When Scouting is at its most successful, it is often because of the skill, commitment and ability of the adults involved.
That is why the appointment of adults into appropriate roles is one of the most important responsibilities in Scouting. To help us do this we have a simple appointments process which is made up of three stages, these are:
Stage 1: Application
During the application stage you will have a discussion with your lead volunteer, e.g. Group Scout Leader (GSL) or District Explorer Scout Commissioner (DESC) as to what tasks / role you would like to do, what skills you would like to use, and how much time you are able to commit. We are keen to ensure that you are happy with the role/ tasks you are going to undertake and that you are not overstretching yourself in terms of time.
Your Manager will talk you through the training for the role you have agreed and how the appointments process works. You will also receive information on Safeguarding and a copy of the Yellow Card.
Once you have completed an Adult information form and a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service), your details will be put onto our volunteer database (Compass) and you will move to the next stage.
Stage 2: Approval
Route A: for all roles (except Executive Committee members, Administrators & Scout Active Support members).
Once we have received your cleared DBS check and references we will invite you to a short meeting with our Appointments Advisory Committee. The purpose of this is for the panel members to ensure that all adults applying for a role in Scouting are suitable for the appointment and understand the role/ tasks and training for which they are agreeing.
What will happen at the meeting?
Firstly, it’s nothing to worry about! The meeting will be with three experienced volunteer members of Scouting in your area and will last around 30 minutes. They will ask you questions to find out if you are aware of the values and policies of The Scout Association and that you understand the requirements of the role to which you have agreed. The committee make a recommendation on your appointment to the District Commissioner. As soon as possible thereafter, you will receive notification of the decision.
Route B: for Executive Committee members, Administrators and Scout Active Support members
For Executive Committee members:
Your Scout Council (normally at the Annual General Meeting), will approve your election or nomination.
For co-opted members of Executive Committees or Administrators: Your Executive committee will approve your appointment.
For members of Scout Active Support:
Your Scout Active Support Manager will approve your appointment.
A list of the adult roles that do or do not need to attend a meeting with the appropriate Appointments Advisory Committee can be found in the appointments process section of the current edition of The Policy, Organisation and Rules (PO&R) of The Scout Association. This can be found at: www.scouts.org.uk/por
Stage 3: Appointment
Once your role has been approved (using route A or B), you will then move to the appointment stage of the process. At this point, your induction will start, you will meet your induction mentor, complete your Getting Started induction training and learn more about training opportunities and ongoing learning. At the end of this stage (within 5 months) you should have completed the process and be ready to fully take on your role with support and guidance from your Group/Unit.
