Scouting June July 2010 by The Scout Association

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SCOUTING Scouting Editors: Chris James, Hilary Galloway, Elis Matthews and Dave O’Carroll Production Controller: Rose Wells The national magazine of The Scout Association ISSN 0036 – 9489 © 2010 The Scout Association Registered Charity Numbers 306101 (England and Wales) and SC038437 (Scotland) Published by: The Scout Association Gilwell House, Gilwell Park, Chingford, London E4 7QW Tel: 0845 300 1818 Fax: 020 8433 7103 Email: scouting.magazine@scouts.org.uk Website: www.scouts.org.uk/magazine Contributions to: scouting.magazine@scouts.org.uk Please note that the views expressed by members and contributors in the magazine are not necessarily those of The Scout Association. Publishing Management: Think Publishing Ltd, The Pall Mall Deposit, 124-128 Barlby Road, London W10 6BL Sub-Editors: Rica Dearman, Mary Cooch and Marion Thompson Art Director: Ian Hart ADVERTISING Sales Executive: Richard Ellacott richard.ellacott@thinkpublishing.co.uk Tel: 020 8962 1250 Printed and distributed by: Headley Brothers Ltd Printed on 100% recycled paper

CONTRIBUTORS NGAIRE TAKANO is a consultant on sustainability and environmental issues, she is also a Group Scout Leader. Read her new Eco column on page 49. DAWUD WHARSNBY splits his time between Pakistan, North America and England, delivering creative programmes to empower young people. Read about his life on page 41. Cover photo: Jemma Cox

KEEPING YOUR

PROMISE

In my last Chief Scout letter I promised to go through, one by one, the seven principles of Scouting based on those of our Founder, Lord Baden-Powell. Can you remember my mnemonic? Ten Little Fat Fingers Caught The Rat! So here we go. Ten... and the T is for Trustworthy. But what does that really mean? It means you are the sort of person who keeps their promises. If you say you are going to do something, then do it. Words are power, and people come to know us by the words we speak. So be a Scout who is trustworthy and keeps their word. Don’t deal in lies; be someone people can rely on. And that includes keeping secrets: don’t be a blabbermouth. Look at the other words that link to trustworthy: loyal, faithful, honourable and true. These are all Scouting traits, and ones that we can develop in ourselves. Remember: your character is made up of the everyday decisions you make. So take this first principle and pin it to your chest. It will serve you well in life. Next issue we deal with L… any guesses?

LOG ON – DON’T MISS OUT If you have moved house, want to change your section supplement or amend your personal details, you can update with a click of the mouse: • Sign up at www.scouts.org.uk – you only need to do this once. You will need your unique membership number to hand (this can be found on the address sheet that comes with Scouting magazine) • Log on • Update your details and anyone else’s you are line manager for • Logging on today also means you can access Programmes Online, the revolutionary programme planner!

Bear Grylls, Chief Scout

Three things to do this issue

1 Visit the brand-new communications centre www.scouts.org.uk/brand

2 Please check your email address is correct on your

membership record www.scouts.org.uk 3 Find us on Facebook Search ‘The Scout Association’ 90,571 average circulation from 1 Jan to 31 Dec 2009

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Contents

48 FEATURES REGULARS 11 MAILBOX 13 IN BRIEF | What Scouts have been up to 14 NEWS | Events, campaigns and updates 33 CAMP COOKING | A sweet treat from Annabel Karmel 52 IN FOCUS | Scouting in Avon is thriving 61 COUNTRY DIARY | Discover the joy of growing veg 62 FAITHS & BELIEFS | Introducing a new resource 68 SCOUT SHOPS | Fantastic products for camp 70 HEALTH & WELLBEING | Staying safe in the sun 81 ROUND OUR PLACE | 1st Heage Scout Group grow their own 82 FIVE MILES WITH… THE NATURAL NAVIGATOR | Tristan Gooley on navigating without instruments

22 ON THE UP! | Scouting has recorded huge growth 29 DOES VOLUNTEERING MAKE FOR A BETTER LIFE? | A debate over volunteering 31 SPICE UP YOUR BIG BARBECUE | More delicious recipes for Active Kids 34 TAKE PRIDE | Scouting’s involvement in Pride London 2010 38 WHAT HAPPENED NEXT? | How to recruit parents who helped on your Big Adventure 41 GLOBAL CITIZEN | A glimpse into the life of Dawud Wharnsby 42 CAMPFIRE’S BURNING | How to keep young people entertained during camp

46 TOGETHER WE’RE BETTER | Using teamwork gets the best results 48 LOOKOUT TOWER | Test your skills and build this platform 50 TWO-WHEEL ADVENTURES | Cycling: the third instalment in our series on Scouting skills 57 SCOUT ACTIVE SUPPORT | From leadership to support 58 PEOPLE – GET READY! | The Vetting and Barring Scheme 64 ALL SET FOR SWEDEN 2011 | Preparing for the 22nd World Scout Jamboree 66 HOW INSURANCE WORKS IN SCOUTING | 20 questions answered

CONTENTS OPINION

7 TEENAGE FANCLUB | UK Chief Commissioner Wayne Bulpitt on the boost in teenage membership

PARTNERSHIPS 72 PROMOS & RESOURCES

IN THE SUPPLEMENTS RISE TO THE CHALLENGE A new resource on spiritual development | BEAVERS How

a failing Colony was transformed and crafts for the eco-conscious | CUBS Taking Cub Packs abroad and shelter building | SCOUTS The importance of consistent training, an active citizen programme and the Global Challenge | EXPLORERS Celebrating a year of growth and going slow with a narrow boat | NETWORK Are Scouting skills abandoned? Plus events and the open university | FOCUS Flexible volunteering, plus a look at some international festivals

All available at scouts.org.uk/magazine

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Opinion

from the blog

SUPPORTING ADULTS IN SCOUTING

I explained how I took part in a round-table discussion with ten Scouting volunteers and staff with a variety of roles to explore and debate how we might better support adults in Scouting. I liked the idea of a professional HR team to support the recruitment, appointment, induction and training processes – it would be a real help. S Smith

TEENAGE FANCLUB

You may have already heard the fabulous news of our continued growth in membership, up 3.45 per cent to within a whisker of 500,000, says UK Chief Commissioner Wayne Bulpitt. However, one statistic keeps being challenged…

ithout exception, the media is surprised to learn that our teenage membership has increased by 26 per cent since 2001 – and 5.4 per cent in the past year. Surely, they say, teenagers don’t do things like Scouting any more…? Well, they certainly do, and Grace Denny, an Explorer Scout from London, summed it up when she said: ‘Scouting’s awesome. I love being involved. You get to do so

A PARENT’S PERSPECTIVE

I also shared (with no little pride) some of my daughter’s adventures on her Explorer Scout expedition, which elicited this response: To really benefit from this award, participants need to get into the culture of the country they are visiting, and the key to that is the special cloth we wear around our necks, held together by a woggle or friendship knot. Could any other organisation achieve this? Steve

many amazing activities that you just wouldn’t get to do anywhere else.’ So why the increase in teenage Members? Is Scouting becoming more relevant? I can’t help but think that a big factor was the changes we made a few years ago with the creation of the Explorer and Scout Network sections. These seem to help leaders provide teenagers with programmes better suited to their age. While the Scout changes in particular caused some challenges

for leaders, who would lose their most experienced Patrol Leaders earlier, other opportunities, such as the Young Leaders’ Scheme, have more than compensated. Planning for success Coping with change is never easy, and we could still manage it better in some cases, but booming teenage membership suggests that this is another of those changes that was certainly worth implementing. Remember, success breeds success.

get in touch

Email Wayne at ukcc@scouts.org.uk or write to him at The Scout Association, Gilwell Park, Chingford, London E4 7QW; catch up with his blog at www.scouts.org.uk/ccblog

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8 Scouting April/ May 2010

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Mailbox Email us at scouting.magazine@scouts.org.uk or write to Scouting magazine, Gilwell Park, Chingford, London E4 7QW

STAR LETTER

mailbox Scouts across the water

The ban on flights due to the volcano ash left us as a family stranded in the US. We managed to find a close American Scout Group to visit and share stories on English and American Scouting. Becky is an Explorer with Dragon Explorers, Joe a Scout and I am a Cub Leader. We had an amazing time and will continue to keep in contact. Liz 1st Lower Halstow Scouts

Mind the (age) gap Many thanks for my new membership card. I am Chairman of the All Saints’ Scout Group in Cheltenham and we are celebrating our Centenary this year. I joined the Movement as a Wolf Cub in 1925 and became a Scout in 1929. I spent seven years in the army and kept up my Scouting role as much as I could. On return to Civvy Street in 1948, I became Scout Leader and then Group Scoutmaster until 1982. I am now 93 years old and rather curious to find out if this is a record in Scouting. Jack Dowen Chairman, All Saints’ Scout Group Response from Wayne Bulpitt, UK Chief Commissioner It was such a pleasure receiving your letter and I only hope that I am at least half as active as you are at your age. You are clearly an inspiration to us all. It is not easy to tell from our records how much competition you have as the longest-serving active Member. Good luck and best wishes to everyone at All Saints’ Scout Group as you celebrate your Centenary.

The writer of the star letter will receive a copy of A Complete Guide to Scouting Skills, also available from www.scouts.org.uk/shop

We then received this letter After many years working his way up through Scouting, Charles Wilbud was a founder Member of the Newport Scout Fellowship. His wife Connie, son, daughters and their wife and husbands, and three grandsons followed him into the Movement. Charles is still active as President at 94 years old and now his great-grandson, Rhys, aged seven, has become a Beaver Scout, carrying on the Scouting commitment in the family. Christine Symonds ACSL 24th Newport Scout Group www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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In brief

A glimpse into the lives of Scouting Members

In brief CHANGE TO GREEN

Matt, an Explorer Scout from Manchester, talks us through the Scout climate campaign

’I was inspired to begin a Scout campaign on climate change after attending the post-Copenhagen press conference with the Scout Young Campaigners group in December last year. I brought in Thom and James from Ayers Explorer Scouts, plus Jake from my own Merlin Explorers. ‘We’ve already met with John Kentish, head of schools and youth campaigning at Oxfam, who has agreed to support us and help with our brand and materials. We’ve also established links with the UK Youth Climate Coalition. ‘I think this is the biggest issue facing us all at the moment. If we allow global warming to continue now, it will be too late to do anything when it really does start affecting us with sea levels rising and such. We must act now, if for no other reason than to ensure the continued existence of Scouting all over the world. ‘We will be formally launching our campaign and naming it in the next few weeks, so look out for that.’ Get involved To help out with the campaign, contact our Public Affairs team at citizen@scouts.org.uk

How to survive summer camp

Time out For everyone’s sanity, make sure all leaders, helpers and young people have some time out in the schedule.

A once-a-day suntan lotion Riemann P20 offers ten hours of sun protection, perfect for Cub camp. Get all your Cubs together in the morning and ask them to apply. Sunburn shouldn’t be an option. (Turn to page 70 for more.)

Campfire Nothing bonds campers like a campfire. It can

give even the most tired Scout a lift. (Turn to page 42 for more.)

Camp chairs As much as we love sitting on damp ground, a camp chair, with a cup holder, can be the difference between a happy and unhappy camper.

Water carriers Keep water carriers filled with juice or water and placed in activity areas for easy access at any time during the day.

What’s on your mind right now? ‘Turning 13 and becoming a teenager’ – Sean ‘Making sure the people close to me are safe’ – Ben ‘Going into 3rd year’ – Tom ‘My family and my schoolwork (or so Mum says)’ – KJ

What’s your next adventure?

‘Representing my District in the National Camping Competition’ – Sean ‘Becoming an Assistant Patrol Leader’ – Rachel ‘My Gold DofE expedition’ – KJ ‘Sleeping outside with no tent and watching the stars’ – Zoë

THROUGH A BEAVER’S EYES

The St George’s Day parade in Burton-on-Trent was a proud day for all involved, including one Beaver Scout who, having attended last year, was keen that his fellow Beavers should get the most out of the experience. With this in mind, as they approached the Town Hall, he announced to all around that they would soon be passing the Mayor and his wives! A career in investigative journalism surely awaits. www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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Events, updates and news from around the UK

news Brownsea book launch

Brownsea Island was the perfect venue to launch the new outdoor skills handbook, A Complete Guide to Scouting Skills. The BBC Breakfast programme sent a camera crew to film Scouts putting some of the skills into practice. With an introduction by Chief Scout Bear Grylls, this book contains over 200 pages of useful advice for beginners and experts alike. Published by Doubleday, the book is available from www.scouts.org.uk/shop

The BBC camera crew at the launch on Brownsea Island

Double the honour

Prince Charles chats to some of the new Queen’s Scouts

It was a first for both the Prince of Wales and the Chief Scout when they attended Windsor Castle to honour 350 new Queen’s Scouts. Bear Grylls greeted Prince Charles before they chatted to the recipients. All had received the highest honour in Scouting by completing a series of tasks, including service to their community, an expedition, a residential project and learning or developing a skill. Bear was impressed by the spirit of the Queen’s Scouts. ‘All these young people have lived the adventure of a lifetime,‘ he said. ‘They are a huge inspiration to other Scouts in the UK. They are amazing.’ Several Gallantry Award recipients were also honoured on the day for their outstanding bravery.

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News

Want more? Visit www.scouts.org.uk/news

I, spy

Did you know Baden-Powell was once a secret agent? Crimson Cats Audio Books is offering readers of Scouting magazine a saving on My Adventures as a Spy, Baden-Powell’s record of his espionage operations between the 1880s and the outbreak of World War I. The price of £8.49 (plus £1.75 p&p) is a saving of £1.50. Visit: www.crimsoncats.co.uk/ scoutingoffer.htm or phone 01379 854888 and quote ‘Offer SCA010’.

Cave rescue

DISCOUNT FOR YOUNG LEARNERS

Young people are being encouraged to learn basic driving skills and road awareness. Young Driver teaches those aged 11 to 16 good road sense in a controlled, safe environment, with approved driving instructors. There are three venues in England at present, with another six set to open this year, and Scouts can receive a 20 per cent discount off their first lesson. Visit www. youngdriver.eu for more.

The first active cave rescue team in the world celebrates its 75th anniversary this year, beginning on 5 June with an Open Day, a rescue river race, an all-day barbecue and demonstrations. The sponsored Three Peaks Challenge fundraising event takes place on 7 August. The Cave Rescue Organisation (CRO), based in the Yorkshire Dales, has attended more than 2,200 incidents involving 3,320 people. It depends on experienced volunteer cavers, climbers and walkers who are on call every day and night. Visit www.cro.org.uk for more information.

