target As and then save. You can also leave your comments about the video at scouts.org.uk/TV.

READ ALL ABOUT ITTwo more must-have books for Scouting devotees: find out more about the life of artist Ernest Stafford Carlos, who created the iconic Pathfinder painting, in the first-ever published biography. Painting in Earnest by Steven Harris, 12 (plus 3 postage), is available from bookshops or direct from the publishers at lewarnepublishing.co.uk. A commemorative edition of the 1914 classic Scout Tests and How to Pass Them is also available now, exploring vintage badges, at 12.99 from scouts.org.uk/shop.

ADVENTURE IN STYLE A new licensing partnership with Vango aims to help Scouts during their adventures. Vango and The Scout Association have worked together to develop a range of equipment that meets the Scouts high standards of quality, safety and durability. This includes tents, rucksacks, sleeping bags and footwear, at scouts.org.uk/shop.

GET MEDIA SAVVYMedia and communications training workshops are set for spring/summer 2014. Adults can learn new skills from pitching stories to social media marketing and young people can be trained to become effective spokespeople for Scouts. See scouts.org.uk/events for info.

Scouts lent their voices to political conferences, discussing issues important to young people

UPFRONT


The latest on our membership system and Print Centre

Compass helping you keep track of Scouting Compass allows members to manage their Scouting tasks all in one place. Offering high data security, it will streamline tasks and significantly cut the time you spend on administration. The system can perform a variety of tasks, including: Emailing all section or Group contacts Awarding and maintaining badges/awards Producing reports and distribution lists

(including for The Scout Association census) Managing young people and adults leaving,

joining or transferring Assigning roles Managing training and events Issuing/renewing permits and vetting checks Creating, closing or merging sections

and Groups

Compass is the only online system provided by The Scout Association and is free of charge to users. Currently in the development and testing stage, it will be ready for members to use during 2014.

Each County/Area/Region (Scotland) has a volunteer (Compass Implementation Champion) managing the process of introducing Compass to that local area and another volunteer (Compass Training Champion) to oversee any Compass training requirements for members.

Visit scouts.org.uk/compass to view a set of frequently asked questions and find out who the Compass Implementation and Training Champions are in your County/Area/Region (Scotland).

Deleted factsheets:FS270001 Data protection and Scouting advice is available at scouts.org.uk/dataprotection

FS330058 Assistant Cub Scout Leader Role Description merged into FS330055

FS330061 Assistant Scout Leader Role Description merged into FS330055

Updated resources:FS330066 County Training Admin role description

FS330067 County Training Manager role description

FS330068 Local Training Admin role description

FS330069 Local Training Manager role description

FS330070 Training Adviser role description

FS315082 Simple knots

FS315070 Axes and saws

FS315076 Fire lighting

FS315080 Lashings

FS315085 Tent pitching

FS330055 Assistant Section Leader role description (formerly Assistant Beaver Scout Leader role description, now updated for Beaver, Cub and Scout sections)

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENT SERVICESAugustSeptember 2013 0.020% 0.520%

Interest at the higher rate applies to deposits of 5,000 and above. Contact Frances on 020 8433 7252 (Monday-Friday, 9am-3pm) for further information.

The Print Centre is a facility available to all members, allowing you to create professional, on-brand communications and spread the word about Scouting.

Youll find a wide range of over 500 posters, flyers and other templates, which you can then customise with your own wording and local details. To get

started, simply log in at scouts.org.uk/brand using your normal username and password. Then click on the green Print Centre button in the bottom left of your screen.

Whats new? Beaver Scout Colony leaflet perfect for new parents

A4 multi-page document template ideal for local reports Scout map of the UK add your own details and colours Custom banners choose a design or create your ownTo help promote our Everyday Adventure brand, download How to Talk About Scouting at scouts.org.uk/brand.

Print Centre

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1012JANWintercampA weekendof thrills for Scouts, Guides, Rangers and Explorers. Brave the chill and try activities from shooting and archery to radio orienteering and quad biking, in a packed programme across two sites: Gilwell Park and Hawkhirst Scout Activity Centres. wintercamp.org.uk.

25JAN DofE Training: IntroductionThis introduction to the Duke of Edinburgh course in Leicestershire covers DofEs mission and principles, and gives an overview of its levels, sections and timescales. Highly recommended for all DofE leaders. scouts.org.uk/events.

22FEB Founders DayUse Baden-Powells birthday to reflect on the

origins of Scouting. Ideas at members.scouts.org.

uk/suggestedthemes, or get involved on Twitter using #foundersday.

15FEB Southern 50 ChallengeAre your Explorers, Network or leaders up for a challenge? Test teamwork, orienteering skills and endurance with a 50 mile, 50km or 30km trek. scouts-gln-southern50.org.uk.

7FEB DofE Training: Expedition Supervisor and Assessor These residential courses in Hampshire help supervisors understand their role, manage risk and provide best quality expedition experience. More info at scouts.org.uk/events.

Further aheadScouts Speak Up12 and 1516 MarchSign up Explorers for this training course at either Gilwell Park or the John Lowther Centre, Northamptonshire. Young people will learn to act as spokespeople for Scouting.scouts.org.uk/events.

World Book Day6 MarchThis year a great range of books for children and young adults will be sold for 1 each. Why not get hold of some and set up a Scout book club? Youll also find great games and resources at worldbookday.com.

World Water Day22 March Set up a water obstacle course with your section and challenge them to save every precious drop of water along the way. Visit Programmes Online and download the activity.

A Day of Celebration and Achievement27 April A highlight in the Scouting calendar and held at Windsor Castle, this event celebrates the achievements of young people and volunteers. Find out more at scouts.org.uk/windsor.

1FEB Media and Communications WorkshopThis one-day workshop in Hampshire gives ideas for improving communications and press coverage. Email [email protected] for more info.


UPFRONT

31JAN Chinese New YearWhy not make Chinese Dragons with your section? Log in and download the activity at Programmes Online. scouts.org.uk/pol.

Upcoming events, training opportunities and noteworthy dates to help you plan your programme

14 JAN Makar SankrantiThis important Hindu festival is marked with colourful celebrations and kite flying. Visit howtoons.com/?p=2151 for a great kite design.

24FEB Fairtrade FortnightFocus on fair trade over the next two weeks and explore issues a"ecting farmers in developing countries. How can we help producers get better prices and working conditions? Search Programmes Online for a great range of activity ideas.

@UKScouting | scouts.org.uk/facebook | scouts.org.uk/TV Email: [email protected] | Write to: Scouting magazine, Gilwell Park, Chingford, London E4 7QW

mailboxPHOTO OF THE MOMENT

Small green fingers70 of Southgates Beavers descended on Scout Park in Bounds Green for a Global Challenge Funday. The fun included planting daffodil bulbs, making pizza, learning the Canadian Scout Promise and a few words of German. This photo is of Felix, 23rd Southgate and Charlotte, 5th Southgate.Stephen Way, Greater London North Scouts

December/January 2014

WORLDWIDE PERSPECTIVECould Scouting magazine include more content on the major issues confronting Scouting outside the UK, for instance how Scouting is coping in trouble spots like Syria? We are a worldwide Movement with 98% of our membership outside the UK, and I feel were inadequately informed. Perhaps we could read some abbreviated reports from gatherings such as the World Conference?Christopher C Dean, Deputy CC (Programme), Greater London SWEditors response: Wed like to hear from readers about topics youd like us to tackle.


