Scouting April/May 2014

Scouting

2014 April/May

APRIL/MAY 2014

IrN W nded ut b a h

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ÂŁ450 61 Page

Spread the word Top tips for promoting your Scout Community Week project

Parent power Meet the mums and dads of Jarrow who set up a new Colony for their children

Meeting place makeovers Ideas and inspiration for giving HQs a new lease of life

REACHING OUT How young carers progress from isolation to integration – thanks to Scouting

Scouting Editors Lee Griffiths, Matthew Jones, Antonia Kanczula, Vicky Milnes and Kevin Yeates With thanks to... Stuart Carter, Ralph Doe, Pat Gilks, Graham Haddock, Tim Kidd, Austin Lill, Terry Longhurst, Wendy MacDonald, Neil Robst, Graham Steed, David Stokes, Andy Wyllie The national magazine of The Scout Association ISSN 0036 – 9489 © 2014 The Scout Association Registered Charity Numbers: 306101 (England and Wales) and SC038437 Published by The Scout Association, Gilwell Park, Chingford, London E4 7QW Tel: 0845 300 1818 Fax: 020 8433 7103 Email: scouting.magazine@scouts.org.uk Website: scouts.org.uk/magazine Please send all 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.

Scouting is produced by Immediate Media Branded Content, 6th Floor, Tower House, Fairfax Street, Bristol BS1 3BN Editor Anna Scrivenger Art Editor James Daniel Project Manager Ian Ochiltree Director of Immediate Media Branded Content Julie Williams Group Publishing Director Alfie Lewis Cover Image Jon Challicom ADVERTISING Advertising Manager Tom Parker Email: tom.parker@immediate.co.uk Tel: 0117 314 8781 It is important to note the differing structures of UK Scouting in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. However, for ease of reading this supplement refers to all variations of ‘County’-level groupings simply as County.

You can read Scouting magazine and Get Active! online at scouts.org.uk/magazine.

116,700 average UK circulation of Scouting (1 Jan–31 Dec 2013) © Immediate Media Branded Content. Printed in the UK by William Gibbons. All rights reserved. Unauthorised reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without written permission. Every effort has been made to secure permission for copyright material. In the event of any material being used inadvertently, or where it proved impossible to trace the copyright owner, acknowledgement will be made in a future issue.

This magazine can be recycled, for use in newspapers and packaging.

Please remove any gifts, samples or wrapping and dispose of it at your local collection point.

PEFC/16-33-795

We are proud to say Scouting is PEFC certified. For more information go to pefc.co.uk. Promoting sustainable forest management.

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Spring in your step

Find us and exclusive extras at SCOUTS. ORG.UK/ E MAGAZIN

There’s something innately exciting about springtime – there is so much possibility, positivity and energy in the air. The start of the new season is a great time to set some new goals, make plans and challenge yourself.

This issue of Scouting is all about growth and new beginnings. On page 18 read about a dynamic new Beaver Colony in Jarrow, where parents took the initiative to expand Scouting. In the spirit of renewal and regeneration, feel inspired by some incredible HQ makeovers from page 36. And on pages 44–48, find out about the fresh opportunities being offered to young carers in the north west.

You don’t need me to tell you that as the weather warms up and the days get longer, this is the perfect time to experience the great outdoors.

As flora and fauna burst into life, a change of scenery is nothing short of uplifting.

On page 42 you’ve been telling us about how you make the most of the open air with your best campsite innovations.

Draw on your natural reserves of energy and grab opportunities – spring into spring with an upbeat frame of mind! A world of great Scouting adventures awaits you.

Bear Grylls Chief Scout PS. Watch out for #Bearintheair over London and the South East on 10 and 11 May…

Take a look at last year’s Bear in the Air adventure on our YouTube channel, by pointing Layar here.

SCOUTING 3

Every issue we ask three readers to share their thoughts on the subjects we cover. If you fancy joining our reader panel for an issue, email scouting.magazine@scouts.org. uk to sign up. And keep an eye out for our handy reader panel stamp throughout the magazine.

ON THE COVER 18 Parent power

We asked our readers… How has Scouting changed your life?

44

Graham Steed, Scout Leader ‘I signed up as an eight-year-old Cub and 27 years later I’m still here. I can’t remember much about life before.

I reckon I’d have far fewer friends though, and a lot more spare time.

Without Scouts I think I’d be bored!’