Peter Duncan – the movie! THE BARE BONES OF IT

Our bones are alive and growing and need looking after – that’s the key message for young people from the National Osteoporosis Society. Adopting a healthy lifestyle at an early age is important and their free resource pack is full of ideas on exercise, diet and activities. To order a copy, visit www.bones4life.org

A new 108-minute film celebrating Peter Duncan’s five years as Chief Scout has been released. With footage of Peter during Scouting’s Centenary year, at the 21st World Scout Jamboree, and his Everest adventure with Explorer Scouts, it is an action-packed souvenir. It also contains the last recorded interview with Sir Edmund Hillary. The DVD is available from www. scouts.org.uk/shop for £9.99. www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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Events, updates and news from around the UK

April/May Scouting magazine

We realise some Members received their copy of the last issue up to a week after publication date. Please accept our apologies for the delay, which was due to a problem at the mailing house and should not affect delivery of future issues.

Here comes the summer

Fancy attending the Mad Hatterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tea party? How about a minibeast safari or a family ghost tour? These are some of the many adventures taking place this summer at National Trust properties in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Get crafty in an enchanted garden, explore spooky ruins or make a mini scarecrow. Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk for details.

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News

Want more? Visit www.scouts.org.uk/news

Nights Away

Spending nights away from home is central to the Scouting experience. The new and improved Nights Away has everything you need to run a successful residential experience for all ages in Scouting. With chapters on health, budgeting, catering, choosing your venue and even running your daily activities, you’ll wonder how you managed camp without it. The light and compact format means it’s easy to keep in your rucksack. www. scouts.org.uk/shop

ADVENTURE ISLAND FIXES IT

The 5th Canvey Island Air Scouts decided it was time to recreate the famous Jim’ll Fix It clip of Scouts eating lunch on a roller coaster. Heading off to Southend with sausages, crisps, cola and beans on toast, they jumped on the ominously named Green Scream. Luckily, it was only the roller coaster that was green come the end of the ride.

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Events, updates and news from around the UK

Guides’ Centenary

‘Here come the Girl Guides’ is an exhibition focusing on the Guiding Movement in London since the Girl Guides Association was formed in 1910. The exhibition, which opens on 26 June at the Museum of London, Docklands, forms part of the Girlguiding UK Centenary celebrations and includes photographs, film footage and personal stories. Visit www. museumoflondon.org.uk for information.

No river too deep

Being presented with the Chief Scout’s Gold Award is a great achievement for any Scout, but for John of the Blenheim (Icknield) Luton Scout Group, it’s an even greater accolade. Being disabled has not deterred John from being an active Member of the Troop. Some of the activities were modified, but John was determined to overcome each challenge and be given the Award. Challenges included taking part in a rafting activity, taking control of a light aircraft and cycling on a specially adapted bike. Having already gained the Chief Scout’s Bronze and Silver Awards, John is looking forward to becoming an Explorer Scout.

Thank you from Sport Relief

Scouts across the UK teamed up with Sport Relief between 19 and 21 March, challenging themselves to do something sporty to raise money. Overall, Sport Relief raised more than £31m to help transform the lives of poor and vulnerable people in the UK and across the world’s poorest countries. Scouts of all ages took part in the Sainsbury’s Sport Relief mile, but for the 7th West Wick Group and the 5th Elgin (New Elgin) Cubs, that was too simple – they ran a three-legged mile instead. The Lingfield & Dormansland Cubs incorporated their fundraising efforts with the Fitness Challenge. In Kirkcaldy, the Cubs of the 14th Fife made up their own games, then paid £2 for the privilege of playing them, which counted towards the Creative Challenge Badge.

Short-term investment service

Monthly rate after deduction of Management Commission: April 2010

0.020%

0.520%

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

More than just a zoo Discover 7,000 animals with 400 species at Chester Zoo – from meerkats and penguins to elephants and tigers. Over a million visitors already know what there is to enjoy in the 110 acres of awardwinning gardens where there’s so much to see and do, both indoors and out.

360° Scouting

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News

Want more? Visit www.scouts.org.uk/news

A feast of ideas

The Big Lunch project would like you to share your Sunday lunch with your neighbours on 18 July. The initiative – which originates from the Eden Project, alongside other organisations – aims to bring people together to strengthen their communities. Scout Groups could help organise Big Lunch street parties or host their own, and this could be a good opportunity for recruitment. The website, www.thebiglunch. com offers ideas for Groups to be involved in, creative activities and even grow their own lunch.

New support for local Scouting

The first Mark Masonry Lodge for the support of Scouting has been formed. Members of local Scout Counties will be invited to meetings held by The Scout Lodge of Mark Master Masons No 1,907 in various locations in England and Wales. Masonic leaders will offer support to help local Scout Groups with their future plans. Contact Tony Harvey at liaison@KindredLodges. org.uk for further information.

a guide to scouts.org.uk

Biodiversity in action

The International Year of Biodiversity celebrates the diversity of plants, animals and micro-organisms. Whether you’re helping save the British dormouse or birdwatching with the RSPB, there’s a host of exciting events and activities where you can get involved. You can even join in a local bat walk with the Bat Conservation Trust – visit www.bats.org.uk for details on this or to browse the dedicated young people’s section. Meanwhile, the Open Air Laboratories Network (www.opalexplorenature.org) offers survey packs to help you get involved. Visit www.biodiversityislife. net and join in.

/a-z the starting point for adventurous activities /brand a template system to support your communications /ccblog keep up to date with the UK Chief Commissioner /digin details of the BBC campaign /insurance specialist insurance /join how to join Scouting /magazine issues and supplements /por policy organisation and rules /sac details of this year’s Scout Activity Centres /shop resources, equipment and uniform /thebigadventure recruit new volunteers

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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News

UPDATES

Keep up to speed with the latest changes to factsheets, new resources and policy news

Vetting and barring scheme

Changes to the criminal records checking scheme in England and Wales come into effect on 26 July 2010. As a result, there are several updates to the forms and processes used to check adults in Scouting, including an electronic application process. For full information, see the article on page 58.

Updated factsheets

New factsheets

FS155068 | Planning an Outing replaces FS155052 and FS170057 FS500017 | Design and Deliver an Effective Recruitment Event For more, visit www.scouts.org.uk/ recentupdates

Are you receiving our @ weekly emails?

Scouting magazine is every two months, but the weekly Scouting+ emailer means you will have your finger on the Scouting pulse. More than 50,000 receive it every week, but there are 4,000 of you who have signed up to it, but have given us an email address that doesn’t work. If you think that could be you, sign on to the Membership Database at www.scouts.org.uk and check your personal details. You’ll never know what you’re missing out on.

Winners! Congratulations to

the winners of our recent competition. They are: Circus equipment: Simon Jarvis from Cheltenham. Africa DVD: Peter Barker, Tudor Bell, Mrs G Bench, Sandy Binks, Graham Edmunds, Rachel Jennings, Anna O’Leary, John Sankey, Steven Scandrett and John Tydda.

Want more? Visit www.scouts.org.uk/news

Houlding out for a hero

One of the world’s leading rock climbers was the inspiration behind the name of a newly formed Explorer Unit. Leo Houlding was happy to say yes when the Weymouth & Portland based Explorers asked for permission to use his name. He arranged for the Unit to have tickets to The Outdoors Show where they met and presented him with their Unit badge. ‘Leo is a total gentleman,’ said Explorer Scout Leader Chris, ‘a really cool dude.’

Jeka’s holiday giveaway

Jeka Holidays celebrated its 50th anniversary by giving away 100 free places on a 2010 Jeka Summer Camp. Twenty winning Groups each collected five free places for their Group holiday. The draw, which took place at Baden-Powell House, was attended by Nicola Short, Theo Cruysberghs, Shaun Taylor and Christine Hadley from Jeka, as well as Nigel Hailey and Christine Jones from The Scout Association.

Free computers

The Home Access programme is designed to ensure young people in low-income families are able to have the benefit of computer technology. You can find all the information you need at www.homeaccess4.me

Creative Christmas

We’re inviting young people to design a Scout Christmas Card. The best may go forward to be sold in Scout Shops this Christmas, and each winning entrant gets a copy of A Complete Guide to Scouting Skills. Send cards to Christmas Card Competition, The Scout Association, Gilwell Park, London E4 7QW by 16 July. We cannot return entries and by entering the competition you agree for the designs to be used to raise money for Scouting. www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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ON THE UP! Beavers

Cubs

4.6%

1.6%

s Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s official, Scouting ha t es gg recorded its single bi 72 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; annual growth since 19 ite Qu l. 3.45 per cent overal e apart from this being th of ar fifth consecutive ye a growth, the big story is e th in whopping increase number of teenagers in seeks Scouting. Chris James have out some of those who en pp ha made this success

Scouts

3.8%

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Membership growth

t’s 1972, and the nation’s teenagers are listening to the sound of David Bowie’s alter ego, Ziggy Stardust, and – perhaps less forgivably – The Osmonds, and The Godfather is filling cinemas. These are small consolations perhaps for the industrial unrest across the country and the impending gloom of the three-day week. For Scouting, it’s a rosier picture. A forward-thinking Chief Scout, Sir William Gladstone, who had a special interest in developing Scouting in inner-city areas and housing estates, is appointed. Some 21,000 people aged 16 to 21 are enjoying Scouting,

Explorers

8.5%

which, according to a 1972 Scouting magazine, offers ‘a wide variety of activities and experience to the young adult whose idea of life stretches wider than the television screen and is keen to seek adventure’. Fast-forward to 2010 and Scouting has recorded its biggest growth since then. Much has changed – perhaps most significantly, the 60,000 girls who now make up 15 per cent of our youth membership. But what young people want from Scouting – excitement, challenge, adventure – remains the same. So too is the need for Scouting in less-advantaged areas. But who and what is driving this success?

Network

11.3%

Adult volunteers

4.1%

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‘It’s about being positive about what we do. If we show young people what we offer, they just go for it’ Alan Hands, District Commissioner, East London

Year-on-year grow th 5 % Growth

4 3 2

2010

2009

2008

2007

2006

Why is Scouting growing? Looking across all of the stories that are coming in, the following trends are emerging as drivers for growth: Flexible volunteering Better joining systems Inspiring leadership at every level Extending our provision to new communities Better training and induction Thinking differently Good-quality programmes for young people A more relevant programme for teenagers Positive local and national coverage Being clear about who we are, what we do and where we are going.

Alex and Grace (pictured with Wayne Bulpitt) became overnight media stars

ross the UK Grow th story breaks ac by Chris Foster The news of the highest growth in nearly 40 years broke on Monday 19 April and almost every newspaper, radio and TV station took up the story. The UK Chief Commissioner, Wayne Bulpitt, spearheaded the media coverage, and he was assisted by two dynamic Enfieldbased Explorer Scouts, Alex and Grace, both 16. They arrived at Gilwell Park early on Sunday afternoon, after contributing to stories for several of Monday’s national newspapers including The Times, The Daily Telegraph, The Daily Mail, The Daily Express and Metro. They also did some pre-recorded pieces for Sky Radio. Bright and early on the Monday morning they commenced a long day’s work, starring in a variety of regional and local radio news segments. They were so good on one show, the producer asked them to return later in the week.

At lunchtime, they were whisked off to the BBC’s Television Centre, for a live broadcast for BBC London’s lunchtime news. Then it was back to Gilwell, and back to the ‘studio’ (the converted Chief Scout’s office) to carry out more radio requests. These included two national heavyweights, 5 Live Drive and Radio 4’s The World Tonight, which between them command several million listeners.

The teenage phenomenon With multi-channel TV, internet, games and digital media, and better travel opportunities, it is perhaps surprising that Scouting’s strongest growth area is among teenagers. There are now more than 66,000 teenagers involved, 26 per cent up on 2001 before the introduction of the Explorer and Network age ranges. So what do teenagers see in Scouting?

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Membership growth

Positive thinking in East London

‘I’m in Scouting for the varied activities,’ says Grace. ‘It gives me something different to look forward to in my everyday week. I camped on Brownsea Island, the birthplace of Scouting, last year. We built our own bivouacs in the rain and slept in them overnight. It was an amazing experience. I think my friends are quite jealous about what I get to do.’ ‘I’ve made loads of new friends in Scouting,’ says Alex. ‘It’s given me lots of opportunities including a chance to take part in Monopoly Run 2010. We camped overnight at Frith Grange in Barnet. Then in the morning we were given a Monopoly board. We had to get around every square in the real city of London and take a photo to prove we were there.’

There are now more than g, tin 66,000 teenagers in Scou 26 per cent up on 2001

Alan Hands is District Commissioner for East London, an area that has recorded exceptional growth. His District has 35 new leaders and is the third-fastest-growing in the UK. He knows all too well the challenges of Scouting in our inner cities. ‘I grew up in a 26-storey tower block in the area and know what a difference Scouting can make if you’re a ten-yearold with nowhere to play and not much money,’ he says. ‘These are difficult areas to provide youth services in – there’s a lack of meeting places and some parents will pay £5 to rent a DVD but not for a Scout handbook.’ Alan attributes the turnaround in fortunes to strategic focus, dedicated leadership, positive thinking and innovation. ‘Shout from the rooftops about your successes,’ he says. ‘You’ll notice the difference immediately. I send an email to all Groups, sharing good news and the District feels much more of a family – it’s a positive place to be in. Within this supportive environment, the District has grown in every direction. In its ethnic membership alone, the District has seen a massive increase from nine per cent to 34 per cent. It’s within the Groups and sections themselves, however, that the biggest turnaround has been seen. ‘When I first came to the District, there was one Cub Pack with three members,’ says Alan. ‘They were using traffic cones to make up the numbers, so they could play games.’ Alan has thought about different ways to open and operate Groups, including two that open at the weekend, and two that are sponsored by a housing association which also provides the leaders. Other smaller innovations also played their part, such as not charging leaders for their training or young people for badges, to encourage them to take an active part in the Programme. ‘It’s about changing the mindset, really, and about being positive about what we do,’ says Alan. ‘If we show young people what we offer, they just go for it.’ www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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Welsh pride

The cameraman never lies How would an ex-Scout describe his job capturing the adventures of Chief Scout Bear Grylls? ‘It’s a fantastic comingtogether of a lot of brilliant things’ is the answer. The journey which took Simon Reay from climbing trees in Berkshire to the world’s most challenging environments began by first satisfying his love of adventure through Scouting. ‘I’ve been working with Bear since 2005 and it’s a dream job in a lot of ways,’ says the Born Survivor cameraman. ‘I am almost entirely living a Scout life of outdoor adventure. The skills I learned are still applicable to what I do too. I constantly do something instinctively, but if you trace that knowledge back, it all started when I joined my local Cub Scout Pack. ‘Scouting opened up a lot of avenues for me. I would definitely consider volunteering and hope that my two sons will get involved once they’re old enough.’ The visual style of the show requires Simon to often undertake the same incredible tasks as Bear, while holding a camera. ‘That’s part of the fun, I like the challenge,’ he laughs. ‘Sometimes I get a bit scared, but Scouting taught me that if you manage your fears and throw yourself into something, you will be rewarded – either that same day, or for the next 25 years, like me.’