Enjoy our gallery of reader photos.

WRITE IN TO WINOur STAR LETTER writer wins a copy of the Outdoor Adventure Manual: Essential Scouting Skills for the Great Outdoors. Available from scouts.org.uk/shop at a special price of 14 (RRP 21.99).

@UptonScouts Beaver sleepover last night, media training today, development for kids, development for adults thats what I love about @UKScouting.

@AZmaps 60 very happy Cubs using their personalised mapping we made them for a project.

@stscouts The batteries of your torch will only fail when it is so dark that you cannot see to replace them. #101 #dark #iSCOUT

KNOTS AND LASHINGSWhether youre climbing, pioneerin

g or angling, knots and lashings form an essential

part of your outdoor knowledge. Practise in your spare time and youll

soon know the

di!erence between a bend and a bight .

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE MANUAL

KnotsPeople have been tying knots for

thousands of years, and

despite modern technology they remain as vital as ever today.

In sports such as sailing, climbing, caving and angling, and

in work such as firefighting, fishing, truck driving and even

surgery, the ability to tie the right knot is essential.

All knots have a purpose, and its just as important to

understand what that purpose is, and when the knot should

be used, as it is to be able to tie it. Using the wrong knot at

the wrong time can be dangerous.

Rope terminologyYou wont need to be told that a p

iece of rope has two ends!

However, in order to work with ropes its useful to understand

the terminology used to describe their different parts.

How ropes are measuredRopes are normally measured by

their circumference. For

example, a 75mm rope is approximately 25mm in diameter.

U A loop made by turning the

rope back on itself

and crossing the

standing part.

U Bight A loop made by turning the

rope back on itself

without crossing the

standing part.

U Bend A knot used for tying

one rope to

another.

U Hitch A means of fastening a rope to

another object such

as a post, spar, pole

or log without

using a full knot.

UWorking end The end of the rope

youre using to tie a knot.

U Standing part Any part between the two ends.

U Standing end The opposite end of

a rope to that being

used to tie the knot.

Hanking a ropeHanking your rope prevents it fro

m getting knotted while in

storage. Wrap the rope around your thumb and little finger

in a figure of eight. Now, holding the roped bundle together,

remove with your other hand and wind the free length firstly

over itself, and then back down the length. Pull the short

free end to find the loop that draws in. Form a loop with the

standing end through, pulling it firmly. The hank

should now

be tight. To

free the whole

rope, pull on both ends.

PROJECT: A-FRAME SHELTERAs youd expect, an A-frame shelter resembles a letter A when viewed end-on. Its one of the most popular and versatile kinds of emergency shelter as it can be built relatively quickly, can be built to any size, and is quite sturdy if constructed properly.

Before you begin work on your A-frame, check that the site is suitable for example, dont build it near an animal trail or ants nest. Check that there arent any dead branches above you. Think about where the sun rises and sets and the direction of the prevailing wind you can judge the terrain and surrounding flora to help avoid an exposed position. Avoid lower ground between two high points, as cold air can collect in such places and rain run-off may be a problem.

Spend time selecting and gathering your materials first, so that you can then concentrate on building your shelter in one sustained session. To a certain extent you can improvise the foliage depending on what you find on the forest floor.

Di!culty Total time Allow 1 hour +

J^[7#

UPFRONT


Kent Scouts Climbing activities this afternoon getting the different

Districts working together!

@SwanleyScouts Nice pic of our young people up for @wsj2015 selection this weekend #WSJ2015 #iScout

Blackpool District Scouts 1st Bispham Cub Pack received their Chief Scout

Silver awards tonight with the Bear Grylls waxwork! Well done everyone!

@Philip_Britton Enjoyed seeing new Cubs invested last night. @UKScouting thriving @BoltonSchool with 72 Cubs, 50 Scouts and Beaver Colony.

THANKS TO A STRANGEROn a recent charity walk, I was making my way wearily up Staines high street when a young man in his early 20s asked me which charity I was supporting. When I told him, he gave me a donation and offered me his left hand to shake.

ONE CUB TO ANOTHER Maps are way cooler than my dads sat nav, you can lose yourself in a map.AT AN EXPLORER BARN DANCE That boy kisses like a Hoover, so avoid dancing with him.DURING APEX CHALLENGE Is there any camo paint left on my face? I dont want to get rid of it all.ASKING BEAVERS HOW THEY HELP AT HOME I flush the toilet.AFTER WEEKEND AT CUB CAMP I havent cleaned my teeth for three days. Will they fall out?

Tweet us using #overheardscouts, get in touch via Facebook or email to tell us what youve overheard.

The funny things Scouts say

OVER HEARD

STAR LETTER Above and beyond duty

The annual Scout Border Hike based at Gradbach Scout Camp provides a challenging outdoor test for Scouts, Explorers and Guides. However, for one Scout the route recently presented an even tougher challenge. James, a Scout from 25th Warrington East Scout Group, has cerebral palsy, which limits his mobility and means he often relies on walking sticks and a wheelchair. After almost 10 hours, exhaustion was starting to show, but invigorated by the strength of support, James persevered. Each time he fell down, he got up again with a wider smile on his face. Cheered on, James and his team mates made it to the finish, coming in ninth out of 24 Scout teams. James achievement has made me realise a number of things: firstly, that we shouldnt underestimate any young people in Scouting; secondly, the power of enthusiasm and determination; and finally, that with the right support anything is achievable.Paul Read, Gradbach Scout Camp service crewEditors response: Great to hear such a positive story of determination in overcoming adversity and rising to challenges. James is a credit to the Movement and we congratulate him and his team on their success.

I asked him if he was a Scout and he said he had been. He then disappeared down the street. I didnt see him again but it brought a small tear to my eye and inspired me to dig deep for the last leg to Runnymede. That encounter will stay in my memory for a long time. Claire Woodforde

Cheshire Scouts Cheshire Scouts and HOBY Youth Development

weekend drew to a close today. Wayne Bulpitt, UK Chief Commissioner for Scouts, plus District Commissioners from across the County came to visit for the day. I think they went away humbled and inspired by the outstanding young people we have in Cheshire. #superproud #hobysc


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deliverySpecial

D uring the chilly days of December, theres a good chance you will see Scouts and volunteers trudging through rain, sleet or snow, delivering festive post to the households of the Welsh capital and beyond.

Traditional, vital, classic; Cardi! and the Vale of Glamorgans Scout post project is a long-running annual institution, providing yet another chance for both Scouts and volunteers to have a tangible impact on their community.

Starting smallIn operation for more than 30 years, CATVOG Scout Post started with just two Groups; 5th Cardi! and 1st Llanishen, and now covers the whole of the city and the surrounding Vale.

