FAQ
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Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat checks are made for someone wanting to become a Leader or Helper?A 'check' is made on every person who wishes to work or come into contact with the young people in our charge. This is a strict procedure carried out by the national HQ, very much like a 'police check', except that the Scout Association procedure is actually more rigorous, it does not just pick up people with a criminal record but checks a database, maintained by HQ, which contains information from a wide variety of sources (e.g. local newspapers), this also includes seeking two local references. There is a 'yellow card' issued to all leaders entitled "Young People First". 
How can adults join Scouting? As an adult interested in the Scout Movement there are many ways that you can help. You can give as much or as little of your time as you choose. You can join Scouting in a number of ways - as a Scouter, a Helper, an Instructor, an Administrator, a Committee Member or a Supporter.
How much time will I have to spend? There is no accurate answer to this other than to say 'as much time as you can afford to give' although there are certain expectations with each position. There is no requirement for giving all your spare time, helpers and leaders give the time they can afford, some even job share, some may only be able to give time for a few hours a month, others may spend the equivalent of several days a week on Scouting. All help is valuable and the fact that you cannot give much time should not be a deterrent. It is however true that most people,once they start helping, enjoy it so much that they find themselves giving more time than they originally thought they would.
How much will Scouting cost me? Again there is no definitive answer to this question. Training is usually paid for by your group. Various items that you will use within your Scouting meetings will again be provided, but you may find that as your interest in Scouting develops you may end up building a personal collection of Scouting related items at your own expense.
Do I have to wear a uniform? Scouting is a uniformed organisation. Wearing the uniform is part of the ethos for young members and leaders. So, as a leader, you would be expected to wear a uniform for all formal events and meetings. Activities are usually carried out in clothes most suitable for the activity especially where safety is concerned. Helpers do not have to wear uniform.
Do I have to have been a Scout to become a Leader? No...you need not have any previous experience of Scouting. Of course previous experience of Scouting or working with young people will help you but it is not necessary. Training is provided for all leaders.
As a Scouter or Helper, do I have to have specialist skills? Specialist skills are useful but not necessary. Everyone brings their own skills to Scouting which may not be as dramatic or specialist in nature as Mountain Climbing or Canoeing but nevertheless contributes to the weekly meeting. Enthusiasm and commitment are just as important!
Do I have to have to like camping? Camping is an important part of of Scouting but not to everyone's taste. It is important that young people in Scouting have the opportunity to experience camping as part of the whole Scouting experience but usually there are sufficient people around to ensure these experiences can be provided. Camping does not automatically mean staying overnight in tents in remote fields and making your own 'facilities'. It can be at a purpose built centre in indoor accommodation, it may be taking Beavers on a day visit to a camp in progress, it may be taking part in a family camp where all members of the family are at camp for a weekend - there are many ways to experience camping and it is possible that you may end up liking camping.
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