The fastest-growing area in the UK is Snowdonia and Anglesey. Falklands veteran Simon Weston is President of Welsh Scouting. He says, ‘Scouting has changed so much in recent years that I am anxious to learn more about the amazing range of activities now available. I hope that I can inspire more adults to give up some of their time to help with organising and supporting Scouting.’

Encouraging employee volunteering One possible solution to the shortage of adult volunteers is to be more proactive in encouraging business to support employee volunteering. Scouting recently made a major

Membership

499,323

A variety of recruitment initiatives, both local and national, have hit the target

contribution to a report by the Social Market Foundation, More Than CV Points: The Benefits of Employee Volunteering for Business and Individuals. Writing in the report, UK Chief Commissioner Wayne Bulpitt said that ‘helping employers and government better recognise the role that volunteering can play in improving skills is essential’.

New ng you people

13,500

Joining list

33,500

s such a huge It’s fantastic to witnes biggest grow th surge in Scouting – the proof that for 38 years – and it is more and more Scouting is appealing is empowering, to teenagers. Scouting rs so many wild and fun, and of fe ities for young adventure-based activ e. My goal is for people and adults alik ho wants to be every young person w be able to. So involved in Scouting to e adults mor I hope to inspire even is happen. to volunteer and help th Chief Scout, Bear Grylls

26 Scouting June/July 2010

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Membership growth

More adult volunteers – but more still needed

For the second year running, The Scout Association has seen a rise in adult leaders with growth up from 2.7 per cent in 2009 to 4.1 per cent this year.

Our growth at a glance Total membership: 499,323 Total number of new adults and young people in Scouting: 16,568 (up 3.45 per cent on last year) Number of new adults in Scouting up 4.1 per cent on 2009 Number of new young people: 13,500 Fastest-growing District: Western Isles Fastest-growing Group: 1st Buckland (St Andrew’s) Devon Fastest-growing Area: Snowdonia and Anglesey Fastest-growing age group: teenagers (up 5.4 per cent on 2009) Total number of people on joining lists: 33,500

Sultana Khanom Sultana Khanom is a Group Scout Leader in East London and has helped deliver Scouting to new communities. ‘Our leadership team is quite young – we’re all aged between 21 and 29. There are two reasons why adults want to get involved in Scouting – the first is that we enjoy giving something back to the community. The second is that the training gives us planning and organisation skills, which can help with career development. I’m also a qualified archery instructor, which isn’t something I thought I would ever be. I also get great support from my District Commissioner.’ Despite the increase in new adult volunteers, we still need to attract more if we are to offer Scouting to the 33,500 young people on our joining lists.

Congratulations to every adult volunteer who has helped Scouting grow

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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STARTS SATURDAY 3rd July until SUNDAY 25th July

OPEN EVERY DAY FROM 10am to 8pm

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For/against Expedition

Fact:

18%

of people would consider giving time to Scouting, but have simply not been asked*

*The Scout Association/NFP Research May 2010

g n i r e e t n u l o Does v ? e f i l r e t t e b a make for yes✔ no

✘

Print consultant Alan Levy is a Scout Leader and gets a lot out of volunteering

Financial consultant Paul Jones has a young son and does not volunteer at all

The funny thing is, I didn’t volunteer – I was asked to help out. A friend of mine who was an Assistant Scout Leader asked me to come along and, to be honest, I was a bit reticent at first. ‘I’ll do a deal with you,’ I said. ‘I’ll come along to one meeting, and if I like it, I’ll come along again.’ I suppose I must have liked it, as I’ve been doing it for eight years now! I’m a busy person with a demanding job, and I did worry about how much time volunteering would take up, but you get out of it what you put in. After an evening meeting that has gone well, you get a great feeling of satisfaction and achievement. As a volunteer, you’re also giving something back to the community, which increases your social circle and makes for a more balanced life. Probably the biggest thing I get out of Scouting is the chance to do activities in the outdoors. We’ve just run a three-mile night hike across farmland with our Scouts, which they absolutely loved. The skills I’ve developed in Scouting have helped in all aspects of my life. I’m now confident in first aid, which prepares me for situations that arise at home or work. Accidents don’t just happen in the Scout Hall.

I’m not against volunteering, it’s just I don’t have time for it at the moment. We’ve got a two-year-old son, Ben, who’s obviously not anywhere near Scout age yet, so volunteering is not really on my radar. I did enjoy Scouting when I was younger. I was a Patrol Leader and enjoyed competition camps and hikes. A lot of my friends were in Scouting and it formed a big part of my childhood. I also enjoyed volunteering for Camp America and teaching archery when I was a teenager. Commuting to Bristol every day means I get back later than I’d like to and, to be honest, I want to spend what little time I have catching up with Ben and my wife. I don’t think it’s fair that I immediately disappear out of the door again. I do like the outdoors and would consider volunteering again when Ben’s a bit older. I don’t feel as if I’m losing out by not volunteering, although you could say I don’t know what I’m missing.

can we convince Paul? Why not invite him along for a meeting and invite him to show Scouts his archery skills? Emphasise that he can volunteer on a flexible basis and that he can still enjoy fun outdoor experiences.

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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The Round big our barbecue place Sainsbury’s Try Team

Spice up your Bige Barbecu

d you to hold a Big Last issue we challenge to thank young Barbecue this summer outing – and invite people and adults in Sc u haven’ t got round new ones to join. If yo here’s some recipe to doing this yet then ur y’s Active Kids, inspiration from Sainsb or ters/sponsors our Big Adventure supp

ctive Kids helps young people across the UK lead an active and healthy lifestyle. Just take a look at the online catalogue and you’ll see the wide range of sports, cooking and gardening equipment available. Being active is really important and so is a healthy, balanced diet, so Sainsbury’s Try Team has put together some healthy barbecue recipes just for us. The 12 ladies of the Try Team took five minutes out of their busy schedule – you may have seen them cooking up treats in the X-Factor house or delivering inspirational food demonstrations in Sainsbury’s stores and at food events – to put their heads together and pick their favourite skewer recipes! Give the recipes below a try for yourselves.

Lamb & rosemary skewers Serves 4, Preparation 10 mins, Cooking 10 mins

Ingredients Zest of 2 lemons 1 tsp paprika 1 tsp Dijon mustard 1 pack Be good to yourself diced lamb 6 long and sturdy sprigs of rosemary Method Mix together the lemon zest, paprika and Dijon mustard. Toss the Be good to yourself diced lamb pack in the mixture until the meat is well coated. Strip the leaves off the rosemary stems, leaving some at the top. Thread the lamb cubes onto the sprigs, then barbecue or grill for ten minutes, turning until the meat is cooked through. Serve warm for a tasty summer appetiser.

Spanish chorizo skewers Serves 4, Preparation 5 mins, Cooking 10 mins

Ingredients 125g chorizo, cut into 1cm slices 1 red onion, cut into thin wedges 180g Sainsbury’s raw, peeled king prawns Juice of 1 lemon Method Preheat the grill to a high heat. Thread alternate pieces of chorizo, onion and prawns onto 4 skewers. Season and squeeze over the lemon juice. Grill the skewers for about ten minutes, turning regularly, until the prawns turn pink and the chorizo begins to sizzle.

For more on Active Kid

s, visit sainsburys.co.u

k/activekids

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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Camp cooking

Since the sun came out recently, we’ve been feeling summery, so we picked out this treat from celebrated children’s cook, Annabel Karmel. These meringues are designed to be cooked by budding chefs as young as six, and could be premade and topped at camp

Sweet treats Mini meringues

Serves 4, Preparation 20 mins, Cooking 1 to 11⁄2 hrs Ingredients 3 egg whites pinch of salt 170g caster sugar 1 ⁄2 tsp cornflour 1 ⁄2 tsp lemon juice 150ml double cream 150g mixed berries Method Cover a baking sheet with parchment. Draw four guide circles, each about 7cm across. Turn the parchment over – you should still be able to see the circles. To separate the eggs, tip each yolk from one half shell to the other, letting the white fall into a bowl. You only need the whites for this recipe. Preheat the oven to 140°C/275°F/ Gas mark 1. Add a pinch of salt to the egg whites and whisk to form stiff peaks. Whisk in 2 tbsp sugar and whisk again to form stiff peaks, then add another 2 tbsp sugar and whisk to form stiff peaks once more.

Fold in the remaining sugar, then sift the cornflour over and fold that in too, along with the lemon juice. Transfer the meringue to a piping bag with a large nozzle. Pipe baskets of meringue onto the baking parchment using your circles as guides. Bake the baskets for 1 to 1½ hours until the meringue is crisp on the outside and pale gold in colour. Turn off the oven. Leave the meringues in the oven until they are completely cold, preferably overnight. Serve with cream and mixed berries. Annabel’s tip: If you don’t want to pipe the meringue, spoon it onto the parchment and shape it with the back of the spoon.

Teach your Scouts to cook You Can Cook by Annabel Karmel is published by DK priced £12.99. For more information, visit www.dk.com

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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34 Scouting February/March 2010

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Pride London 2010

TAKE PRIDE Scouting is open to people of every sexual orientation. Programme and Development Adviser Paulina Sekrecka speaks to Matt Mills from the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender project team about Scouting’s involvement in Pride London 2010

What are The Scout Association’s plans for Pride London 2010?

Why has The Scout Association decided to take part in the march?

The London Pride march was a significant success for The Scout Association in 2009. It was the first time that we attended such an event; our contingent being led by the Fellowship for Lesbians and Gays in Scouting (FLAGS). This is the Active Support Unit dedicated to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) life. Our plans for Pride London 2010 are even bigger and better with the development of a project team to build on the work FLAGS has started. This has been a collaborative effort between the two teams to promote positive messages around LGBT Scouting. It is important that we deliver these messages both internally and externally to help increase understanding and counteract misinformation around sexual orientation.

Scouting is diverse, but we need to do more to promote and celebrate the diversity of our organisation. Taking part in Pride London 2010 is just one way to do this. We need to actively demonstrate our commitment to equal opportunities as the general public, the media and, of course, those already involved in Scouting will judge us on our actions, not just our words. Pride London 2010 culminates after ‘festival fortnight’ with the Pride march from Baker Street to Trafalgar Square on Saturday 3 July. It is during this march that we will be able to make a clear public statement that Scouting is truly diverse and we celebrate that openly.

Our plans for Pride London 2010 are bigger and better with the development of a project team to build on the work of FLAGS

Scouting is open to all young people and adults regardless of sexuality, but there is a barrier to understanding for young people and adults alike; the Movement is perceived by some people to be one where it is difficult

How does it contribute to the wider work we are doing to increase awareness of Scouting?

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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Scouting from 1909 to 2009 including the service given during two World Wars. ÂŁ9.99 with postage ÂŁ12 Cheques made payable to Mrs W Smith, 29A High Street, Spalding, Lincs, PE11 1TX

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Pride London 2010

The Movement is perceived by some people to be one where it is difficult or unacceptable to be openly gay or unacceptable to be openly gay. This kind of perception could harm the Movement as it may restrict people wanting to join us â&#x20AC;&#x201C; both adults and young people. By publicly celebrating the fact that we live by the statements in our equal opportunities policy, we can continue to correct these misconceptions and ensure that individuals are supported and can enjoy Scouting whatever their sexuality.

Tell us more about the work that the LGBT project team is hoping to develop this year. Attending Pride London 2010 is just one aspect of the work that the LGBT project team is looking at. There are other events around the UK in which we can promote Scouting and reaffirm to everyone our commitment to equality and diversity. We need to ensure that we can offer real practical support to adults and young people in Scouting through access to information and programme ideas. We hope to use Programmes Online for this. We need to make

sure that the press and opinion formers know about the work we are doing and understand we are genuinely and completely committed to ensuring that the Movement is truly accessible. As with all strands of diversity, LGBT work is not something that only LGBT people are involved in. Whatever your sexuality, you can apply to join the project team, become a member of FLAGS or show your support in some other way. Look out for The Scout Association at Pride London 2010 and hopefully other events in the coming months and years, and keep an eye on Programmes Online for practical support.

log on For more information on this and other LGBT issues, log on to www.pridelondon.org www.flagscouts.org.uk

ABOUT FLAGS The Fellowship for Lesbians and Gays in Scouting (FLAGS) is a national Active Support Unit and part of The Scout Association. Its objective is simply to spread the message that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s OK to be lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender and a Scout too, and it offers support to anyone who needs it. With that message we hope to recruit new adults into the Movement, and also to develop Members already in the Movement, helping them to achieve their full potential. We have an open door and fully integrating remit, and anyone is welcome to join the Scout Active Support Unit, including straight people and non-Members of Scouting. Frazer Mountford, FLAGS

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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The Big Adventure

What ed happen next? p me back from your cam Whether you’ve just co the next couple of or are planning to go in has some great ideas months, Rosie Shepherd cruit those parents who for what to do next to re venture helped out at your Big Ad

Parents may have particular skills to help run a specific activity

emember, The Big Adventure is not just about having fun (although hopefully you have lots), it’s also about recruiting parents to help in Scouting. So after a great camp, don’t lose the momentum and interest from your volunteers. Now’s the time to act.

At the end of the event The end of camp can be a very hectic time, but don’t forget to leave people on a high. Staying ten minutes longer to review the event with your leadership team and to say a personal thank you is invaluable in terms of getting them to help again. If parents leave before you get a chance to talk to them, phone the next day to say thank you. The feedback you get from parents will influence your next steps – if someone has had a great time they are more likely to volunteer in the future. If they haven’t enjoyed themselves, find out why. It may be that the role they took on wasn’t really suited to them.