It started small; the Groups werent sure where it was going to go, says Keith Burfoot, Area Vice President. More Groups got involved and it grew very rapidly. By the third or fourth year there were around 30 Scout Groups involved.

Its no surprise that it snowballed so rapidly: when it comes to community Scouts are always the first to roll up

their sleeves and get stuck in. Its probably the biggest Scout post

project in the country, says Paul Willicombe, Chairman and Co-ordinator. We sort and deliver between 700,000 and 800,000 cards every year.

Operation Scout postIts an impressive and well co-ordinated operation, with volunteers and parents pitching in to sort, while Scouts head out in their hundreds to deliver.

I begin planning around June and theres a deadline of 31 July to identify

Scouts in South Wales bring festive cheer to their communityWORDS LEE GRIFFITHS

FESTIVE HELPERS


and tell me which outlets will sell the stamps, says Paul. The stamps are issued in October; we have our first mass sort at the end of November and Scouts start delivering in December.

A range of local businesses sell special Scout stamps; customers can then post their letters in the Scout post boxes, which are also located in the stores. Scout Groups come and collect the letters, sort them into areas

at each of their HQs and then take them to 29th Cardi!s HQ, a large hall in Pontcanna; a process known as the swap.

Adult volunteers eventually team up with Scouts of all ages to deliver the Christmas cards to the local communities. Its a frantic time thats not been without the odd hiccup

Perseverance post The project covers an impressive 47 areas, and cards still appear for addresses further afield. For a couple of years we had a card addressed to

someone in Saudi Arabia, says Keith. It just so happened though that one of our volunteers had a Saudi contact, so they took the card with them and ensured it was delivered.

Letters are sometimes just addressed as Uncle Jim or Auntie Mary with nothing else written on the envelope, adds Keith. You also get other letters for Mr and Mrs Jones, Newport Road, Cardi!; but Newport

Road goes up to about 800 and is over two miles long.

Angry dogs, security gates and severe weather are just some of the obstacles the hardy Scouts face. Our biggest problem is snow, says Keith. A few years ago Cardi! had about 18 inches. We kept calling the Groups to check on

their progress. A lady near where I live, in a hilly area, couldnt get to the swap. I travelled to her, collected her post and did it for her.

Rural areas where the houses have no names can be a challenge, but the Scouts have a practical solution to solve this. It was a problem in St Fagans, west of Cardi!, remembers Keith. So a Scout Group walked through the village, noted every house name and mapped where the houses were, so now its much easier.

Despite all the obstacles, Scouts and volunteers persevere and continue to do sterling work throughout the festive season to ensure cards arrive safe and sound.

Community spiritCommunity is at the heart of the Scouts post project; without the

Groups passion for where they live and the tireless help of volunteers,

the project just wouldnt exist.Its a fantastic service

and a great fundraiser for the Scout Groups, says

Fay Harding-Lewis, Area Appointments Secretary and

Assistant Cub Scout

FESTIVE HELPERS

Its nice to sort out all the cards and help to deliver them LOGAN, 15, 7th CARDIFF SCOUTS


1Signed, sealed and deliveredThe Cardiff Groups arent the only ones delivering cards in the UK; similar projects are run by 1st Sedgefield in County Durham; 4th Ashby de la Zouch; 1st Malden in London; various Groups in Ipswich and Wirral Scouts and Guides.

2 Bauble brigadeHelping communities spruce up for the season, Groups across the UK including 1st Winterbourne Down and Buryside, Pinkneys Green, 4th Ewell (Nonsuch) and 1st Hersham also sell festive trees and decorations to raise funds.

3 Toy storyLucky Beavers and Cubs at 22nd Gloucester have tested Christmas toys at Debenhams to gauge their popularity and make it easier for parents to buy gifts for their children during the stressful shopping period.

4 Spreading cheerIn 2012, 6th Lochaber (the Braes) in the Scottish Highlands visited a retirement home to spread some

cheer; Cubs and Beavers made cards and Christmas decorations with the older people, some of whom hadnt been out of their rooms in months.

5 Sleigh bells ringScouts from 3rd Market Harborough have been guiding Santa and his sleigh around every street in the Leicestershire town for 35 years; it takes the whole of December to complete.

6 Tree-mendous Last year, as the festive season drew to a close, Teignbridge Scouts in Devon collected Christmas trees and took them to Paignton Zoo. This saved households trips to the tip and also benefited the zoo; monkeys and other animals enjoyed playing with the trees.

Leader. Most of the money we make from selling stamps goes right back into Scouting. In fact, the scheme raises over 170,000 a year for the participating Groups and Areas.

Fay continues: Older people particularly appreciate the project. The older generation still send a lot of cards and sometimes Christmas is the only time that families contact each other, which is sad but true, so Scouts help make that happen.

The sense of community drives the project, not just in terms of the fantastic impact it has, but the way it brings people together.

The post sort used to be based at the HQ of a Scout Group I ran and wed keep it open all day and invite anyone who wanted to come along, remembers Keith. It got to a stage where we had retired postmen coming in, grandmothers of Cubs, neighbours and friends. People would bake and bring in scones and cakes and it would be a real social occasion.

With electronic greetings cards increasing in popularity, the postal service could well be a thing of the past in a few years, which would be a great loss for the community. But with enough help from parents and volunteers, Paul hopes that the project will last another 30 years.

Having enough adult support to allow it to continue is the key to keeping it going, says Paul. Its the Scouts parents that we mainly rely on to do the delivery. Its thanks to them that weve kept the scheme going.

6 FESTIVE FEATS

FESTIVE HELPERS

More infoGet in touch via scouts.org.uk/magazine to tell us what your Group gets up to at Christmas. Tell local press too, via your Media Development Manager. Email [email protected] to find their contact details.

Scouts from all over the UK are busy in their communities during the winter


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Young people are successfully workin

g with

adults throughout Merseyside but th

is is only

the beginning of a beautiful friendshi

p

VOICES OF A GENERATION

If you want to know what

young people are thinking

and what they want, just

ask them.It sounds simple e

nough,

but putting this into practice is

another matter entirely, especially

when you have 400,000 young voice

s

to listen to. In a bid to engage more

young people in Scouting, Merseysid

e

Scouts set out to give them a platfor

m

on which to speak, and that platform

is a thriving Youth Forum.

Young people are more switched

on and engaged than theyve ever

been, continues Michael Hussey, 24,

Merseyside County Scout Network

Commissioner. If you look at just 20

years ago, the common saying was

young people should be seen and no

t

heard. That certainly isnt the case

any more. Young people have a voice

,

and they want to be heard.

Young people have always been

at the heart of Scouting and helping

them reach their full potential

continues to be a priority; Merseysi

de

Scouts wanted to take the idea of

Scouts shaping the Movement to

the next level.

The Merseyside Scout Youth Forum

was set up just over two years ago

at the Countys annual residential,

where each DC was asked to bring

one youth representative with

them to discuss the possibility of

setting up a forum. This wasnt

mere tokenism; the young people

debated and shared ideas with

adults and through workshops and

discussions the basis of a forum

was formed and accepted by the

County Executive Committee. The

forum now acts as a formal sub-

group of the Executive, which allow

s

a direct line of communication to the

youth members.