Terry Longhurst, Scout Leader ‘Scouting has been my foster parent. My own parents separated when I was young which made my life challenging, especially after a remarriage occurred. We moved from a rural village to London when I was nine – it was a bit scary. I joined Cubs at 10, and I could be myself. I loved every minute of it – my leader gave up so much time for us.’

Wendy MacDonald, Group Scout Leader ‘My Scouting roles keep me pretty busy, but also enrich my life. It’s a privilege to work with a fantastic team of adults and see young people enjoying themselves and achieving so much.

I’ve made many friends through Scouting and met a lot of people; my self-confidence has grown and I enjoy being part of something so worthwhile. Arriving at our HQ or at an event outdoors I immediately feel the atmosphere of fun and excitement. This makes my day.’

4 SCOUTING

29 36

The mums and dads who created a Colony for their kids Promote your project Get your Scout Community Week activities noticed Home improvements Scout Groups renovate and restore their HQs Caring for carers How Scouting provides a respite for Britain’s young carers

UP FRONT

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13 15 16

News The latest Scouting snippets Housekeeping Find out more about Compass What’s on Get out and about as Scouting gears up for the busy season Mailbox You, your news and your say

FEATURES

32

42

Closer ties Twin your Group to make Scouting friends overseas Crazy camp inventions It’s amazing what a bit of fresh air can do for innovation…

Unlock hidden extras Wherever you see this icon in this magazine, you can view hidden extras via your Smartphone or tablet.

44 REGULARS

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27 66

Wayne’s word This issue’s message from the UK Chief Commissioner Our vision Why growth is important within the Scouting Movement Last word TV presenter Chris Packham on his passion for nature

THE KNOWLEDGE 51

52 55 57 58 61

Volunteer Alex Wise’s daring rescue earned him an award Advice Your questions answered Smoking Responsible cigarette use Food A Cub’s creation: the campfire breakfast sandwich Walk Explore the breathtaking Brecon Beacons in Wales Puzzles Win Scout goodies

Unlock hidden extras

Download Layar from your app store, open the app then simply point your phone camera at the page and watch what happens on your screen!

April/May 2014

Joining forces to offer Scouting for all Chief Commissioner Wayne Bulpitt on the ways in which Scouting helps young people overcome adversity

IN THE DIARY

Here’s where Wayne will be in the coming weeks…

April

4/5 UKCC team 11/12 Rotary Int’l National 27

I

recently enjoyed a wonderful evening with the London Chamber Orchestra and a choir from Meath School, near Woking. The orchestra was fab, but the highlight of the evening was the singing by the young people. This may sound nothing out of the ordinary, but it was extra special because each student has communication difficulties, some so severe they are unable to speak.

Singing gives them the confidence to help overcome these difficulties.

So too would easy access to Scouting.

Young carers are another group for whom Scouting has so much to offer if only we can make it welcoming and easily accessible. You can find out on page 44 about Groups that are doing this for young carers right now.

6 SCOUTING

Our ‘learning by doing’ ethos can make a real difference to young people’s lives

May 3 3

‘Scouting can give the confidence to help overcome difficulties’ Just like singing, the opportunities for non-formal learning (learning by doing) that Scouting offers can and do make a real difference to young people’s lives, especially when they are faced with adversity in some way.

We don’t have to solve this alone.

Charities like I CAN, Scope and The Prince’s Trust, to name just three, are very happy to work with us to provide the practical support necessary to help us ensure that Scouting really is for all as we deliver our Vision for the future.

Conference National Celebrations, Windsor

7 9 10 16 17 25

Muslim Scout Fellowship young people’s camp Central Nottingham Commonwealth Camp NI team meeting Hampshire WWI service National archery competition WSC delegation meeting England team meeting Greater Manchester West 40th anniversary celebration

ASK WAYNE

Got a question for our Chief Commissioner? Wayne can answer your queries at escouts. org.uk/forum (click on Forum, then Question Time). You can also read Wayne’s weekly blog at: members.scouts.org.uk/ccblog.

April/May 2014

April/May 2014

The latest Scouting news and unmissable events

YOUNG VOICES Survey reveals shared ideas

I

Picture: Jon Challicom

For more feedback from our young people across the UK, check out be.scouts.org.uk

Watch the Be… video and see what our young people think we should be doing more of.

scouts.org.uk/magazine

n a groundbreaking initiative, we’ve been asking our young people to tell us how they think Scouting can become even bigger and better by 2018. So far 2,500 Scouts aged 12–25 have shared their views on the Vision Towards 2018 through workshops, a national survey and the be.scouts.org.uk microsite; they’ve told us how they think Scouting can grow, be more inclusive, change communities and become more of a partnership between adults and young people.