Using the parent rota One of the most likely outcomes from The Big Adventure is more help on the parent rota. This is a structured way of

38 Scouting June/July 2010

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also The Big Adventure is supported by Wall’s

Parents might not be ready to help regularly in Scouting yet, but could be willing to take on a larger role in planning or organising a camp

Talk parents through the different roles available

A timely follow-up increases the chance of parents volunteering again

getting parents involved on a regular basis, without them feeling pressured. Make sure that the number of times they help out is realistic and that they have specific tasks to do.

Using specialist skills Some parents may not have the time to help out on a weekly basis. They may, however, have particular skills that they could use to run an evening activity. For example a fireman may be able to arrange a visit to the station or a karate instructor could run a self-defence session.

Taking on a particular role You may find that a parent is eager to take on a Scouting appointment. Talk them through the different roles, including the requirements for membership and training. Let them try out the role before taking it on, and make sure they are supported and encouraged in what they decide to do.

Put them in touch with someone else Parents may have had fun, but perhaps they would prefer a role that involves less contact with young people? Even if you don’t have a suitable role

available, put them in touch with someone who could help. Introduce them, and follow it up with the parent to make sure they are happy with how things are going.

Invite them to the next camp If parents enjoyed themselves, invite them to your next outdoor event. They might not be ready to help regularly in Scouting yet, but could be willing to take on a larger role in planning or organising a camp.

Whatever you do – follow up! Finally, however you decide to follow up with parents after your Big Adventure, don’t forget to do it. The main reason people give for not volunteering is simply not being asked – don’t fall into this trap.

Your Big Adventure We would really like your feedback. Visit the ‘Contact us’ section of www.scouts.org.uk/thebigadventure to take part in the survey. For more information on our supporter Sainsbury’s Active Kids, please visit www.sainsburys.co.uk/activekids

HOW I FOLLOWED UP MY BIG ADVENTURE Our parents loved the experience of Cub camp. One mum said she found sitting round the campfire particularly spiritual. It was a fantastic end to a great event. I have already sent out thank-you cards and invites to a raftbuilding event, and will chase again after that. Amanda Reed, 15th Norwich

More info Your camp or event can be part of The Big Adventure, which runs from 1 May to 31 August. Simply invite parents and other adults to get involved. Order free copies of A Little Guide for Parents & New Adults from the Scout Information Centre at www. scouts.org.uk/ infocentre or email info. centre@scouts. org.uk or call 0845 3001818.

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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Ambassador

Global citizen A successful troubadour, poet and musician, Dawud Wharnsby works relentlessly to help foster relationships between cultures. He is also an ambassador for UK Scouting I wasn’t very good at school But I had a dream of becoming a writer. When I got into high school I started to find my way, as a young adult, to express myself. I joined drama classes. I grew with it. By the time I finished I was working in education, using puppetry as a way to combat disability. When I left high school, I continued working as a puppeteer, songwriter and poet. Now, a long time later, I’m still doing it. I move around a lot I split my time between Colorado, Ontario and Pakistan, and in between all that I spend four months of the year on the road, performing. It’s hard, especially as I really enjoy being at home. My wife, daughter and I are all very close so when I’m away it’s very difficult, but it’s worth it. I couldn’t choose between America and Pakistan I love what America and Europe have to offer in terms of opportunities, education and diversity, but I also love the traditions that come with Pakistan. There’s a real sense of community there. I believe Scouting offers something valuable to communities Young people are bombarded to sign up to the issues of the day. Something like Scouting takes it back to the community, the individual and a sense of place. It’s about trying to work together to solve some of the fundamentals of community. If we can solve those problems, indirectly, a lot of the big issues will start to subside.

I don’t believe in any one religion I believe the spiritual journey that each of us takes on is a personal one, and I feel religion is a delicate road. I don’t like to belong to one religious community as I don’t want people to feel excluded from asking for my help or learning with me. It’s all about bringing people together to celebrate their various interpretations of scripture. I am a Muslim and I worship in mosques when I am in Pakistan. I also worship in Unitarian churches when I’m in the US. Such spiritual freedom is very important to me. I use music to promote social cohesion My programme, The Art of Creative Expression, empowers young people with tools to express themselves. We teach photography, art and drama, but it’s not just the medium that’s important, it’s about what you are trying to say. I believe we’re all different but fundamentally the same Kids in Pakistan ride to school in the back of a horse-drawn cart, but they still dream of becoming a doctor, going to the moon, owning a house one day. Children in Glasgow dream the same dreams. If you have hope and understanding of the world, your dreams are what you base your life on, not your struggles. I find inspiration in the smallest things Life is full of inspiration. A child, a cloud, enjoying a good cup of tea. Every day I make notes of things I haven’t seen or experienced before. If I could change one thing about myself I wish I could trust myself and other people more.

find out more Read about Dawud and his work at www.enterintopeace.com

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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The thought of leading a campfire, with a less than attentive audience of young people demanding entertainment, can be enough to give anyone the shivers. Imagine my horror when asked to lead the Gilwell Reunion campfire in front of 500 adult Members, including then Chief Scout Peter Duncan, writes Elis Matthews

S ’ E R I F P M CA

At my first Cub camp, aged eight and full of beans about sleeping under canvas, every experience was new and exciting. I climbed trees, ran free in the woods playing a wide game I barely understood, abseiled and lit my first fire. Something I wasn’t expecting was the ritual of the whole camp gathering around a crackling fire singing songs your parents would never teach you.

A man possessed

Campfires were always led by Gaff, the most senior member of the Group, and a seasoned pro. His repertoire was exhaustive, his style commanding and his enjoyment plain to see. From ‘Campfire’s Burning’ in a round of four groups, the songs merged into one intoxicating mix of camaraderie and fun. Some moments were poignant, some raucous. I was hooked. Through the years, the odd song was added, but the favourites were requested whenever the opportunity arose. ‘The Quartermaster’s Stores’,

‘Life is Butter’, ‘One Man Went to Mow’ – these were the staples of a campfire, which stuck with me during my youth.

Filling big shoes

Preparing the order for the Gilwell Reunion campfire was a big task. It would have been easy to try and replicate the successful routines of past leaders, but I felt it was important to be myself and pick the songs that meant the most to me. To give the evening some structure, I divided the event into four themes: animals, food, international and spirituals. This gave a good mix of riotous yells and reflective, quieter songs. I also called on some experienced colleagues to offer a couple of numbers, mainly to give me a breather and give some diversity to the proceedings. Having never actually led a campfire before, I had to rely on the natural entertainer within me, and tried not to over-rehearse, trusting instead in the spontaneity of the moment a campfire creates.

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Skills & activities

Use actions to hold your Scouts’ attention and get them involved

BURNING I took advice, trusted my instincts and hoped for good weather!

Singing in the rain

A wet weekend signalled a change of plan, and up until the last minute we were unsure if the campfire would go ahead or move inside. In the end, we went for it, and I introduced the Gene Kelly favourite to open proceedings and laugh in the face of the elements. At times, the atmosphere was so special. The only comparison I can make is to a cathedral at the end of the day – hushed, but awesome. There were also comical moments, for instance, when the Chief Scout joined in with a verse of the Pizza Hut song that had been specially written for him. The rain set in, bringing an early close to the sing-song, but as damp revellers tramped off to their tents to make a hot brew, I couldn’t help feeling that we’d shared in a tradition that raises the spirits, unifies us as Scouts, and helps make this Movement unique.

Fireside stories ‘A campfire should be fun, enjoyable, catchy and different. Don’t shy away from tweaking songs (‘Grand old Duke of York’ became ‘Grand old Captain Kirk’ for a while). Lighting the fire is important; we’ve used five poi swung round the head, which creates a spectacle. You know you’ve succeeded when you get up the following day and there’s a buzz in the campsite, with the young people still singing songs that are stuck in their head.’ Sarah Miller, Coventry campfire queen ‘As well as involving the kids, get the leaders involved (especially if you can embarrass them). Get someone to help you – it gives you a breather – and always keep a drink handy. Jumping about like an idiot is thirsty work!’ Fudge, Scottish campfire guru

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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Skills & activities

Mix up your programme with sketches, yells and songs

SPARKLE E IR F P M A C R U O Y E K TIPS TO MA mpfires The most memorable ca are the ones in which ppen spontaneous things ha

React, don’t be rigid

The most memorable campfires are the ones in which spontaneous things happen. Don’t let your perfect plan get in the way of the improvised moments – these are golden!

The bigger the better

Involve young people

Variety is good

Instil your own traditions

No, not the size of the fire, but how animated you come across to your audience. Remember, if you don’t seem to be enjoying it, why would anyone else? If doing actions, make them big, exercise your mouth muscles, and don’t hold back.

As fun as the yells and fast songs are, vary these with more reflective, musical items. Have a mix of fast and slow, contemporary and traditional, rounds and choruses, sketches and songs. This will ensure that there’s something for everyone.

Don’t drag it out

A good campfire can be done and dusted in 45 minutes. If you’ve younger Scouts in attendance, don’t leave any space for them to get bored and whiny. If the adults want to carry on singing, this can be done later when the Scouts are in bed.

Often has a campfire been ruined by an over-effusive adult dominating events. Get the input of young people to provide sketches, lead songs and make suggestions. It will be all the better for everyone involved.

The togetherness of a campfire is what makes it special. Find the song or habit that gives the occasion a sense of group identity. For example, some camps retain the ash from last year’s fire to add to the next, meaning that the spirit of the previous campers lives on for many years. Adapting songs or having an honorary role are also good ideas. Make it your own.

tell us your tales You can hear a snippet of Elis’s campfire and post your own memories and tips at www.scouts.org.uk/campfirestories

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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TOGETHER WE’RE BETTER

The relationships formed during team Scouting activities shape how our young people will fit into society – so it’s pleasing you voted teamwork into the top ten Scouting skills. But how does a team actually work?

Being in a group is not only safer than operating alone, but also allows us to share our knowledge, skills and experience and to build on each other’s strengths. Those who are unsure of their abilities or lack motivation may be encouraged to try new things and face new challenges – and gain self-confidence in the process – while those who have skills can discover the pleasure of sharing them and helping others.

Leading the way

what needs to be done and who should do it. People usually volunteer to carry out the tasks they feel best suited to, such as booking campsites, checking timetables or organising food supplies. If some members of the group are reluctant to volunteer, or there are jobs no one wants to do, then the leader should share out the tasks evenly and offer help to anyone who may need it. The leader should make sure everyone is clear about what, when and why things need to be done.

To work well together, every group needs a leader. The leader may be elected by the rest of the group, or might naturally be the person best placed to lead in a particular situation, perhaps because of age or experience. It is the leader’s job to organise the others and help them achieve their goals as efficiently as possible. However, this does not mean the leader has to take on all the different tasks, or make all the decisions. It is best if everyone in the group is involved at each stage of the planning process. At the planning stage, the leader should get everyone together to discuss

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Skills & activities

Individual needs

Everyone has different strengths and weaknesses. A good leader will be aware of each person’s needs and make sure every member of the group feels wanted and involved. The leader must be willing to listen to other people’s ideas and try to find a group consensus. If there is no workable consensus, then he or she must make the decision – and every member of the group should be willing to accept it. The leader also needs to be aware of his or her own strengths and weaknesses, and realise that his or her behaviour will affect everyone in the group.

PADDLING PROUD

Leader’s checklist:

Have you involved everyone in the group with the decision-making? Have you given and received information clearly and accurately? Do you fully appreciate your group’s skills and resources? Have you helped your group to work together effectively as a team? Have you helped individuals in your group learn new skills? Have you considered each individual’s needs within the group?

While much of northern Europe was at an ash cloud-induced standstill, 1st Chertsey leaders Louise MacDonald and Steve Valiant were on the move. The pair, along with two adventurous friends, built a raft and paddled it the 20-mile length of the Wey Navigation in Surrey to raise money for new Scout premises. Embodying the teamwork that is central to Scouting, the quartet took 19 hours (plus an overnight stay) to reach Thames Lock near Weybridge, raising nearly £1,000 in the process. ‘This trip was originally going to be a fun weekend in kayaks,’ said team member Toby Athersuch, ‘but then the idea to build our own raft and raise money for the Group came up and we just went with it!’ If you would like to sponsor the group, go to www.justgiving.com/wey-rafting

Taking the lead

For more information on leadership skills for Scouts, Explorers and the Scout Network, see www.scouts.org.uk/takingthelead www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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Lookout tower

Try this advanced pioneering project, either with older Scouts or with your leadership team as a bonding experience. It will make the ideal lookout at your next camp or fun day You will need: 4 x 3.6m-5m poles (sides) 8 x 2.5m poles (bottom rails and braces) 6 x 2m poles (top rails) approx 24 x 2m light poles (platform floor and rails) 4 x 1.5m light poles (platform uprights) lashing lengths rope ladder large pegs or pickets

Optional: 3 x 3.5m poles (tripod) 3 x approx 20m ropes (long to lift the tower) 1 pulley

1 2

Construct the sides from two trestles made with the longest poles, a 2m pole for the top rail and a 2.5m pole for the bottom rail. Brace each side with a single 2.5m pole. Lay the trestles on their sides and join them using 2 x 2m poles and 2 x 2.5m poles. Make sure the joining poles at the top are above the existing side rails, as they will form the supports for the platform. Brace these sides with two more 2.5m poles.

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Skills & activities

Lash the two remaining 2m poles across the top of the tower to strengthen the base for the platform. Put aside 4 x 2m light poles and lash the rest to the top of the tower to make the platform floor. Use 4 x 1.5m poles as uprights for the platform handrail and join them with the 4 x 2m light poles you put aside to make the handrail. Brace the spars if necessary.

Name: Ngaire Takano Joined Scouting: 2002 Roles: ASL, GSL District Environment Adviser Occupation: Environmental Consultant

It’s not easy being green Scouts are natural eco-warriors – green, in many cases, without even realising it. In our new ‘Eco’ column, environmentalist and Group Scout Leader Ngaire Takano states the case for putting planet Earth at the heart of our Scouting adventure

5 6

Tie the rope ladder to one of the poles at the base of the platform. To lift the tower upright, make a tripod and hang the pulley from the centre. Position the tripod about 10m from the base of the tower. Tie two long ropes to the back corners of the tower (not the handrail). Fix the third rope to the middle of the front of the tower and feed it through the pulley. Use this rope to raise the tower while it is steadied by others using the back ropes. When the tower is upright, peg the bottom of the rope ladder to the ground. The tower should be stable free standing, but if you are in any doubt at all, knock in large pegs or pickets by each foot and lash the legs to them.

put your best yarn in Are you a pioneering enthusiast? Would you like to share your experiences of being involved in a major project? We’re looking for a pioneering guru to contribute to the magazine. If that sounds like you, get in touch with us via scouting. magazine@scouts.org.uk

Whether it’s recycling playing cards, using biodegradable tent pegs, reducing emissions, considering green energy suppliers or tailoring the World Cup football kit from recycled polyester, we can all do our bit for the environment.