REALTROOPERS

Young people are more switched

on than theyve ever been

MICHAEL HUSSEY

WORDS LEE GRIFFITHS


REAL TROOPERS

Young people formed the Youth Forum through debate and discussion

OF A TION

REAL TROOPERSMERSEYSIDE SCOUT YOUTH FORUM Merseyside Founded: 2011Members: 30Meet at: Tawd Vale Scout CampsiteDid you know? Baden-Powell planted a tree at Tawd Vale to mark the camps opening on 11 November 1932.

weve come up with. If it requires some thinking, we pose it beforehand and then talk about the possible solutions at the meeting.

Another initiative created and carried out was a Youth Forum marquee, which travels to Scouting events and acts as a central hub for young people to share ideas. The marquee visited the annual Mersey Moot last September, where the members gathered feedback from young people.

That was the first time wed done that, reflects Emma. We wanted to physically get out there and make sure the young people and the forum are seen.

Listening is key The marquee gives young people the opportunity to find out more about and sign up to the Scouts Speak Up events, which involves young people visiting political party conferences and talking to MPs about the issues a!ecting them.

Paul Coleman, DC of Birkenhead, is always keen to hear the thoughts and opinions of young people, and says that by listening to the needs

of youth members, you sometimes receive surprising feedback.

He says: One of the first meetings we had was after St Georges Day, where we took the opportunity to get feedback from the young people on their thoughts on the process. We asked if it should be modernised, and interestingly, they liked the tradition and they enjoyed it as it was. That surprised me. Its imperative that we ask these questions and listen to the answers.

Riona, 17, a forum member and Young Spokesperson for Merseyside Scouts, has also helped shape Scouting throughout the District by listening to the needs of the young people.

It was put forward that young people across Merseyside wanted more cross-sectional links, so that they could find out more about the next step in Scouting, says Riona. The Forum used this idea to create Taste of Network Days acrossMerseyside, forExplorers to meet the people who run Network in their area.

She continues: The young people also wanted a Youth Forum atDistrict level too, so that they could make changes to their own

Emma Donnelly, a Network member who was 20 at the time, was one of the members involved. Its important for young people to have a say in what they are doing, she says. The Association is so big and mostly run by adults, but they may not be as connected with the kids and have a clear understanding of what they want. Why cant young people work in partnership with adults to help shape the Movement?

And thats exactly what the Youth Forum is there to do: to empower young people and make Scoutings Vision 2018 where adults work in partnership with young people become a reality.

Action plansMerseyside Scouts also wanted to get youth representatives on the County Executive, and they got the job done. Emma is now on the Executive, as is Michael.

Theres always a specific agenda for the Youth Forum at the Exec meeting, says Michael. We will update them on the Forum and pose questions


The forum works by giving young people a chance to

have their voices heard

The Youth Forum marquee travels to events and gathers feedback from young people

REALTROOPERS


personal Groups. We created several District Youth Forums including one for myown District, Birkenhead.

Forum member Caitlin Cubbin, 22, suggests that forums for younger section members might be the way to go, too: We could establish more local youth forums; you want young people to voice their opinions from the beginning; Cubs should have a say on what they want to do, and what they dont. Get them involved.

The voice of the futureYoung peoples views are extremely important to Scouting, says forum member Nathan, 21. After all, this is a youth organisation andIm passionate about being part of the process of representing and expressing the opinions of young people from my area.

A lot of our members are not only keen but are very educated and opinionated about the issues of today and how they are a"ected by them, says Alex Carroll, County Executive Committee Youth Representative. Ive been amazed time and time again by the dedication that our members have shown and the enthusiasm and spirit they put into

Having a collaborative platform develops interpersonal skills and

benefits local communities

every event that they attend. It is so inspiring to see.

This is certainly the kind of passion that puts Scouting in good hands for the future, and this is only the beginning for the Merseyside Scouts Youth Forum and others like it. While theyre helping to make an impact on local Scouting now, the next step is most certainly having a wider impact on their communities; making a real social change outside of Scouting while creating a bigger, better Movement.

The young people are the DCs and CCs of the future, says Riona. Having a youth forum and empowering young people teaches so many skills and encourages more young people to get involved. This is essential if we want to keep growing and improving.

Young people can channel their ideas through the forum and help shape Scouting

More infoLearn more about youth forums and youth involvement in Scouting at scouts.org.uk/youthinvolvement. Find out about upcoming events at scouts.org.uk/scoutsspeakup.

How we did itEmma Donnelly shares her tips for setting up a youth forum

Work in partnership with your County team. Merseyside Scouts Youth Forum is a sub-committee of the County Executive. Two young nominees were voted onto the County Executive Committee. Forum events are organised in liaison with the County Team via an allocated budget which is set aside for the Youth Forum.

Communicate with clarity. Topics are prioritised and issues that are raised at Youth Forum events are fed back to the County Executive. This ensures that the Youth Forum is listened to.

Mix things up. Have a balance between both fun and formal activities at your forum to create dialogue and work closely in partnership with adults at all levels.

REAL TROOPERS


W hat on earth do I mean? Have I finally lost the plot? Sbypipwa stands for shaped by young people in partnership with adults, and is one of the key aspirations in our Vision 2018 statement.

For many, this Vision statement seems daunting. Surely being an adult leader means providing the guidance and direction that our youth members need. Quality adult leadership has been a key to our success as a Movement for over one hundred years, so why change now?

Well, you might be surprised to learn that for many leaders, sbypipwa is already a reality. Their instinct to deliver what young people in their section want leads them to consult and consider their views. Let me give you some examples. Do you sit your Beavers or Cubs down periodically and ask them what badges they want to do, what games they want to play and what fun activities they want to enjoy? If so, their Scouting is sbypipwa! Do you ask your Scouts where they want to go for summer camp and what they want to do when they get there? If so, their Scouting is also sbypipwa!

Perhaps the most obvious, successful example of sbypipwa is in the Young Leaders Scheme. Here, young people influence the sort of Scouting that is delivered to Beavers, Cubs and Scouts. They are shaping the Scouting of our younger members while developing their own leadership skills.

In my view, where we struggle to make sbypipwa a reality is at District, County and HQ levels. Dragging two young people along to sit through a County Executive meeting where even the adults sometimes lose the will to live is not something that any young person ought to be subjected to. We need to find better ways to help them shape what we do at these levels. Let me give you some suggestions:

s Young people like to see the short-term impact of their input, so why not include them in planning a project or event like the annual District Camp?

In the latest of his series on our Vision, Graham Haddock, Chief Commissioner of Scotland talks about empowering our young people to shape Scouting

Invite them onto the planning team as full members.s Young people like to influence things that they are really interested in. Why not invite previous World Jamboree participants to be involved in the selection of the County Leadership team or participants for the next jamboree?

s Some Counties run youth forums. Think about whether forum is the best name; you could choose an alternative name to engage the age group. Include activities and fun as well as the more serious sbypipwa stuff. Get young people to publicise the event using tools they already use, eg social media. Also make sure that outcomes are agreed and passed on to the relevant body in Scouting where they need to make that impact.

