Whether you are a Network Member, parent of a child in Scouting, or someone who is totally new to Scouting you’ve come to the right place!
One of the biggest myths about Scouting is that Groups are closing down due to a lack of young people wanting to become Members. Nothing could be further from the truth; in the UK there are over 500,000 people enjoying Scouting, over 6,200 of those are in Northamptonshire and around 1,100 in Grafton! Scouting is a growing Movement!
There are lots of ways you can get involved as a parent, from helping out occasionally on a parent rota to volunteering your time as a leader. Our volunteering opportunities are as varied as you! Because whether you’re helping a leader to run an activity in the local village hall, organising a night away, or buttering 120 slices of bread for a group of very hungry eleven year olds – no two Scout meetings are the same. The difference you make, though, is always great.
Why help?
There are many reasons why adults choose to volunteer for Scouting. Here are some that existing volunteers have given:
- To give something back to the community
- To support the Leaders
- Because volunteering is a ‘good thing’
- As an enabler, so the Leader can do more
- To spend more quality time with your child
- To develop your own skills and do something practical
- To enjoy and rediscover adventure for yourself
- To live a healthier more active lifestyle
What do Scouts do?
Sections usually meet on one evening during the week, although they may also go to camps and other days out throughout the year.
Whilst the activities they take part in will depend on their age, each Section gives young people the opportunity to learn by doing.
Leaders in The Scout Association are trained to deliver this programme, ensuring our young people stay safe while they enjoy themselves and learn.
Does every role have direct contact with young people?
The simple answer is no! Although every role has an impact on young people, you don’t have to work with them every week, or at all, as we have many behinds the scene roles such as admin support, training, welcoming new volunteers, building maintenance, charity trustees – the list goes on as there really is a role for everyone!
Where do you Scout?
Scouting can happen anywhere! Where you Scout really depends on how much time you can give. Within Grafton, there are 17 Scout Groups, supporting young people aged 6 to 14 years, and 4 Explorer Scout Units which work with young people aged 14 to 18 years. You can find your local Scout Group here. A lot of our volunteering roles can also be completed from home (or wherever you may be when you have a spare 5 minutes!) especially those with limited contact with young people.