Why get involved? Being green is often perceived as being too costly or too ‘alternative’. It’s my aim to break down these misconceptions and show how being green can benefit the Group, both as Scouts and financially. Scouting is the largest youth-led organisation in touch with the environment today. Therefore, we surely have a responsibility as leaders to pass on a strong sense of guardianship to all those involved. It feels right that as Scouts we give something back to our environment. I hope to illustrate how we can do this in future – whether via ideas on Group allotments, ‘green’ activities or ways to make our environmental impact in the Scout Hut or on camp that bit lower – without needing to jump through hoops to get there. As ever, fun and enjoyment is important. I am happy to receive any questions, comments and even suggestions for future articles. Please feel free to contact me via: ecocolumn@scouts.org.uk www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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Two-wheel adventures

Our third instalment from Scouting Skills shows that Scouting isn’t just knots, lashing and tents – sports and fitness activities are right at the heart of what we do. And choosing the right bike for your activity, as well as knowing how to look after it, is as much a skill as the riding itself

pitch and ride

Instead of hiking and camping, why not cycle with a tent? As more and more people leave their cars at home, so cycling becomes an obvious option – it’s healthy, virtually free (once you have bought a bike), good for the environment and fun to do. There are several types of cycle, each suited to different terrains. A basic bike that rides equally well on roads and tracks is known as a hybrid. Hybrid bikes are good all-purpose bikes with decent gears

for getting you up and down hills and flattish handlebars that allow you to sit fairly upright. If you want something sturdier to carry more equipment, look at trekking bikes or touring bikes. These come with more accessories, such as mudguards, bottle holders and luggage carriers. They may also have stronger back wheels, enabling them to take more weight, wider tyres, and differently shaped handlebars that allow the rider to change hand positions.

key Equipment

If you are planning to do mainly day trips, you should take with you a helmet, a water bottle, snacks, a map, a mobile phone, a first-aid kit, a windand rainproof jacket, a bike lock, a pump and a basic bicycle repair kit – with a small rucksack to carry some of it in. Cycling far with a heavy rucksack is uncomfortable, so if you are travelling any distance at all it is better and safer to fit a rear carrier rack and panniers.

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Skills & activities

Five top one-day cycle rides 1 The Forest of Dean – various routes

www.forestry.gov.uk/forestofdean

2 The Solar System (York to Selby) – 6.4 miles www.solar.york.ac.uk

Monsal Trail, Peak District – 121/2 miles www.peakdistrictinformation.com

4 Water Rail Way, Lincolnshire – 19 miles www.sustrans.org.uk

5 Tarka Trail, Devon – 31 miles www.devon.gov.uk/cycling

repair kit, tyre levers, a set of spanners, Allen keys, pliers, screwdrivers, a spare valve, inner tube, brake blocks and cables, gear cables, chain links and a few wheel spokes. If you don’t know how to use it, don’t take it.

TOP TIPS

‘Cycling on and off-road are great ways to get out and see the countryside. You can make the rides as hard or as easy as you like, but always ensure you ride safely, and have fun!’ Graham Clark, UK Technical Adviser for Mountain Biking

Make sure you know how to keep your bike in good repair. You should be confident mending a puncture, replacing a tyre, adjusting brakes and replacing brake blocks or cables, repairing broken chains, and adjusting gears. If possible, take a cycle maintenance course. Check the Cyclists’ Touring Club on www.ctc.org.uk for course details. Always wear a helmet. Know the Highway Code, especially the section on cyclists. For more information on this, go to www.direct.gov.uk and click on Travel and Transport, the Highway Code.

Seek permission It is important to follow the Association’s rules for cycling when taking Scouts out. To see assessment checklists for cycling and mountain biking please refer to www.scouts.org.uk/a-z

SCOUTING SKILLS Reproduced by permission of Doubleday

If you’re touring on roads and camping out at night, racks and panniers are a must. It is best to get the strongest racks and panniers you can, as they can buckle under the strain, especially when travelling on bumpy tracks. You will probably need front panniers as well as rear, but make sure they are fitted correctly, as a badly fitted rack can cause an accident. A handlebar bag that can easily be unclipped and carried around is useful for personal items, such as keys and money. Of course, you’ll need a full repair kit. This should include a puncture

Scout Shops is offering £5 off the marked price for readers of Scouting. Order for £9.99 from www.scouts.org.uk/shop or call 01903 766921. Item code: 1027759

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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Western approach Avon experienced an above-average six per cent surge in membership in 2009 – the seventh successive year of growth in the County. However, national statistics are but a small part of the Scouting experience, so Dave O’Carroll packed his bags and headed west to meet the people behind the numbers

von in the west of England is, in many ways, a composite of the experiences enjoyed and challenges faced across the rest of the UK. It is both urban and rural, traditional and diverse. It also houses more than 11,500 Members, adults and young people. Not bad for a County that doesn’t exist any more. ‘The key concern for most voluntary groups is how they get enough money and volunteers to operate,’ says County Commissioner Neil Salter. ‘For us, those questions have to be addressed depending on whether we are talking about inner-city Scouting in central Bristol, or one of our rural areas where issues of transport and accessing facilities abound.’ ‘This year, we are aiming to recruit more adults to meet our waiting list demands,’ Deputy County Commissioner Clare Waggett told me, no doubt echoing the ambitions of County and District Commissioners everywhere. Easier said than done.

Community outreach The County of Avon officially came into existence in 1974 as a result of the 1972 Local Government Act. It was subsequently abolished in 1996, but the boundaries remained in Scouting. A few years ago, an exercise was undertaken to change the District support structure. Neil says this helped them to realise that ‘groups need to be part of, and representative of, the community in which they are meeting’. This ethos is exemplified by the Blenheim Scout Group which is running a camp for local schoolchildren when I visit. Goblin Combe Environment Centre, just south of Bristol, is home to these events where pupils in years 2-6 at Fair Furlong Primary School learn skills you wouldn’t find in any normal classroom. ‘We like to get the kids involved in camping, campfires, backwoods cooking, pioneering and many other practical skills that are missing in their day-to-day lives,’ says Group Scout Leader Allan Burnett.

‘Ours is a school in an area where there is a lot of deprivation, domestic violence, drug abuse and such problems,’ reveals head teacher Emma Drew. ‘Putting on camps like this is really important for our children because they need those experiences that they don’t get at home.’ ‘This is a good way of reaching out to parents. They get to see us as something that doesn’t just happen on a Friday night at a church hall. We are actually part of their community,’ states Allan. ‘At the same time, the young people get to see the outdoors and enjoy what we get from Scouting.’

Inner-city problems While this approach has bred success for Blenheim, the experience is different elsewhere. As some have discovered, it’s one thing opening your group up, but the community itself has to want to join in – and many don’t. In inner-city Bristol, the ward of Easton is home to the 128th St Gabriel’s Scout Group. The Group’s

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heritage is of cultural diversity, formed as it was around the West Indian families who moved to the area in the 1950s. However, there has been an influx from Africa and Eastern Europe over the last few years, and it is proving far more difficult to attract young people from those families. ‘It’s really hard,’ admits Assistant Cub Scout Leader Maureen Waller. ‘As much as we try to go around the houses, putting notes through doors and visiting schools, we just don’t get the young people through the door and I don’t know why.’ Maureen has been with the group since the 1950s, and while she admits that numbers have always fluctuated, they appear to be consistently low at the moment. Fellow Assistant Cub Scout Leader Paul Shapcott thinks that inner-city groups generally have a much harder job establishing themselves as part of an area: ‘We have a lot of low-income or single-parent families. People are working as much as they can to make ends meet and they don’t have time to consider Scouting.’

Adult interest So, what can be done to help groups like St Gabriel’s? ‘We’ve looked at various routes to overcome such situations,’ reveals Neil. ‘I think you need someone from these communities, a community champion, if you will, to say that this is something that everyone should join in with. Until you get the adults interested, it’s very difficult to get young people involved.’ This approach has worked to some extent elsewhere in the County. The 1st Bristol is an all-Muslim Group and many others enjoy a rich mix of faiths and cultures. Extending this to the newer immigrant communities is the challenge. Avon’s District Commissioners are thus charged with ensuring that groups are as representative of their area as possible. In many cases,

‘As much as we try to go around the houses, putting notes through doors and visiting schools, we just don’t get the young people through the door and I don’t know why’ establishing links with the local authorities has helped as they have recognised the value of Scouting as a youth-led Movement and so asked for assistance in providing youth services in some wards. Clare believes this grassroots engagement is the best way to reach out to both adults and young people. ‘I think groups realise that recruitment is everyone’s responsibility,’ she says. ‘We’ve done big profile-raising events in the past, but our most successful initiatives have always involved local groups going out, engaging people and getting them to participate. Our volunteers make amazing things happen.’ Simple ideas such as public dining shelters dishing out bacon butties have reaped major recruitment rewards in the past. Clare is a staunch advocate of building these campaigns around a positive ‘come and join this fantastic organisation’ message rather than ‘come and save us, we’re sinking’.

Teen spirit Tasty as they may be, bacon butties are not going to solve the recruitment issue alone. Despite being able to swell its number of young people by 600 in the last year, Avon still has over 1,000 on its joining list. Step forward, the teenage cavalry. ‘Our Young Leader scheme has nearly 500 participants, and if anything is going to solve the volunteer crisis, it’s that,’ affirms Neil. ‘Giving those teenagers responsibilities and having them take

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In focus

on leadership positions is really important, both for them and us.’ The two Young Leaders I met at Goblin Combe didn’t have time to consider a major role in solving the recruitment conundrum. They were far too busy putting the year 2s from Fair Furlong through the ‘Crystal Maze’ series of fun challenges. ‘Scouts was good, but Young Leaders is better,’ declares Harry. ‘I love the activities and being involved in the planning, too, as I can put that towards helping me find a job in future. Even when you’re filling out paperwork, you’re with friends so you can have a laugh.’ His colleague Claire agrees: ‘Being a Young Leader is great. You make friends, enjoy yourself and can train to do other things as well. I love seeing the children’s faces because when they have fun, you have fun.’ ‘It’s about sharing your skills, too,’ continues Harry. ‘You can see them enjoying it like you did when you were that age. If they enjoy it, maybe they’ll progress and become Young Leaders and teach others in turn.’

One last thing With the future seemingly safe in Young Leader hands, I just had time to ask the County Commissioner what one thing he would change about Scouting if he could. ‘I would alter some of the preconceptions that some people in the Movement have about how someone volunteers,‘ offers Neil. ‘We still have some difficulties accepting that not everyone can make the same commitment. ‘I’m not sure that those who say they can only help out one or two nights a month are always welcomed. That flexible volunteering idea is something we still have to get right. We need to recognise that the way we do things in the future might be different to the way we’ve done them in the past.’

Capital fundraising It’s not just recruitment that is occupying the minds of UK Scouting volunteers. In the face of tough economic times, finances are a concern for all, Avon included. ‘Fundraising is both a resource and a skill,’ says Neil. ‘When it comes to general funds to keep a group running, I think we all have our tried and tested methods and most groups know how to get by, albeit with a certain scaling back of activities. ‘In my opinion, the real problem is funding for capital projects. Scouting has been going for 103 years and we have huts that are even older. ‘Some don’t have coeducational toilets. Some don’t have toilets at all. We had an issue with one group who wanted to insure their wooden Scout hut and were quoted £14,000 a year. Where does that money come from? ‘Our number one focus is, and will remain, the 10,000 young people in the County who come to us every week,’ explains Neil. ‘But our biggest challenge is getting to a stage where the facilities we operate from meet their expectations.’ Fundraising for Local Scouting (FS190018) offers essential advice for putting together a fundraising campaign. It’s available to download at www.scouts.org.uk/fundraising

Watch the video

A selection of interviews, testimonials and footage from Scouting’s trip to Avon is available to view at www.scouts.org.uk/tv

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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Advertorial

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Centres, its own Scout Activity e Scout Association has Th t n book tha eve ow or ty kn y par ma a e You eting, hav can hold a business me but did you know you h us? a wedding reception wit

Baden-Powell House and Gilwell Park provide important meeting and event facilities for staff and volunteers. By opening our doors for public and corporate use, we are able to strengthen ties with local businesses and communities, ensure affordability and modern facilities for Scouts, and help generate funds for Scouting as a whole. For more information, visit: scouts.org.uk/conferences

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Baden-Powell House is perfectly situated in South Kensington, opposite the Natural History Museum. For your next business meeting or conference, we can offer recently refurbished rooms and a main hall, suitable for up to 300 people – all with state-of-the-art facilities at highly competitive rates. And if you want to organise a party that’s a little different, our rooftop garden with views over South Kensington is the perfect place for an al fresco gathering or summer barbecue. You’ll also be helping The Scout Association fund its good work. bph.conferences@scouts.org.uk 020 7590 6909

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Refer your company to either of our conference centres and receive a ten per cent discount on room hire*. Not only that, on receipt and confirmation of any booking, you personally will receive a £50 Scout Shops voucher.

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Gilwell Park, the home of Scouting, has all the grandeur of a country setting just 20 minutes from central London. It houses a range of small and large meeting rooms in both The White House and a purpose-built centre. The White House also has 41 en suite bedrooms, including several signature rooms offering boutique accommodation at affordable prices. If you’re looking for the perfect venue for your wedding reception, Gilwell Park could be the answer. Exclusive hire for your big day includes transformation of the main hall into an ‘indoor marquee’, to create a stylish, weatherproof space for your wedding breakfast. You can also bring your company to Gilwell Park for a team-building event. Test your team’s brainpower with problem solving, discover a new way to commute on the zip wire, hit your targets with archery, or scale new heights on our climbing wall – the choice is yours. gilwell.conferences@scouts.org.uk 020 8498 5300

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*Terms and conditions Minimum value booking: £500. Bookings must be made between 1 June and 31 October 2010 and the event must take place before 31 March 2011. Applies to new bookings only. Not available to companies previously booking our centres. This offer is subject to availability and we reserve the right to withdraw it at any time.