Sbypipwa is not rocket science. In truth, it has been at the core of our operating method for many years. We just need to take it up a notch.

We need to find better ways to help young people shape what we do

Is your Scouting ?

The latest in

the new series

exploring the

Vision Towards

2018

Point here to see young people enjoying Scouting.

GLOBAL GATHERINGSW hether its an hours drive from your Scout HQ or a 10-hour flight away, international events are a fantastic opportunity to mingle with Scouts from across the globe, form friendships, try out exciting new activities and gain a new perspective on life.

Why not sign up your Group for one of the events or join an International Service Team (IST) to help things run smoothly? International events help young people to become active, global citizens and as a volunteer youll have just as much fun. Weve listed some of the unmissable events coming up, and hear from three people about their experiences.

There was such a great atmosphereIn August 2013, 5,000 18 to 25-year-olds descended on Awacamenj Mino in Canada for 11 days of adventure at the Moot. One of them was Jess Partington, an Explorer Scout Leader from Warrington.

The Moot was absolutely incredible. Its a fantastic way to meet

people from all over the world and there is such a great atmosphere. Its also an insight into the country that you would never get normally for example, we learned a lot about the culture of Canadas indigenous people. We saw the vastness of the countryside and visited cities as well.

In my patrol, there were people from Brazil, Australia and Colombia to name a few. We chose our activities together and decided to go sailing and hike up Mount Cayamant. My personal highlight was a cultural day where we shared the culture and food of our di!erent countries. There was a huge contingent from Mexico; they dressed in costume for a themed Day of the Dead carnival.

You get to meet people from all over the world in a unique environment and make friendships that last for years. To anyone thinking about going to the next Moot in Iceland in 2017, Id say definitely do it!

Going to events abroad has also given me the confidence to travel independently. I travelled around Africa after the Moot in Kenya in 2010.

You can definitely have just as much fun at international events in the UK as abroad. Next August Ill be an IST member at Chamboree in Cheshire and Im really looking forward to it.

It opened Scouts eyes and expanded their ideasScout leader Charles Campbell went to Auchengillan Jamboree near Glasgow with his Group. Around 1,200 Scouts and Guides attended this exciting event run by Clyde Scouts.

The jamboree was just half an hour up the road from us but we had the chance to meet people from all over the world. I took 36 members from 12th Glasgow and we camped

You can definitely have just as much fun at international events in the UK as abroad JESS PARTINGTON

International events o!er an amazing experience for you and your Group

INTERNATIONALSCOUTING


The world came to Scotland during

Auchengillan 2013Pi

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REAL TROOPERSWimbledons co tted of volunteers helps

the Shree Ghanapathy Temp

More infoTo register interest and to download the Make the World a Better Place resources, go to scouts.org.uk/SOWA. If you are interested in supporting the award and running Discovery events across the country by joining the SOWA Scout Active Support Unit, please email the SASU manager at: [email protected].


Bear Grylls dropped into the Kent International Jamboree in August 2013

A Moot, like this one in Canada in 2013, is a great way to make new friends from all over the world

Jess Partington has gained confidence and a passion for travel from her Moot experiences

INTERNATIONALSCOUTING

alongside three leaders and 15 young people from Denmark, and got to know them.

The atmosphere was brilliant; it opened the Scouts eyes and expanded their ideas. One of the best events was called the friendship frenzy we got to try di!erent types of food from around the world and swap badges. There were Scouts, Guides and leaders from countries as far afield as Canada, Australia and the Ukraine.

A great thing about the jamboree is that the young people get to do badge work. They can work towards their Global Challenge and Chief Scouts Gold Award. On the first meeting back after the summer break, I spent about 20 minutes giving out badges because theyd ticked o! so many on camp.

They can try out activities that they normally wouldnt have the chance to, such as canoeing and rock climbing. For the first time, there were also special activities that were exclusively for Explorers.

The young people had a ball and I couldnt have asked for a better week. Id definitely recommend taking your Group to an international event, as theyll come away with some amazing memories. Scoutings all about making friends and it was great to meet so many new people, as well as enjoy a jamboree with my wife (who was on sta!) and our two children.

XXXXXXXXXXX

The best thing was making new friendsJill Holford and her husband joined the International Service Team at Kent International Jamboree, where more than 6,000 Scouts and Guides came together for a week of fun.

Im a Cub leader with 8th Dartford and my summers often involve cooking at our local camps. This year my husband and I decided to go to Kent International Jamboree. We wanted to try something new and

our son was going as an IST member supervising the climbing wall.

We ran a display on Our Scouting journey, all about Scoutings history and heritage. We also organised badge swapping, which Ive never done before. We were donated 3,000 badges by the International Badgers Club. Scouts from all over the world visited our stall and the young people absolutely loved it. They kept coming back every day to see if we had any new badges. We asked lots of Scouts in their 80s to help the young people to sew on their badges. We had a special badge made for the jamboree and the Scouts were keen to win these at our quiz on Scouting history.

The jamboree was such a wonderful experience. The week was pretty tiring but in a good way! Events like this give young people so much confidence and the opportunity to try new activities. For me, the best thing was making new friends. I met people from lots of di!erent countries, including Malta, Kenya and Ireland. I even bumped into some of them several weeks later at Reunion!

International events 2014UK EVENTS (selection)Blair Athol Jamborette, Scotland, 1921 July, jamborette.org.uk.Red Rose, Lancashire, 26 July2 August, redrose.org.uk.Goose 14, Dorset, 27 July2 August, dorsetscouts.org.uk/activities/goose.Chamboree, Cheshire, 19 August, chamboree.org.uk.Wings, Berkshire, 29 August, wings2014.org.uk.Norjam, Norfolk, 916 August, norjam.org.uk.H0014, Hampshire, 1016 August, h0014.co.uk.

OVERSEAS EVENTSIf youd like to join the contingent for Roverway 2016 (in France) or Moot 2017 (in Iceland), email [email protected] or complete the online form in the official Scouting events section of Member Resources.For more details about international events in the UK and abroad, contact the International Office at [email protected]. Check out the latest events at

Be prepared be insuredWhether youre off to a major world Scouting event or a day trip to the continent, Unitys travel insurance is designed specifically for Scouting. They can also cover events held in the UK, for cancellation, accidents to non-members and other unforeseen incidents. More info at scoutinsurance.co.uk or call 0845 0945 703.


Theres nothing like an international campfire to

cement world Scouting

scouts.org.uk/internationalopps.


F rom collecting for food banks to revamping gardens, clearing pathways and planting public orchards, Scout Community Week 2013 was bursting with local events. Around the UK, over 2,000 Scout Groups changed lives, bonded communities and raised the profile of Scouting.

But we think we can top it in 2014, when the third Scout Community Week takes place from 2 to 8 June.