A number of common themes have emerged.

For example, our young people would like to see an advertising campaign aimed at showing just how exciting and fun it is to be a Scout. To make Scouting more accessible, they asked if we could subsidise fees for poorer families and make sure they knew about it. They’d like to see training for volunteers so we can welcome more young people with additional needs.

They also believe we could be more visible by getting involved in more community events and having a presence with local decision makers, such as council meetings and resident associations.

To help Scouting become more youth-shaped, they’d like more say in organising and shaping parts of the programme; and would like to join forums at County/Area/Region and District levels and get stuck into more planning, including meetings with UK Chief Commissioner, Wayne Bulpitt.

SCOUTING 9

Special guest Phil Packer gave a moving speech at Reunion 2013.

Point Layar here to view it.

NEW NIGHTS AWAY KIT LIST NOW AVAILABLE

A brand-new kit list is now available to help young people plan for camping, sleepovers and other nights away. From sleeping bags and roll mats to torches and toothbrushes, the new kit list is supported by Vango and Scout Shops who also provide expert advice. Available at scouts.org.uk/ kit-list and scouts.org.uk/shop.

Reunion is back Taking place at Gilwell Park Scout Activity Centre on 5–7 September, this year’s twoday extravaganza marks the 88th Reunion.

Hundreds of adults and Network members will descend on Gilwell for one of the most hotly anticipated events of the year, to celebrate Scouting, learn new skills and socialise.

Kicking off with great entertainment on Friday and an array of stalls on Saturday and Sunday, Reunion 2014 will offer ideas and

RECRUIT IN STYLE BADEN-POWELL GRANDSON LAUNCHES BOOK

The grandson of Scouting’s founder, Lord Baden-Powell, has published his first book: The Diary of a Dog. ‘Written’ in the first person by Bandit, a retired greyhound, it’s a comic account of his life with owner, Bertie, and companion and fellow rescue dog, Willow. ‘The book will resonate with anyone who has been owned by a dog,’ says Lord Baden-Powell. The book is available from Scout Shops at the special price of £10 and all royalties go to Celia Cross Greyhound Trust.

10 SCOUTING

Summer’s a great time to get out and shout about Scouting – and recruit new members.

Draw crowds at your event by hiring The Scout Association’s mobile display unit (MDU); a ready-made, eye-catching presence that showcases the Scouting adventure. It’s equipped with display material and leaflets, a bouldering wall, two giant Jenga towers, a giant Connect and two pop-up tents, plus audiovisual equipment you can use to showcase your own local Scouting.

If you’d like MDU training, there’s an open day on Sunday 7 June in the West Midlands.

Find out more by searching ‘mobile display unit’ in the Member Resources area of scouts.org.uk.

inspiration for both new and experienced leaders to take back to their Groups, plus activities and special guests. Last year’s line-up included Scout Ambassador Phil Packer, who moved the Reunion crowds with an emotive speech.

To book and find out how you can get involved, visit scouts.org.uk/reunion. If you have a skill or something you want to share, register on the website and one of the Reunion Organising Team will be in touch.

JAPAN 2015

Laughing all the way to Japan A Scout has written and published his very own joke book in a bid to raise £3,000 to attend the 2015 World Scout Jamboree.

Thomas, 13, from Bolton, published A Joke a Day Keeps the Doctor Away! before Christmas – and so far it’s raised over £400.

It includes witty gags such as: ‘What animal hibernates standing on its head? Yoga Bear.’

Thomas said: ‘I like the joy that people get from telling the jokes.’

Order the book for a minimum donation of £1 from Thomas’s Scout Group by emailing jamboree2015@outlook.com.

April/May 2014

UPFRONT

View all the incredible HQs you built in our Scout LEGO gallery.

Join a project in Birmingham that will inspire Scouts nationwide

The best Scout HQ ever?

In the December/January issue of Get Active! we challenged Scouts to build their dream HQs from LEGO, with Scout minifigs prizes up for grabs.

We had some amazing entries, but one submission from 2nd Market Drayton Scouts really stood out. Their winning HQ design boasted an array of features including an archery area; splash zone for boating, diving and swimming; forest for backwoods cooking and bivvying; snack bar and solar panels to power the HQ. Inventive and fantastical elements from other entries included impressive climbing walls, eco-friendly wind turbines, underground caves,

waterfalls and zoos – even a unicorn enclosure.