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Scout Active Support

e r i h s k r Yo folks

in Scouting have If your circumstances Support could be the changed, Scout Active embers tell us why perfect answer. Two M rship to support they moved from leade

Craig Tillotson (aka Tilly) Keighley Scout Service Team West Yorkshire ‘I have been in Scouting since I was six and have benefited from supportive leaders and other adults within Scouting. I felt by joining Scout Active Support I could give something back, and it seemed the logical step for me to take when I became too old for Scout Network. ‘Scout Active Support has allowed me to carry on with my Scouting without having to become an adult leader, although I haven’t ruled this out. ‘The biggest difference I have noticed between Scout Network and Scout Active Support is the variety of Members. In our team, there are Members of different ages, experience and with different interests. It is good to know there is such a large variety of people to ask for help or advice if needed. I like Scout Active Support because, as with Scout Network, you can be as involved as you want. If you just want to turn up at meetings once in a while, that’s fine, but if you want to be involved in events or helping run the Unit, you will not be turned away.’

Judith Hunt Scout Active Support South Yorkshire ‘I’ve been an Assistant Cub Scout Leader, Cub Scout Leader and Assistant District Commissioner Cub Scouts. I resigned from my position simply because work commitments meant I couldn’t devote the time I felt was necessary. When I resigned I thought this was going to be just good, happy memories, until someone suggested starting up a Scout Active Support Unit for the District. ‘We’ve helped select Scouts to represent the District at the World Scout Jamboree, helped at County events, been involved with fundraising events and had fun days out. ‘We’re busy now planning events to support the District and hopefully taking a bit of pressure from leaders who have to plan a weekly programme. We’ll still have fun and hopefully help lots of other Members to have fun as well. ‘I find Scout Active Support ideal as I can fit it round other commitments and, working as a group, someone can usually be available. Within the group we have a wide range of skills which can be called upon when necessary.’ www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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People â&#x20AC;&#x201C; get ready! The process of registering adult volunteers on the Vetting and Barring Scheme will begin in July. Scout Groups should act now to ensure its implementation is as smooth as possible, says Dave Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Carroll

December2010 2009/ January 2010 [[1R]] 58 Scouting June/July

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Vetting and Barring Scheme

he need for a single agency to vet all individuals wishing to work with young people or vulnerable adults was recognised in the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006. Thus the Vetting and Barring Scheme (VBS) was born and, alongside it, the Independent Safeguarding Authority – the agency that will administer the scheme. Scouting volunteers in England, Wales and Northern Ireland will fall within the scope of the VBS, while a separate but aligned scheme is being set up in Scotland. According to Louise Fuller, Appointments & Membership Manager, ‘Groups need to be ready for this change – not only to comply with the law, but also to ensure they have a straightforward and welcoming joining process.’ So, how exactly will Scout Groups on the ground be affected and what do they need to do?

New volunteers From 26 July, all new volunteers will need to be registered on the scheme. To make this easier, the information on the current Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) form will be combined with that on Adult Application (AA) and Occasional Helper (OH) forms. As a result, new volunteers will only have to complete one form, which will cover their: Scouting role CRB check VBS registration This will apply in England and Wales only. In Northern Ireland, registration will be achieved via an updated Access Northern Ireland (ANI) form, which will be used in conjunction with the current AA and OH forms.

‘Groups need to be ready for this change – not only to comply with the law, but also to ensure they have a straightforward and welcoming joining process’ To comply with the law, new volunteers will need to be registered before their fourth day of helping out (over a 30-day period) or before undertaking any overnight activity, whichever occurs first.

Existing volunteers Those currently volunteering in Scouting with a valid CRB/ANI check will find their way onto the VBS at the time of their next renewal. Those without must have gained it and be registered on the VBS by July 2011. Every volunteer will need to be registered on the VBS by July 2015. To this end, we are introducing two new forms: Repeat CRB check (RCRB) Change of Role (CR) A supply of these forms will be sent out in the next few weeks (see Dates to Note panel). Ultimately, the VBS will serve to ensure that Scouting can be confident in the safety of the young people who come to enjoy the adventure.

find out more

If you have any queries on the content of this article, visit www.scouts.org.uk/vbs, email ecrb@scouts.org.uk or call the Scout Information Centre on 0845 300 1818.

Dates to note England & Wales

14 June 2010: A supply of new forms will be sent to each District and County/Area Appointments Secretary. They will also be available to order from the Scout Information Centre. The forms can be inputted locally from 26 July. They cannot be sent to HQ. 5 July 2010: From this date you will no longer be able to order CRB forms from the Scout Information Centre. 9 July 2010: This is the last date on which completed CRB forms can be received by HQ. We cannot guarantee forms received after this will be processed. 23 July 2010: This is the last date on which we can process existing CRB forms. After this, the CRB requires different data to register adults on the VBS. Any forms not processed by this date will be returned and a new AA/OH/RCRB check form will have to be completed instead. 26 July 2010: Appointments Secretaries can start processing CRB applications (using the new AA/OH/RCRB check forms) as part of the ‘Add Member’ process using the online tools at www.scouts.org.uk

Northern Ireland

Late June/early July 2010: Updated ANI Forms will be made available by Access Northern Ireland. 26 July 2010: From this date, only updated ANI forms may be sent for processing via Northern Ireland Headquarters. (Although forms can be submitted before this, actual processing will not commence until this date.)

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Country diary

Don’t miss the plot James Taylor wants us to get planting, even if we contain it

How is your BBC Dig In project going? Let us know via www. scouts.org.uk/digin

rowing your own food is a fun, educational challenge, with edible results. You don’t need a lot of space for a wonderful harvest. When introducing Scouts to vegetable growing, start with small-scale crops which mature quickly. For impatient Beavers, it doesn’t take long to set up an old sink and sow some salad seeds. Grow bags are cheap and efficient. Cubs and Scouts could start seeds such as French beans and courgettes in individual pots. Turn this into a friendly competition to see whose seedlings are the strongest, before transplanting them in the soil. Growing vegetables in containers means paying special attention to watering and harvesting. If more than one section is involved, try to share the watering to ensure continuity. Harvesting needs to start as soon as the crops are usable. French beans and courgettes taste great when young, and picking them stimulates the plants to produce more flowers, which means more crops. If not picked frequently enough, salad leaves will go to seed.

Tasting session Make the highlight of the challenge a tasting session on site. Here are some ideas: Carrots – pick, wash and eat raw. Try them with a home-made dip. Courgettes – pick young, slice lengthways and barbecue until slightly charred. Accompany with homemade relish. Salad – if you have a mixed batch of about six varieties, do some blindfolded tasting. Which is the most popular? Basil – chop finely and add to melted butter. Pour over freshly cooked pasta and maybe add a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese. French beans – pick early, boil for a few minutes and eat with a little melted butter while still firm.

More of the same? Ask your Scouts what they liked and disliked about the challenge. Would they plant the same again or have they other ideas? And, most importantly, did they think their vegetables were better than those bought from a shop?

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e s i R to the

e g n e l l a h c Do you find it challenging to deliver activities that support young people’s spiritual development? If so, help is at hand, says Alf Philpott, in the shape of a brand new resource, free with this issue of Scouting

group of Explorer Scouts is organising a minielection in their meeting place. One Explorer is canvassing support, another is preparing a speech. No, they’re not replaying the general election; they’re using just one activity from Rise to the Challenge that helps them explore their values and principles. When it comes to the Balanced Programme we know that many leaders find spiritual development the most difficult to bring to life. That’s why the Faith and Belief support team has compiled the new resource to provide direct programme support.

What’s inside? The booklet is highly practical, with an emphasis on activities you as leaders can pick up and use. It contains a definition of spiritual development in Scouting and an explanation of how young people grow in maturity when it comes to spiritual development. Most importantly, it provides 25 activities covering the five principles of spiritual development across all five sections.

Interactive activities Some activities fit easily into an evening programme. Others can run across several meetings. Most of the activities encourage young people to express their own opinions so it does not all have to come from you. The activities are not all ‘Let’s discuss…’ Instead, you will find indoor and outdoor ideas, active and creative activities, as well as reflective things to try. All are written for a particular section, but many can be adapted for older or younger members.

What are the five principles of spiritual development?

The five principles imply that leaders and members should be encouraged to: 1 Develop an inner discipline and training 2 Be involved in corporate activities with others 3 Understand the world around them 4 Help create a more tolerant and caring society 5 Discover the need for prayer and worship, both personal and shared.

The programmes indicate which Programme Zone or Self Development Area each activity sits within to help you ensure you deliver a Balanced Programme. In many cases you may find ideas similar to things you have tried in the past and realise, ‘I’m doing this already!’ In Rise to the Challenge, you’ll also find a list of resources that you may need for running each activity, information regarding organising faith events as well as a list of further support and help.

It’s over to you! It would be great to hear what use you make of this resource. Please let us know if you find yourself adapting and improving the ideas, so we can share them with others. Contact the team at faiths.beliefs@scouts.org.uk

The resource provides 25 activities covering the five principles of spiritual development across all five sections

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Faiths & beliefs

OBSTACLE COURSE

This is just one programme youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find in Rise to the Challenge â&#x20AC;&#x201C; originally for Cub Scouts, but can be used just as well across the sections Outline

INSTRUCTIONS

This is a chance for Scouts to work with each other and consider how people with different abilities have different needs.

Create an obstacle course using tables, chairs and other items of furniture.

Spiritual development Be involved in corporate activities with others

Time 20-30 minutes

Equipment Various obstacles, blindfolds

Programme Zones Beliefs and Attitudes Creative

Divide Lodges/Sixes/Patrols/Units/Network into two groups; the members of the first group are blindfolded and have to complete the obstacle course following the instructions given to them by the second group. After each Lodge/Six/Patrol/Unit/Network has completed the course, discuss with the blindfolded young people how dependent they felt on the others. Also discuss how well the seeing Scouts worked together to give instructions to the blindfolded ones.

find it online This resource is also available online at www.scouts.org.uk/faith

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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r o f t e s l al 1 1 0 2 n e swed Bank managers cleaning toilets. Engineers collecting litter. Teenagers and pensioners working together. These things don’t just happen – they are the result of selfless dedication. We caught up with a few of the 500 adult volunteers from the UK tasked with ensuring the 22nd World Scout Jamboree in Sweden runs smoothly

he largest ever UK leader team will attend next summer’s event in Sweden as part of the International Service Team (IST). Along with colleagues from all over the globe, they will spend 12 days doing whatever is necessary on site to make the Jamboree a success. They are the glue that holds it all together. So, just who are they? The more statistically minded may be interested to know the average age of the UK IST contingent is 29 years and five months, and that nearly three-quarters of UK Counties/Areas are represented. Around five per cent are Guides and each successful applicant had to complete a variety of team activities and creativity tests to prove they were worthy of a place. But there is much more to this interesting and eclectic bunch.

Stewart Todd This Assistant Explorer Scout Leader from Perth is responsible for electricity supply to homes in the east of Scotland. As a young person, Stewart was inspired by his local Scout leaders and he is keen to maintain that tradition in Sweden by helping out with activities that don’t resemble his day job.

Renira Rutherford

When not Scouting in Somerset, Renira sells farm toys online. She wants to work at the front desk at the Jamboree, so she can meet every single participant and squeeze the maximum out of the experience.

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International

David Rolfe

The oldest member of the team, David will turn 74 the week after the Jamboree. He has been Scouting for 45 years, can speak five languages and is learning a sixth, ‘so I can speak to everyone at the event,’ he says.

Felicity Wright

One of the youngest IST members, 18-year-old ‘Flic’ will be fulfilling an ambition that has burned since she went to the 2007 Jamboree. ‘I really want to be able to give other young people my support so they can experience what I have been fortunate enough to enjoy,’ she explains.

Tristan Cocks

Explorer Scout Leader Tristan is an electrician who is hoping to use his skills to good effect. He works on nuclear submarines most of the time, so it will be interesting to hear how that compares to working with 30,000 Scouts.

Lucy Onyango

Explorer Scout Lucy is one of the Association’s Young Spokespeople. Her communication skills and experience are sure to be a hugely useful addition to the event.

David O’Neill

A nurse for people with chest problems, David is hoping to have a role on the medical team. Hailing from Gwent, he first became involved in Scouting six years ago, when his children joined the adventure.

Previous IST teams, like the participants themselves, have returned from Jamborees gushing with anecdotes of fun, reward and new friends. And Chief Scout Bear Grylls is confident this year’s contingent will have a similar experience. ‘While lots of people know that Scouting is all about adventure, they often don’t realise that adult volunteers get to do just as much as our young Members.

The World Scout Jamboree is a great example of this,’ he says. ‘During the event they will meet people from around the world, take part in amazing adventures and experiences, and be challenged to think about global issues in a new light,’ he continues. ‘I know they are going to have an amazing time next year.’ The IST theme is ‘Contribute, Develop, Inspire’ – and that is exactly what the team plans to do. www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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HOW INSURANCE WORKS IN SCOUTING

20 QUESTIONS ANSWERED Let’s be honest, insurance is a subject often wrapped in impenetrable language. However, in today’s litigious society, it is hugely important for Members. We fired 20 questions at Ralph Doe from Unity (Scout Insurance Services) and got some straight answers

I’m a Member of The Scout Association, what coverage do I have?

You’re automatically provided with Public Liability, Personal Accident and Trustee Indemnity Insurance. These policies offer peace of mind, reassurance and are one of the many benefits of membership.

What do they cover me for?

Public Liability Insurance provides an indemnity for those authorised to be in charge of, or assist, a Scouting activity, against claims made by Members under their control, parents/guardians or third parties. To qualify, an activity must occur under the management of Scout leaders and helpers, on any premises, for the benefit of Members or Scouting in general.

What about Scout-owned campsites, activity centres or special events?

The cover extends to these but where climbing on static or rolling walls or abseiling facilities are available to nonMembers, an additional ‘Campsite Liability’ policy must be purchased from Unity. If in doubt, please check.

What’s not covered under this policy?

Legal expenses or liability arising out of ownership and/or driving/piloting motor vehicles, aircraft and/or gliders. Neither are zip lines, aerial runways or flying foxes when used by the public.

Am I covered for hiring land or facilities belonging to a third party?

Yes, but if you’re required to sign an agreement or indemnity for this, you should submit a copy to Unity for consideration first. Check POR Rules ‘8.2 (a)(b) Indemnities’ for full details.

What about hiring out our Scout premises?

You will be covered but you need to confirm, via the insurers of the building and/or your lease agreement, that such use is not excluded. If you insure your premises through Unity your cover is not affected.

Am I insured for transporting Scouts in my own private vehicle?