Make a di!erenceWere all about impact in 2014. To make Scout Community Week as effective as possible, we want you to be brave and bold with your projects. Choose something that will make a difference. By addressing an issue at the heart of your neighbourhood, you and your young people can be active in your communities and have a lasting effect on others.

You can fundraise for your Group, but its not a prerequisite. Its often an additional challenge during Scout Community Week and it can put the brakes on being adventurous with the kinds of projects you run but if you do want to fundraise, we can support you.

Project inspirationIt may be months away, but this is the time to start identifying and planning projects for June 2014.

To help inspire you, think about the big issues that affect your neighbourhood. Is your town lacking in green oases? Evidence shows that access to spaces such as parks and woodland can improve health, but over 3 million young people in the UK grow up without any such access. Could you help create a space for them?

We live in a communication-hungry world, but loneliness is rife; half of all older people in the UK consider the television as their main form of company. Perhaps your Group could spend time at a local care home or day centre.

Between 2012 and 2013 there was a 170% rise in food bank use in the UK. You can help by organising a collection of food donations in your area. Or contact a community garden or allotment and ask how your Scouts can help out.

HOW B&Q CAN HELPYou can start to build a relationship with our SCW partner B&Q right now. Chat to your local store manager about activities to support your project:

s DIY classes: Available in selected stores,ask what your local store can o"er or visit diy.com/kidsclasses for info.

s In-store fundraising: Book now for slots in January and May.

s Waste donation scheme: Subject to availability, your store may be able to donate unwanted items to your Group.

s Help and advice: B&Q can give project guidance in-store or via B&Qs tutorials at youtube.com/bandq.

Be prepared for Scout Community Week 2014!Register now for the third Scout Community Week and help make it our most successful yet

Register todayTo qualify for your SCW2014 badges and receive a project planning guide, register at scouts.org.uk/communityweek.

In partnership with:

In Bradford, the young people have one night a week to focus on fun, friendship and broadening their horizons


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United we standWe find out about a pioneering project to extend Scouting into areas of England that face di!cult challenges

YOUTHUNITED


YOUTH UNITED

36 SCOUTING scouts.org.uk/magazine

REAL TROOPERS

O ne of the key objectives underpinning our Vision Towards 2018 is inclusivity making Scouting open to all.Thanks to a unique link-up with

the Youth United Foundation (YUF), a coalition of major youth volunteering organisations including Girlguiding and Sea Cadets, Scouting is making progress in some of Englands toughest neighbourhoods.

YUFs investment is giving Scouting the opportunity to extend its reach into six areas with a potential for growth: Birmingham, Bradford, Burnley, Greater Manchester, Knowsley in Merseyside and five London boroughs.

Selected by the governments Department for Communities and Local Government, these communities may be geographically diverse but they share common challenges such as unemployment, poverty and lack of facilities.

TSAs Project Co-ordinator Pamela Tompsett explains: The six areas dont have great youth provision, so young people there really benefit from Scouting. It gives them focus, drive and life skills. It also o!ers their parents

a great way to engage with them.

In the past a lot of volunteers have shied away from opening Groups in certain areas. They expect that the young people will be di"cult and nobody will want to volunteer. Weve proved that when you engage people in the right way, theyll really want to get involved in Scouting.

Community spiritSince the project began in January 2013, our Regional Development Service has been working in partnership with local volunteers to engage communities and open new sections. Theyve held school assemblies to champion Scouting and taster evenings where young people can bring an adult, wholl hopefully join up as a volunteer. The District trains and supports new leaders, ensuring Groups can get up and running as quickly as possible.

In the short-term, YUFs money goes right to the grassroots; helping to fund essentials such as uniform

and kit. Long-term, as well as giving young people and adults the opportunity to experience the thrill of Scouting, the big objective is to bond communities.

Pamela continues: One of our Bradford volunteers joined as a Beaver Leader after her child brought Scouting leaflets home from school. Emma had lived in the area for two years but didnt know many people or how to get involved in the community. Now she says the young people have got to know each other, parents are chatting and she cant walk down the street without people saying hello.

Once the project ends in June 2014, a District-nominated champion will take over the reins and its hoped the benefits will ripple through communities for years to come. As Pamela says: These are the seedlings of a much bigger thing.

So far, Youth United Foundation funding has

set up 80 sections with 196 adult volunteers and

982 young people

YOUTHUNITED

83rd Oldham (St Stephens) Cub PackWhen I was young, my parents couldnt a!ord to send me to Cubs. My best friend went though and Id stand outside watching through the window, says Steve Smith, Assistant Cub Scout Leader at 83rd Oldham, and a Scout volunteer of 12 years. Once I had nothing; now Ive got something. I want to give back and Im giving my time.

Located in an area of Greater Manchester that Cub Scout Leader Gail Smith says o!ers little or nothing for young people to do, the energetic 83rd Oldham Cub Pack was the first Group in England to receive a YUF start-up grant and is flourishing as a result.

Gail enthuses about the highlights so far in the Packs short history; including a District swimming event, an eventful trip to Manchester airport and two summer camps but says its the sheer joy of Scouting that is most striking. I love seeing their faces light up. Some of them have never gone

on a holiday, never stayed away from home or been away from the estate. Scouting is broadening their horizons. They are really blossoming; increasing in confidence, becoming more outgoing and assertive. I go home thinking wow, I achieved something today. Its an amazing feeling.

Gail, Steve and ACSLs Pete and Liz Green were passionate about bringing

Scouting back to this part of Oldham, where a Group folded in 1998. But without the YUF grant, which went towards uniforms, camping and sports kit, plus cash from the Freemasons, secured by Liz, and other local charities, it just would not have been possible. This is an area, adds Liz, where the weekly subscription has a massive impact on household spend.

Its clear that the young people

embrace the opportunities provided by the Pack. Ellen, whose son Leighton, 10, is an enthusiastic member, says shes seen a noticeable change in him. After the first summer camp, he was in an amazing mood, really giddy and couldnt stop talking. Being in Scouts means hes stimulated, which is really important given the lack of opportunities

around here for young people.Gail, Steve and Liz are hugely

optimistic about the future and are already planning to start a Beaver Colony to feed the Pack. This is what Scouting is about, says Steve. Hopefully, these young people will be where I am one day volunteering because they were inspired. So far its been a ball and their smiles are worth everything.

Once I had nothing; now Ive got something. I want to give back STEVE SMITH

For young people who may never have left their housing development, a new door has opened


YOUTHUNITED

69th Bradford South ButtershawThe noise and excitement that emanates from the Bedale Centre, on Bradfords Buttershaw estate, can be heard from streets away. Since 69th Bradford South Buttershaw first opened its doors, Scoutings won over a community where it had lain dormant for almost 30 years.

Project champion Josie Taylor has been involved from the outset, spreading the word about Scouting and mentoring new volunteers and

is overwhelmed by the Groups growth: Theres been nothing quite like this in the area for young people for some time. I think thats why the response has been so great. In April, we held a taster evening for parents and young people we couldnt believe the numbers that came along.

