Scouting Safety

Young people thrive in safe surroundings. We’re committed to ensuring that Scouting is both enjoyable and safe for everyone who takes part, along with providing parents with peace of mind.

Appointing those who work with young people

All volunteers who help to run our activities give their time freely to help young people enjoy Scouting.

Leaders are interviewed locally and asked to provide references. Everyone working with young people in Scouting is asked to undertake a DBS, sometimes known as a ‘police check’.

Code of behaviour

We have a clear code of behaviour which is given to all adults working in Scouting, regardless of their role. This is also included in the training that leaders receive and offers advice about how young people should be treated. We expect everyone to follow it.

If you volunteer to help out with an activity, you’ll be given one too, and if you would like to see a copy of the code of behaviour for adults, just ask any of your child’s leaders or visit the safeguarding area of our national website.

Training

We expect all leaders to take courses in basic first aid and child protection. Special training is provided for those taking young people away on residential events like camps and sleepovers.

Outings and camps

Leaders will make parents aware of the programme for their section and in doing so will assume consent to participate if the young person attends the activity. For all camps leaders will give sufficient information and time for parents to consent to their child attending.

For all Scouting activities you will be provided with a method of contacting the group, either during their regular meeting or whilst away at camp.

We will never ask to take individual young people away on their own or without another adult being present.

What to do if you have concerns

If you are unhappy with anything relating to your child’s time in Scouting you should raise it with your child’s leaders. If you would rather speak to someone else, please contact Craig Kidd, District Commisioner via email or the Scout Information Centre on 0345 300 1818.

The Scout Association also has a complaints procedure

For more information view our Safe and Sound leaflet for parents.