No. The driver of a motor vehicle must hold at least a third-party insurance policy – including passenger liability. The Scout Association doesn’t provide cover to individual drivers.

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Expedition Insurance

What should I do in the event of a claim against me or my group?

If you receive a claim from a solicitor, individual or organisation, do not respond. Contact us immediately. Unity and the Association’s solicitors will handle it for you.

That’s worrying; am I personally liable?

No. All public liability claims made are against the Association, not an individual or group. However, you may be contacted to help with the investigation. We feel it is important to support Members through the process.

Do I have to be in uniform to be insured?

No, there’s no such requirement under any of the policies provided.

in the home, there would be no policy to claim from and they would still experience loss of earnings.

So how can I protect myself?

It is strongly advised to consider private health or income protection insurance. This will safeguard the interests of you and your family in the event of an incident, whether it occurs during a Scouting activity or not.

So you don’t offer any provision for loss of income?

Unity is currently talking with leading providers of income protection insurance with a view to making such a product available on request.

Why has it not been offered previously?

Who is covered by Personal Accident and Medical Expenses (PAME) Insurance?

This applies to all Members who appear in the annual census, genuine prospective Members and members of Scoutlink clubs. Helpers, committee members, instructors and non-member children can all be added for a small additional premium.

What exactly does PAME provide?

Benefits are payable in the event of a Member suffering permanent injury or death from an accident. They are also payable if a Member sustains temporary disability as a result of an accident, illness or injury contracted and diagnosed while at an organised event.

When does it apply?

You are covered for an accident which arises while travelling to, participating in, or travelling from, any authorised Scouting activity.

What about expenses which are incurred?

Cover is provided for up to two relatives or friends who, on medical advice, are required to travel to, and remain with, the Member if they are hospitalised away from home. Medical expenses incurred abroad should be claimed through your travel insurance provider.

So if I or my sibling was injured in a Scouting activity and I’d been off work recovering or taking care of them, can I claim for loss of income? No. This question is often asked and the answer comes as a surprise. Consider this: if the individual was injured

Providing cover to the whole Association and potential carers would require a prohibitive increase in membership fees. Also, some Members may already be protected through their employer or a private policy.

If I take out a PAME policy for our group helpers, do I have to name them all?

No, all you have to do is ensure you disclose the maximum number you’ll have during the year. The minimum premium is the equivalent of cover for 25 people. You can also top up at any time if you increase your helpers quota.

Who is covered by Trustee Indemnity Insurance?

This applies to trustees of any Scouting charity, including members of executive committees for Scout Districts, Counties and Groups, as well as those who manage other Scout assets such as building or campsite committees. More details on Trustee Indemnity Insurance are provided in the Focus supplement. You can also contact Ralph at Unity (details below).

find policy details Unity (Scout Insurance Services) is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Scout Association. We provide bespoke policies and protection to the Association and its Members and 100 per cent of our profits go back into Scouting. Full details on all policies are available at www.unityins.co.uk/scouts. If you wish to speak to Ralph directly, contact him at ralph.doe@ unityins.co.uk or call 0845 0945 702.

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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Vango Alpha 250 Dome Tent Ref 1027447 £39 RRP £45 A great tent for festivals or first-time campers. Easy pitch dome style Inner pitching first Protex® 2000 polyester flysheet Pre-attached guy lines with tidies Capacity: two people Weight: 3.6kg Colour: Dahlia/Macaw

Save £30

Vango Icarus 400 Family Tunnel Tent Ref 1026997 £120 RRP £150 Easy to pitch as one structure family tent with a generous living area. Tension Band System improves perform Protex® 2000 polyester flysheet Extended front porch for your kit Multiple door entry Capacity: four people Weight: 7.5kg Colour: Ensign/Bluebell

off RRP

KIT FOR CAMP

With the camping season well underway, now’s the time to get equipped with our pitch-perfect options. The items featured are just a small part of our wide camping range

Save £40

off RRP

Vango Orchy 400 Tent Ref 1028070 £160 RRP £200 For families and groups, great value and no compromise on living space. As one pitching keeps inner tent dry Powerflex® fibreglass poles are sturdy and reliable Protex® 3000 polyester flysheet Generous living area and multi-door entry Capacity: Up to four people Weight: 11.5kg Colour: Smoke/Ocean

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Scouts Be Prepared 65 Litre Rucksack Ref 1027425 £31.50 was £45 Fantastic value 65-litre rucksack with adjustable back system, ideal for hiking and trekking. Mesh padded waist/hip belt Padded shoulder straps Four side compression straps Two mesh side pockets Lower compartment will take a small lightweight sleeping bag Raincover Weight: 1.8kg Volume: 65 litres

15% offP

Gelert Aluminium Kitchen Cupboard and Stand Ref 1024795 £68 was £79.99

This unit is made for outdoor cooking and food preparation at camp. Windshield and storage cupboard included Lightweight, easily assembled Weight: 8.3kg Main table: 66x35x80cm Left table: 58x40x71cm Right table: 29x40x72cm Material: Polyester, Aluminium frame.

Save 30% Gelert Double Folding Table Ref 1025499 £34 RRP £40 A table for a large group of people that folds flat for easy storage when not in use. Open it up for meal times. Lightweight aluminium frame Fibre top board and steel legs for increased stability Size: 120x60x70cm Weight: 5.9kg

Coleman 36 Qt Excursion™ Cooler Ref 1023859 £52 RRP £59.99 A practical and robust cooler. Cooling performance 26 hours 40 mins with Freez’pack® Capacity: 34 litres Holds: 9x1.5-litre bottles Size: 57.6x37.5x34cm Weight: 3.1kg

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off RRP

Find more online at www.scouts.org.uk/shop or call 01903 766 921

Save 30%

Scouts Be Prepared 35 Litre Daysack Ref 1027424 £17.50 was £25 Robust, fantastic value 35-litre daysack for overnight camping, hiking or trekking. Adjustable foam padded shoulder straps Padded waist belt with adjustable straps Weight: 0.9kg

Available mid June

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off RRP

Al l Scout Shops prof its are retu rned to The Scout Association

Gelert Albury Hi-Back Executive Chair Ref 1026371 £25 was £29 This chair is great for relaxing in while camping or at festivals. It comes with a drinks holder and is easy to store away with its handy carry case. Material: Steel frame, 600D polyester seating material Size: 53x62x38/97cm Weight: 3.4kg Colour: Riviera blue

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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Stay safe in the sun Get set for summer with these health-check tips to keep you and your Scouts safe

Positive reaction Nettles. Pollen. Insects. For some people, summer can be a potential minefield of sneezing, itchy eyes and sleepless nights. But did you know that hay fever alone affects 20 per cent of Britons? According to John Collard, clinical director of Allergy UK, hay fever is an allergy caused by the body making antibodies to certain triggers, such as pollen. As with most allergies, the best way to control hay fever is to avoid triggers. Follow this advice: 1. Limit exposure to pollens by keeping windows shut at night and first thing in the morning.

2. Stay indoors when the pollen count is high (between 50-150). 3. Wear wraparound sunglasses to stop pollen getting in your eyes. 4. Put some Vaseline inside nostrils, which will trap some of the pollen. You can do some of these when on a Scouting activity, but it’s difficult to avoid pollen during the summer. Find out before your summer camp if any of your Scouts have hay fever. If you are prepared, it should mean that everyone can enjoy some summer adventure. See factsheet Allergies (FS250051), available from The Scout Information Centre, or www.scouts.org.uk/infocentre

Bones for life

Here comes the sun When the sun does come out, make sure you and your Scouts aren’t caught short. ‘Sunburn is dangerous at any age, but it’s especially harmful in children and young people,’ says Katy Scammell from Cancer Research UK’s SunSmart campaign. Ideally, try to stay in the shade between 11am and 3pm. In Scouting this can be unavoidable, especially at camp, so include sun

cream, hat and long sleeves as an essential in the kit list. Also use a sun protection factor (SPF) cream of 15 or more, waterproof variety if necessary. The same applies to you and your leadership team. The most vulnerable areas on women are the legs and arms, for men it’s the chest and back. And with 100,000 new cases of skin cancer every year in Britain, it’s vital to keep an eye on your moles. If worried, visit your GP. www.sunsmart.org.uk

Everyone thinks that osteoporosis is something that only affects older people, but poor diet and a lack of sunlight and exercise can lead to young people storing up problems that could haunt them in later life. The National Osteoporosis Society aims to provide teachers, parents and youth leaders with a resource hub, which can communicate to children the knowledge of healthy bones and the importance of a bone-healthy lifestyle. This is available at www.bones4life.org

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Health & wellbeing

Safety around the water Whether you’re on a Scouting activity or with your family you’ll probably find yourself passing lakes, rivers or canals. They may seem like great places to have a quick dip and cool off but they can hold hidden dangers. The ASA, the national governing body for all things swimming, knows that the water in these places can be colder and this can make you tired more quickly. Currents can drag you away from safety and there may be things hidden in the water. ‘Every year around 400-500 people drown and drowning is among one of the most common accidental killers of children,’ says Lauren Sanderson from ASA. The safest place to swim is at the beach protected by qualified lifeguards. When doing activities near the water, make sure you keep safe, plan your trip, have enough supervision and the Group keep within the areas you designate. For more information and advice go to www.scouts.org.uk/watersafety and www.swimming.org/gs4s For The Scout Association’s swimming rules, select ‘Swimming’ at www.scouts.org.uk/a-z

e Take the fitness challeng Scouting is centred on young people being active. But are you practising what you preach? Adults need a minimum of 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity, at least five days a week (for children and young people the target is at least 60 minutes a day). And it’s no fun planning a ten-mile hike with your Scouts if you think you will be struggling at the back. ‘You don’t have to do it all in one go,’ says fitness expert Nicki Waterman. ‘Shorter bursts of activity throughout the day add up to the total amount.’ For the activity to count towards your 30 minutes, it should make you feel warm and slightly out of breath. Write your half hour of activity in a diary. It will help you to stay focused, and motivate you throughout the week. Here are just a few of Nicki’s top tips for building exercise into your lifestyle:

The office worker

Cycle or walk part, if not all, of your journey to work. Get off one bus or tube stop before your final destination. Walk over to someone’s desk at work rather than speaking to them by phone. Take the stairs instead of the lift. Or get out of the lift a few floors early then use the stairs. Go for a walk during your lunch break. Try to find

different walks, and alternate between them during the week. Use your lunch break to exercise. Your office may have a gym, or you may have access to a nearby swimming pool or squash courts.

The busy parent

Exercise with your child. Take them to the swimming pool or play in the garden or park. Unappealing as it sounds, housework is a good workout, but it depends at what pace you do it. And music will help you dance to the beat.

The previously active

Remind yourself why you were previously active, what your motivations were and what you got out of it. Choose an activity you enjoy. Don’t start exercising with the same intensity, frequency and duration as before. If you’ve been inactive for several years, start slowly and work your way up.

The retired

As you get older it’s even more important to stay active. Exercise will help you to stay mobile and independent in your later years. Work in the garden or mow the grass. Go out for a short walk. Start with five to ten minutes, then gradually do 30 minutes, increasing the pace from leisurely to brisk. Consider community-based activities in your area.

stay healthy For specific guidance on staying healthy while at camp, see the new Nights Away book, available from scouts.org.uk/shop. The NHS website provides general guidance on all things healthrelated. See www.nhs.uk

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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s p i h s r e n t par ort Scouting, come on board to supp ve ha es ni pa m co of r initiative A numbe g a badge, an event or an whether it’s by sponsorin Sainsbury’s Wall’s

Sponsors: Active Kids and The Big Adventure. Resources and equipment available. www.scouts.org.uk/sainsburys

Sponsors: The Big Adventure and The Scout Camp Cook Badge. Resources coming soon. www.scouts.org.uk/walls

Chubb Omsco

Sponsors: Scout Fire Safety Activity Badge. Activity packs available. www.scouts.org.uk/chubb

Edam Cheese Sponsors: Cub Scout Chef Activity Badge. Activity packs available. www.scouts.org.uk/edam

Eat in Colour Sponsors: Beaver Scout Healthy Eating Activity Badge. Resources available. www.scouts.org.uk/healthyeating

Garmin Sponsors: Scout Hiker Activity Badge. Resources available. www.scouts.org.uk/garmin

Mattel Sponsors: Beaver Scout Creative Activity Badge. Resources available. www.scouts.org.uk/hotwheels

Merlin Offers available to UK attractions. www.scouts.org.uk/merlin

Sponsors: The Cub Scout Global Conservation Badge. Resources coming soon. www.scouts.org.uk/omsco

Ordnance Survey Sponsors: The Scouts and Cubs Navigators badge. Resources available. www.scouts.org.uk/ ordnancesurvey

Pets at Home Sponsors: Beaver Animal Friend and Cub Animal Carer Badges. Resources coming soon. www.scouts.org.uk/petsathome

Puffin Sponsors: Scout Adventure Challenge Award. Posters and skills cards available. www.scouts.org.uk/puffin

Regatta Sponsors: Scout Outdoor Challenge Award. Activity packs available. www.scouts.org.uk/regatta

Microsoft Rolls-Royce

Sponsors: IT Staged Badge. Resources available. www.scouts.org.uk/microsoft

Sponsors: Cub Scout Scientist Badge. Activity packs available. www.scouts.org.uk/rollsroyce

National Grid Serco Environment

Sponsors: Cub Scout Home Safety Activity Badge. Activity packs available. www.scouts.org.uk/nationalgrid

Natural England Sponsors: Cub and Scout Naturalist Badge. Resources available. www.scouts.org.uk/naturalengland

Sponsors: Environment Partnership Award. Activity packs available. www.scouts.org.uk/serco

Venture Abroad Adventure holidays for Scouts. www.scouts.org.uk/ventureabroad

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Partnerships

Hitting home

When Casey Robinson received an email entitled ‘Chile’, he knew his first deployment as a ShelterBox Response Team (SRT) member was imminent. Here, he recounts his experiences in the aftermath of an earthquake in Talca I’d never been on a deployment before, but looking around Talca made me realise the enormity of the task ahead. The city had been badly damaged by the earthquake, with buildings and homes completely destroyed. After assessing a few areas, we made the decision to start distributing ShelterBoxes in a town north of Talca called Molina. We committed 112 boxes to Molina, enough shelter and life-saving supplies for more than 1,100 people. After a few days there, we moved south back to the Talca region. During the two days we were there, we committed another 30 boxes, working alongside local community centres and some Scouts. The Scouts were a big help and grasped what we were doing very quickly after a short demonstration. After a week in Molina and Talca, we headed south to Coronel on the coast, to meet with the rest of our team. The coast had not only been ravaged by the earthquake, but also hit by the tsunami. I assisted the team before returning home on 7 April.