Thomas Cummins, Assistant Cub Scout Leader, was persuaded to volunteer when he attended the taster evening with his young daughters: I liked the sound of it so I jumped on board. I didnt think people from this area would be into Scouting but weve all piled in.

Its clear that Scouting o!ers something unique in the area. The simplest of activities, like assembling pop-up tents, making leather crafts or racing cork boats things that other young people perhaps might take for granted are relished here. Michelle, whose son Oliver is a Beaver, explains: Oliver loves it hes a lot more confident and eager to be outdoors.

Aubrey, who helps to run the Bedale Centre, agrees: Theres nothing else with such a wide variety of activities. Its a great combination of discipline and fun. His daughter Eliora, 6, gives Beavers an unequivocal thumbs up, too.

With Scouting getting such a warm welcome in Buttershaw, the Movements future is bright in this community. Initially we just planned to open a Beaver Colony but there was so much demand that weve opened a Cub Pack too, adds Josie. Next, were hoping to open a Scout Troop in the new year.

More infoFind out more about the YUF project at scouts.org.uk/YUF and at youthunited.org.uk.

Young people in Bradford are now o!ered a safe, warm and fun environment with lots to discover


YOUTHUNITED

FLEXIBLEVOLUNTEERING


This list of questions to ask will help you get acquainted with a prospective volunteer and discover what motivates them. Use it as a basis for starting a conversation so rather than trying to fit someone to a particular vacancy, you can cherry-pick the right role to suit them and their lifestyle.

Q1. How much time have you got available and when is that time? This is a great, yet simple starting point for a conversation. Group roles might entail a regular commitment but volunteers with less time, or infrequent availability, might be better suited to job sharing or taking on bite-sized roles like an Occasional Helper on camp, or Scout Active Support member.

Q2. Whats your motivation for joining Scouting? Give them some prompts: for example, would they like to boost their CV? Or do they see Scouting as a great opportunity to practise their existing skills, learn new ones or simply spend more time with their children?

Q3. Do you want to use your existing skills and interests or develop new ones? Talk to your prospective volunteer about their own interests. Do they have a niche skill that could really benefit Scouting in your area? Or would they like to develop new skills and interests?

Q4. Would you prefer to work with young people or adults?Not all volunteer roles in Scouting involve working with young people. There are plenty of roles that arent involved in section leadership, but are just as valuable and essential to successful Scouting.

Q5. Would you like to line manage other volunteers? If they have management skills theyd like to use or develop, they could take on roles including Group Scout Leader, District Commissioner or County Commissioner.

Q6. Is there anything you dont want to do? As well as finding out what people want to do, identifying things theyd rather avoid is vital too. For instance,

do they dislike handling cash, making telephone calls or dealing with paperwork?

Q7. Are you prepared to undertake training?It goes without saying that working towards the Wood Badge to become a manager, Section Leader or Assistant Section Leader is a much bigger commitment than being a Section Assistant, Executive Committee member or Occasional Helper.

Q8. Is full membership of The Scout Association important to you?If an applicant feels theyd rather not take the Promise and/or wear a uniform they could choose to join as a Section Assistant or Scout Active Support member, and be an associate member. This means they can still receive all the benefits of membership but they dont have to take the Promise. Or they could take on a role, where membership or associate membership is not a requirement, such as administrator, quartermaster or supporter. You can find out more about membership types on Member Resources.

GET TO KNOW YOUR PROSPECTIVE VOLUNTEERS

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There are roles everyone knows about, such as Section Leaders but what about these lesser-known and highly flexible ones?

SECTION ASSISTANTOne of Scoutings best-kept volunteer secrets. Not to be confused with the role of Assistant Scout Leader, Section Assistants assist the Section Leader and Assistant Leaders in delivering the programme. Its a great introductory role for new volunteers whod like to get stuck into Scouting but without the responsibility that

goes with being a leader. Find out more about the role via factsheet FS330062 in the recruitment section of Member Resources.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBEREach Group, District and County/Area has an Executive Committee that acts as its Trustee and within each are various administrative roles, including those of Chairman, Treasurer and Secretary. These are ideally suited to volunteers whod like to work primarily with adults or remotely, or have

irregular availability and strong organisational skills theyd like to make use of.

TRAINING ADVISER Supporting fellow members through training, this is the ideal role for someone with fabulous people skills who wants to see good quality Scouting delivered well. Its also highly flexible; the role can be as large or small as volunteers like. Find out more about the opportunities on o!er at members.scouts.org.uk/trainingadvisers.

More infoThe managers section of Member Resources is packed with useful information on roles and recruiting volunteers. Go to members.scouts.org.uk/supportresources to find out more, and head to our Brand Centre to download a poster to help you recruit. Plus, watch our flexible volunteering videos, Think differently about volunteering, by pointing your Layar app at this page or visiting scouts.org.uk/videos.

ROLE SHARING EXPLAINEDOne easy way to make a role flexible is to split it and you may be surprised to hear that most Scouting roles can be shared. The important thing to do is work out how best to share it; do the volunteers want to divvy it up in terms of either time or interests?

Consider the availability, strengths and skills of your volunteers. Take, for instance, the section leader role and three willing volunteers who cannot commit to an evening every week.

Every three weeks, they could each take responsibility for the meeting. Alternatively, they could take a task-based approach; one leader could be responsible for programme planning, one for record keeping and one for communication. Make sure theyre all absolutely clear who will do what and, crucially, that other volunteers who will be working with them also understand how the role share will function too.

RAINBOW OF ROLES

I can help every now and then DID YOU KNOW? The breadth of volunteer roles available in Scouting is huge. Of our 100k+ adult membership, 76% are not Group or section leaders and 32% do not volunteer directly with young people.

IKEAUsually furniture store staff wouldnt take too kindly to customers having a nap on the beds, but at IKEA in Bristol they made an exception. Twenty Explorers from Sharman ESU had use of the store for a night during which they tried out all of the display beds, played hide and seek and raced office chairs around the showroom.

A highlight of the night was the unique opportunity to invest seven Explorers in one of the beds! Kevin Watson, Explorer Scout Leader

Quirky campsWe asked you for your most leftfield camp experiences and you didnt disappoint. These unusual Scout stays make nights under canvas seem comparatively tame

OUT THERE

SubmarineAs the last British Second World War submarine in the world, HMS Alliance was an atmospheric location for First Park Gate Sea Scouts to stay the night. First they watched a film projected on to a white bed sheet, as submariners traditionally used to do. Then they practised their first aid skills on two injured sailors roles ably performed by Sea Scouts. An ex-submariner told them about what life was like on the high seas and taught them some seafaring lingo.

This is the first time young people have been able to stay on board a UK submarine and only the second time the Royal Navy Submarine Museum has had anyone staying on board! Roger Marsh, Acting Cub Scout Leader

Point Layar here to see more photos from your unusual stays!


Sleep out for the homeless 1st Harpenden Scouts braved freezing February temperatures to raise funds and awareness for local charity Herts Young Homeless by sleeping in shelters in the local church car park.