We also had multi-level HQs, floating HQs, HQs on stilts and an air-mobile HQ that could fly anywhere in the world.

Congratulations to the winners, and thanks to everyone who entered – we hope you had lots of fun letting your imaginations run wild.

More info

Scout minifigs are available now at minifigs.me. Order Minifigs T-shirts from scouts.org.uk/shop.

JAMBOREE COUNTDOWN

TAKING A STAND

Over 1,000 UK Scouts have taken a stand in defence of the rights of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community against new, draconian laws introduced in Uganda by David Bahati MP, Chairman of the National Board of the Uganda Scouts Association.

UK Chief Commissioner, Wayne Bulpitt and Chairman, Sir Alan Craft wrote an open letter protesting the new laws, declaring them ‘incompatible with the UN Declaration of Human Rights as well as the values espoused by the Scout Movement’, which received wide public support. On Facebook, Tim Fawell posted: ‘In Britain you can be a gay atheist Scout – this is a good move by the Scouts.’

Adam’s walk

A Scout volunteer has set out on an epic 1,500 mile walk from Land’s End to John O’Groats to raise money for The Scout Association.

Adam Dawson hopes to raise £3,000 for a fund offering bursaries to young people who have been selected for the World Scout Jamboree in Japan 2015 but cannot raise enough money to go.

Adam aims to complete the journey by July. He’ll walk the full length of the UK, with detours to take in England, Wales and Scotland’s highest peaks – Scafell Pike, Snowdon and Ben Nevis. Adam, 55, wants ‘to give something back to Scouting after the organisation, particularly the jamborees, had such a positive impact on my two children’s personal development.’

Chief Scout Bear Grylls paid tribute to Adam’s amazing project: ‘I am so proud to hear of Adam’s mammoth walk to help and inspire others in Scouting.

It’s always humbling to see adults go that extra mile to support young people.

Adam’s walk demonstrates how Scouting impacts communities and I wish him all the best on his journey. What a hero!’

scouts.org.uk/magazine

Follow Adam’s adventures on Twitter @ adamswalk2014.

PRIDE IN INCLUSION

Join us for a great day out at London Pride on 28 June and show Scouting is open to all, including those from the LGBT community. Find out more at scouts.org.uk/pride or email diversity.inclusion @scouts.org.uk.

SCOUTING 11

UPFRONT

The latest on our membership system and Print Centre

Updated resources FS120452 Climbing single pitch FS120656 Motor cruising AC120925 Assessment checklist for motor cruising FS120655 Narrow boating AC120924 Assessment checklist for narrow boating FS120658 Personal watercraft AC120927 Assessment checklist for personal watercraft FS120659 Power boating AC120928 Assessment checklist for power boating FS120104 Adventurous Activity Permit Scheme – Approved Assessors

Deleted factsheets

Explorer Belt info now online at scouts.org.uk/explorerbelt.

FS452030 Explorer Belt: An introduction FS452031 Explorer Belt – Going your own way FS452032 Explorer Belt – Organising a group expedition FS452033 Explorer Belt – Project Suggestions FS452034 Explorer Belt – Useful Contacts FS452035 Explorer Belt – The end game FS452030 Explorer Belt – An introduction FS120003 Bungee Running FS120411 Care, Inspection and Storage of Climbing Equipment FS120413 Motor Sports

COMPASS MAKES LIFE EASIER Compass is The Scout Association’s only online system for storing volunteer, young people and parent data and it is free of charge to its users.

As well as storing data safely and securely, Compass has a powerful set of online tools for members to manage all their Scouting administrative activities, both for local meetings (eg managing sign-ups to a camp) and to complete national requirements (eg processing a new joiner, disclosure checks).

Many Counties/Areas/Regions in the UK have now agreed a date, later this year, for all their members to switch over to Compass. Contact your Compass Champion to find out when you are expected to move over.

You’ll find a list of Compass Champions, along with more information, at scouts.org.uk/compass.

Compass Champions are currently working with members in their County/Area/Region to clean the data on the current national membership system before it is migrated to Compass. All members will be using Compass by the end of 2014.