Sheer joy After returning from my first deployment, I was hit by an enormous sense of calm, relief, and exhaustion. I began to realise the

magnitude of what ShelterBox does and was reminded of why I got involved to begin with. Emotions came barrelling through me when I saw the sheer joy on families’ faces as they received their box.

How you’ve met the challenge There’s been a massively positive response to the ShelterBox Challenge, with over 600 groups signing up and taking part. Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorer Scouts are finding out all about ShelterBox by completing challenges to gain a ShelterBox Badge.

Since January, ShelterBoxes have gone to: Chile China Egypt Fiji Haiti Kenya Mexico Peru Uganda

Visit www. youngshelterbox. org for more details

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Let’s go wild

This summer, Natural England stages Let’s Go Wild, a range of special events at nature reserves up and down the country

The summer is a great time to explore the great outdoors, see some of the country’s wildlife up close, and try out some new activities. Through Let’s Go Wild you could have a go at animal tracking and learn survival skills like shelter building. There are loads of activities to try. National Nature Reserves are also great places for Scouts to complete their Naturalist Activity Badge. They cover a fantastic range of habitats, from magical woodlands to open

heaths, and sensational seashores to mystical marshes – each perfect for exploring.

Not just for summer Natural England staff may be able to help you find out more about plants and animals that live on the reserves. Our reserves are home to some of England’s rarest wildlife and greatest natural spectacles, which means there’s something different happening all year round.

ARE YOU WILD ENOUGH?

Make sure you’re not missing out and visit one of Natural England’s National Nature Reserves this summer. There are over 200 to choose from, with the aptly named Kinder Scout in Derbyshire one of the newest.

www.naturalengland.org.uk/millionchildren

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Summer tastes m a d E h t i w r e t t be

Chef Badge sponsor Original Dutch Edam has cooked up another lip-smacking recipe â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the perfect addition to your summer barbecue!

Summerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s here, and so are some new, fantastic activity packs to help you do the Cub Scout Chef Activity Badge. You can order packs of 10 or 25, or download free on the Edam pages at www.scouts.org.uk The Original Dutch Edam wedge and ball is incredibly versatile. Slice it to top off your burger, have it cubed in your salad, or grate and grill it to add some exciting variety to a traditional barbecue spread. Cubs can use this recipe for Bean Burgers to help get their Chef Activity Badge, or see more options at www.edammade.co.uk

S WIT EDAM BEAN BURGER

H TOMATO RELISH

Serves: 4 Preparation: 15 mins + chilling Cooking: 10 mins

3 tbsp flat leaf parsley, chopped 1 tbsp olive oil Juice of half a lemon

Ingredients 100g Original Dutch Edam wedge, cut into very small cubes 55g pine nuts, toasted 2 x 300g cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed 5 spring onions, chopped 2 tbsp sun-dried tomato paste 75g fresh breadcrumbs 1 egg, beaten Sunflower oil for frying

Method Place a frying pan over a medium heat and lightly toast the pine nuts for 2-3 minutes until golden. Place the beans in a large bowl and mash well with a potato masher or fork. Add the Edam, pine nuts, onion, tomato paste and a third of the breadcrumbs and season. Gently mix ingredients together. Shape the mixture into 8 burgers. Coat the outside of each burger first with the beaten egg, then with the remaining breadcrumbs. Cover and chill in the fridge for 20 minutes. Mix all the tomato relish and serve.

For the relish: 4 ripe tomatoes, diced 1 red pepper, de-seeded and diced 1 garlic clove, crushed

SAY CHEESE!

Take a photo of your Scouts creating some delicious summer dishes at camp and send it to edam@ beattiegroup.com

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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Competition

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classified

Appropriate Scout Association authorisation is required by leaders and adults running activities and events, even when using products and equipment supplied by commercial companies. Inclusion in this listing does not imply endorsement by The Scout Association.

suppliers

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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suppliers Fire Barrels STRONG STABLE STURDY n Complete Kit includes: Barrel, Legs & Grid n Can be sold separately n Self Supporting Legs. No Assembly Required n 3 Leg Heights n Easily Transported Visit www.tanmill.co.uk Call 01902 880991

See website for current designs

Portable: • Cooking • Heating • Detachable legs & chimney • Spark Arrestor • Carry Bag Ideal for: • BBQs • Camping • Caravanning • Fishing • Patio & Garden Heating • Outdoor Entertaining

DAys out & camping

01323 830642 or 0798 1738 151 www.ozpig.co.uk email: ozpig@ozpig.co.uk Have fun; play; enjoy; ride; discover; learn; nature & even camp – Wellington Country Park has it all!! Discount prices for groups available!

See website for details www.wellington-country-park.co.uk

Wellington Country Park, Odiham Road, Riseley, Near Reading, Berkshire, RG7 1SP 0118 932 6444

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ACTIVITIES & ACTIVITY CENTRES RIDING/TREKKING/CAMPING

in the wild mountains of wales. Beautiful back to basics campsite, with tree-lined, clear-water stream. Exhilarating riding on kind responsive horses. Join in grooming and tacking up, demonstrations and advice always given. W.T.R.A. Approved. A.A.L.A. Registered. W.T.B. Accredited. Est over 50 years.

GRANGE TREKKING, Capel-y-ffin, Abergavenny, Mon, NP7 7NP Wales www.grangetrekking.co.uk 01873 890 215

01403 734424 adrian@southwatersports.co.uk www.southwatersports.co.uk

• Group tuition • Windsurfing, Canoeing, Sailing, Archery, Raft Building • Camping, Café, Bar, Disco, Games room • 1st aid courses Croft Farm Leisure & Water Park Tewkesbury, Glos. GL20 7EE 01684 772321 Email tom@croftfarmleisure.co.uk

WANTED Kayaking Kayak Coaching Windsurfing Sailing Raft Building for groups & individuals Children’s Holiday Courses

MIDLANDS Burton upon Trent Needwood Forest Scout Campsite Centrally heated, fully equipped, 28 bed building, plus 2 acres woodland & 2 acres field. Central to Peak District National Park. Cannock Chase, Alton Towers, Waterworld, Drayton Manor Park, Snowdome and Twycross Zoo.

OLD WALKING BOOTS

NEEDED PLEASE DONATE! Contact Ian Giling at Earl Shilton Scouts for further information. Tel: 01455 446094 Send to: 5 Sunnydale Road, Hinkley, Leicestershire, LE10 0PB

EMPLOYMENT

From Zorb Balls to Robotsoccer From Inflatables to Bungee Trampolines We have something for all budget sizes

Call NOW on 0800 334581 www.leisurematters.com Also view our YouTube link http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJUR1Nz6xdI to see the WINGS event

Get paid to use your Scouting skills!

Brian Reeves 01283 546536

Raw Adventure Day Camps are running throughout SE England this summer, and we need Programme Managers and Facilitators. Apply online to teach kids aged 8-14 a mixture of pioneering, survival skills, outdoor games and craft.

Email: needwoodforest@talktalk.net

www.rawadventurecamps.co.uk Get involved!

For full details telephone

Providers of the fun activity equipment for WINGS 2009

MID WALES

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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club fundraising ‘Phil’ the Bag ™ Boost Your Scouts Funds By Holding A FREE ‘Phil’ the BagTM Recycle Day • Fill our FREE ‘Phil’ the BagTM sacks with your unwanted clothes and shoes • Gather them up for us to collect and weigh. Receive your certificate and cheque within 28 days. It’s that easy! • As well as your Scout group, you’ll be doing your best to help the environment too!

So if you want a quick, easy and fun way to raise some funds, why not call us now!

camping directory BEAUDESERT PARK 124 acres of parkland adjoining Cannock Chase Country Park, Staffordshire. Camping for 1000 people, 37 different woodland sites. Modern toilet facilities with hot water and free showers. 6 accommodation buildings catering from 12 to 24, fully equipped and heated. Activities include Hiking, Archery, Climbing Wall, Orienteering, Pioneering, Rafting, Low Ropes, Abseiling, Zip Wire, Crate stacking, Tree Climbing, Jacobs Ladder, Go Karts, Indoor Games Room, Crafts. Many nearby offsite attractions. Ideal for D of E Expeditions.

Email info@philthebag.co.uk or call 01795 424404 / 425333 www.philthebag.co.uk We are a family-run textile recycling company, founded over 80 years ago and a member of the Textile Recycling Association

Check Availability and Book On-line @ www.beaudesert.org

Brochure: info@beaudesert.org Telephone: 01543 682278 Fax: 01543 682623

holidays abroad

On the edge of the Peak District

BARNSWOOD CAMP has 23 secluded camping glades in deep woodland with easy parking nearby, good toilet facilities. Good local climbing areas, low ropes course, orienteering course, water activities on Rudyard Lake. Hiking and Caving in the Peak Park. Alton Towers down the road. For info: 01260 270205

barnswood@gondor.plus.com www.barnswoodscoutcamp.co.uk manufacturers and retailers www.glasgowscoutshop.com

NEW ZEALAND TRIPS Nov 2010 & Feb 2011

To advertise here, please contact September on

Join in the fun and fellowship For adult members, ex members & friends

020 8962 2952 or email

Email Guides NZ: jenniferann@xtra.co.nz

thinkpublishing.co.uk

september.withers@

Equipping you for your Scouting adventures!

holidays www.jeka-groupholidays.co.uk Widest range of Summer Camps available to 10 different European destinations by coach or air.

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19/05/2010 12:19

Round our place

Young Leader Jack Coope is at agricultural college, but in his spare time he leads the allotment project that has got the whole of the 1st Heage Scout Group digging, planting and growing their way to a balanced diet

Photography by Jemma Cox

ver the summer, our Scout meetings tend to move from the village school, which we hire, to the allotment patch we’ve had since last year. It’s not the normal sort of meeting place, but there’s always plenty to do. With the help of the council and a grant from the NHS, we got hold of a disused plot of land on the allotment in the village. To say it was overgrown would be a huge understatement, but after setting to it with a mini-digger and some chainsaws, we had something to work with.

GROWING OUR OWN Bumper crop Last year, we got it ready and grew our first vegetables. A lot of work went in to it, with the Explorers getting their hands dirty, and the crop we produced was more than anyone expected. Apparently, a couple of the older blokes, who have had an allotment for years, had a bet going on about whether we’d grow anything at all. But we showed them. This year, even more is planned. We’ve begun keeping chickens, reclaiming them from battery farms and giving them free range in a coop we built from waste material on local building sites. We’ve named all the chickens (it’s harder to eat something with a name) and the first one’s named after the Group Scout Leader!

Now we’re buzzing As well as growing potatoes, onions and radishes, we’ve planted the free seeds from the BBC’s Dig In and we’ve got some more unusual things in there like raspberry spinach,

white cucumber and yellow beans from www.originaltouch.co.uk. The Beavers, Cubs and Scouts all have their own growing beds, and will be responsible for tending to them. Our main project for this year is that we are now keeping honey bees, starting with one colony and building from there. We love being outdoors; it makes a change from being in the hall. It’s probably similar to how the hens feel after being in battery cages. This project has brought the whole Group closer together, and working on it makes everyone absolutely certain that growing your own is not only great fun, but tastes better, too.

get growing Learn more about the 1st Heage Scout Group and its allotment project at www.scouts.org.uk/digin where you can also find advice and programme ideas for growing your own grub.

Tell us

If you’d like us to come round your place, drop us a line at scouting. magazine@ scouts.org.uk

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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Interview

Five miles with…

The Natural Navigator A childhood experience took Tristan Gooley back to nature and started an obsession with tool-free navigation. Scouting located Tristan on the South Downs and tried to find north

Photography by Paul Kubalek

Scouting magazine: What was your Scouting experience like? Tristan: I had a great time as a Scout. It gave me a bit of freedom away from the structure of school. My favourite bits were the times we learned through games. I remember one called Pigeon Whistle, where we had to track the Scout Leader in a wood without being detected by ‘guards’. It gave me an early insight into how understanding your surroundings can help you get ahead. SM: What is natural navigation? TG: It’s finding your way without instruments like a map and compass. Nature gives us so many clues to help us find our way, like moss, lichen and the shape of trees.

much enjoyment to be had in just taking a look around you and asking yourself, ‘Where am I?’ and, ‘Where am I going?’ With GPS and a compass, we can be in danger of taking so much for granted. Even the youngest Beaver Scout can find the North Star.

Natural navigators interpret these clues to find direction. SM: What inspired you to do this? TG: My interest began when I was ten. I’d just done four days of a sailing course, and on the fifth day the instructor asked me, ‘Where do you want to go?’ The thought that I could be the master of my own destiny captured my imagination, and I’ve been hooked on navigation ever since. SM: Can anyone learn to navigate without tools, or is it a specialist science? TG: On the contrary, I see it more as an art. There’s so

SM: So should we put down the GPS and take to the hills? TG: I’m all for technology, and it’s certainly helped me in some of the expeditions I’ve undertaken. But there’s something to be said for taking pleasure not only in reaching the destination, but in the journey itself.

get the book The Natural Navigator by Tristan Gooley is published by Virgin Books. Get 35 per cent off at www.rbooks.co.uk using the code SCOUTING. Offer valid until 1 September 2010. Learn more about natural navigation and Tristan at www.scouts.org.uk/tv

Last laugh by Ian West

It doesn’t get much easier than this. Microwaveable stew and dumplings

Smile, Skip… You’re going to be on Facebook

Do you know what a GSL is? Because we’ve just said you’d like to be one…

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ov er fo 10 XT ne RE r w M an E L d ex eve cit l in in g ch Liv e al le rp ng o in ol g ac tiv iti es

N E 2 W 0 1 0

NEW ADVENTURE ATTRACTION

Jungle Parc is a thrilling tree trekking adventure, test your skills on our amazing courses packed with exciting activities, zip lines, cargo nets, tarzan swings,flying trapeze,wobbly logs,and monkey nets to name a few! with over 60 different activities and 2 amazing courses catering for all ages and abilities (age from 4+ min height 1.05m) perfect for a family day out, group outing or team building event. Discounts available for scouts/guides/groups book online at www.jungleparc.co.uk or call 08448794378 we have two sites in the UK North West England Liverpool Croxteth Country Park

Midlands Northamptonshire Irchester Country Park Wellingborough

BOOK ONLINE www.jungleparc.co.uk IBC_Scouting_JunJuly10.indd 2

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