Frost formed on the outside of my sleeping bag it was an interesting way to celebrate my birthday! Steve Cast, Scout Leader

Catalyst Science Discovery CentreA ride in a glass elevator to the top of a four-storey tower was an exciting start to 28th Warrington Wests sleepover. They bedded down for the night, overlooking the endless vista of the Pennines. As part of their stay at Catalyst, an interactive

centre dedicated to chemistry, they completed a science trail and made a handy key ring to take home.

I overheard one very excited Beaver shout DAD! Dad, we are going to sleep all the way up there on the top of the building.

Cecilia Frodsham, Beaver Leader

SCOUT ACTIVITY CENTRES

IglooAberdeen Network experienced life in the freezer when they spent a night

in an igloo at Daviot Campsite, near Inverurie in north-east Scotland. Six Network members took seven hours to carefully build the igloo, fondly nicknamed the Cold Beast. To ensure it would stand up to the freezing January weather, they moulded snow into blocks using plastic boxes, then

stacked the blocks one on top of the other and filled small gaps with loose snow.

Hellfire CavesIt takes some plucky Cubs to stay overnight at Hellfire Caves in Buckinghamshire, and 1st Watton at Stone Cubs were the youngest people ever to stay in the haunted man- made caves.

It was gone midnight by the time the excited Cubs settled down and the lights were turned out. David Smith, Cub Scout Leader

OUT THERE

It wasnt as cold as youd think the igloo really does protect you from the wind. It stayed up all night so we were quite impressed. Id love to do it again. Brigit Belden, Network Member

Share your storyHave you got an unusual overnight experience to rival these? Its easy to leave a comment at scouts.org.uk/magazine or email [email protected].

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Advice and know-how to inspire and inform

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More info Find out about setting up a youth forum at scouts.org.uk/youthinvolvement.

Assistant Scout Leader, County Adviser and student Alex Fogg talks about the importance of giving young people a voice in Scouting

Empowering young people is the most important thing to do

stop me. Ive had bad seizures during Scout activities, but came back [from hospital] and carried on.

I use my personal experience at Scouts. My epilepsy provides a good teaching tool when doing first aid. If someone tells you about an illness from their own experiences, it hits home and they remember what to do.

I was recently nominated for the Cambridgeshire Young Person of the Year award by my GSL. It was mainly for my work with Scouts in the Gambia, where I went on two expeditions to teach first aid to local communities, and also worked with St John Ambulances medical team.

If Id left Scouting behind after Explorers, it wouldve felt wrong. Ive had some brilliant times and wanted to give something back. B-P said Leave the world a little better than you found it, which is a big thing for me to do.

Alex draws on his personal experiences to teach younger Scouts and give something back

Ijoined Scouting as a Beaver and am now a County Adviser in Cambridgeshire. Im also on the County Executive Committee and am studying adventure tourism and countryside management at the University of Derby.

My roles are di!erent but they all have young people at their heart. As a County Adviser I look at what young people want out of Scouting and how we can develop it. If they have a good idea, they have someone to tell.

I think empowering young people is probably the most important thing The Scout Association can do. We need to know what the young people want, or we wont grow and move forward.

Ive been involved in a County Youth Forum to get young people exchanging ideas. Weve also been to many County events to speak to both young people and adults.

If you let a medical condition rule how you live your life, then youve lost your life. I was diagnosed with epilepsy this year, but I wont let it

VOLUNTEER IN PROFILE

Got a niggling Scout query? Our panel of experts are here to help

What can our Group do to prevent damage to our HQ over the winter?Gillian Peyton, ACSL

Ralph Doe, Unity Liability and Insurance Adviser says: Each winter Unity (Scout Insurance Services)

deals with many claims for damage to Scout buildings. From our experience, regular inspections help prevent damage. Reduce the risk of burst pipes by checking the insulation on your pipes and water tank. If your HQ will be unoccupied for some time, drain and shut off your water system. Keep gutters and drains clear by regularly checking for blockages. If obstructions occur, the build-up of water will eventually cause damage. Check your roof for loose or missing tiles. Putting back a tile is much cheaper than repairing roof timbers. For more information check scoutinsurance.co.uk/winter_risks.html.

Do the old-style minibus permits need to be replaced? Jon Ladd, Assistant Cub Scout Leader

Paula Robinson, Scout Information Centre Adviser says: Yes, on 6 April 2014 the old-style minibus permits (without an expiry date) will

expire, and youll need to purchase a new minibus permit. The Scout Information Centre has been sending out reminders about this. The new permits begin with SP0 and show an expiry date. If you need to apply for one, email [email protected] or call 0845 300 1818.

Ive been asked to put safety on the agenda but what does that mean in practical terms? April Edwards, Group Scout Leader

Stuart Carter, Safety in Scouting Co-ordinator says: Being safe is something we all do instinctively. Leaders love a meeting and,

whether it is the Executive or Cub Leaders planning their programme, we should include safety. Planning the section programme allows us to talk about any areas that may include risk and how to eliminate, reduce or control it. Using a template to plan will help: a simple spreadsheet that covers

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How can I make the process of collecting

subs and completing my census smoother?Paula Tsang, Group Scout Leader

Steve Moysey, Appointments and Awards Manager at The Scout Association, says: Before you start, check what information is required for the census and plan how to collect it. This way you can gather all the information before entering it onto the system. Aim to complete the census as soon as possible, so any issues can be resolved in good time. The date of the census is 31 January, but prepare your figures ahead to allow for any changes.

Liz Craig, County Commissioner, Cambridgeshire says: 31 January neednt strike fear into the hearts of volunteers our census date is the same every year, and we can be prepared for it. Many Groups collect the fee as part of their monthly or termly subs, so its ready when the time comes.

Data collection can be made easier by asking new joiners for info such as dates of birth, ethnicity and additional needs; the datas then ready to hand.

Heather Quiney, Membership Secretary, 1st Bishops Stortford and Hockerill, says: We ask for fees to be paid before the new term starts, by cheque, electronic banking or via virginmoneygiving.com. If they pay a year upfront, parents get a discount. I produce personalised invoices and post them three weeks before deadline to avoid family holidays. Then I email reminders. My big tip is to get leaders on board to help chase parents.

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Over to you Do you have a query about Scouting, or experience you could share as a member of our reader panel? If the answer to either question is yes, email us at [email protected] with your questions and advice.

type of activity, allotted date and time, equipment needed, aim and method and whos responsible. This acts as a plan and a risk assessment at the same time. Talking about safety at Executive meetings will help focus the whole Group on the subject, particularly when it comes to buildings and equipment.

Were planning a survival camp in the colder weather. How can we stay warm in our natural shelters?Eddie Aynaw, Explorer Scout Leader

Ray Hutchinson, Assistant Explorer Scout Leader and founder of urbanbushcraft.co.uk says: Build fires with wooden

reflectors behind them to direct their warmth back into simple lean-to shelters. Determine which way the wind is blowing and build your camp

scouting december/january 2014

Documents

scouting magazine

scout volunteers

thrill of scouting

issue of scouting

scout association issn

word adventure

national magazine

young people