New at the Print Centre Want to freshen up your local communications? Discover some of these new additions to the Scout Print Centre:

scouts.org.uk/magazine

1 Holding personal data on young people and adults 2 One record per young person as they move up through Scouting 3 Managing youth badges 4 Creating local events 5 Programme planning 6 Managing waiting lists 7 Creating distribution lists 8 Directly email or text members, parents or young people via Compass (no data downloading, no need to use your own email) 9 Fast, efficient systems for updating training and development records 10 Managing permits

JOIN OUR FUN DRAISI CHALLENG E

• Group business card • Welsh translations • Open for business banner • Minifig certificates • Upload and print your own artwork • Scout newsletter Word template • Fundraising Challenge poster To get started, log in to scouts.org.uk/brand with your normal username and password, then click the green Print Centre button on the left-hand side.

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENT SERVICES November 2013

10 ways Compass will make your life easier

0.020% 0.520%

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

EVENT : ............

SCOUTING 13 ............... ...............

VENUE ............... : ............ ............... ............... ... .........

DA

UPFRONT

Upcoming events, training opportunities and noteworthy dates to help you plan your programme

9

MAY

May

MAY

Jurassic coast trek

Trek the most geologically diverse coastline in the world and raise funds for Scouting. The scenery is amazing and full of dinosaur remains. Email challenge.events@scouts.org.uk to find out more.

16–18

17

MAY

MAY

Explorer mountain weekend

Discover the beauty of Snowdonia National Park on this weekend for Explorers and their leaders. Qualified staff will tailor the course to your group’s needs. For details call Yr Hafod Scout Activity Centre on 0845 519 6114 or email yr-haford. sac@scouts.org.uk.

Media and communications

June

5

World Environment Day

Mark this international awareness event by exploring how crucial the environment is with your Group. Check out Programmes Online for activity ideas and find out more at unep.org/wed.

Jamboree On The Trail Join Scouts across the globe as they hike together in this annual event. Whether it’s a stroll through the local park or a mountain trail, Scouts of all ages can take part. Find out more at jott.org.uk.

2–8

JUNE

Scout Community Week

Seize the opportunity for your Group to make a difference and show your community how amazing Scouting is. See page 29 for details; register at scouts. org.uk/communityweek.

Learn how to spread the word about Scouting at this workshop in London, from writing press releases to making the most of social media. Email communications@scouts.org. uk for details.

JUNE

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14

JUNE

Raft building permit

Open to Network and adults, this one-day course at Hawkhirst Scout Activity Centre costs £30 per person.

For more details, email hawkhirst.sac@scouts. org.uk or call 01434 250217.

21–22

JUNE

Fundays

Join us at this fantastic, funfilled event for Beavers, Cubs, Rainbows and Brownies at Gilwell Park and Woodhouse Park Scout Activity Centres; scouts.org.uk/fundays.

Further ahead

Picture: Thinkstock

Gilwell24 11–13 July

The highlight of the year for Explorer Scouts (and Senior Section Guides are welcome too). Get ready for an actionpacked 24 hours of fun, challenge and adventure in Gilwell Park. Check out gilwell24.info for more details.

scouts.org.uk/magazine

British 10k 13 July

Thinking of running a 10k?

Take on this iconic London route. You’ll complete a huge personal challenge and it’s a chance to raise money to help more young people enjoy the adventure. Email challenge. events@scouts.org.uk.

Reunion 5–7 September

Head to Gilwell Park, the home of Scouting, for this brilliant opportunity to catch up with friends, meet new people and learn new Scouting skills.

Don’t miss it – find out more and book your place at scouts. org.uk/reunion.

SCOUTING 15

mailbox April/May 2014

@UKScouting | scouts.org.uk/facebook | scouts.org.uk/TV Email: scouting.magazine@scouts.org.uk | Write to: Scouting magazine, Gilwell Park, Chingford, London E4 7QW

Picture: davebirdphoto.com

PHOTO OF THE MOMENT Cold comforts

In January, 3,000 young people and almost 1,000 adult volunteers enjoyed a fun-packed Wintercamp weekend of frosty adventure at Gilwell Park and Hawkhirst Scout Activity Centre.

David Bird

Enjoy our gallery of reader photos.

PROMISE CHALLENGE

I read with interest your article about the new additional alternative Promise [A New Chapter, Feb/Mar issue]. The comments published were all in favour of alternative promises and it appeared to be a very one-sided article. As an ex-Akela of 30 years, I ask if any thought has been given as to whether leaders (across the sections) will have time to discuss with parents/carers the options before the promises are made? Often, groups of four or five young people are invested at once and leaders are very busy. Up until now I’ve envied those starting out as a new leader. Now I’m not so sure.

Jill Sutton, District Secretary, Meon Valley Scout District

16 SCOUTING

Editor’s response: From the research and feedback we received, there was overwhelming support for our move to offer atheists the opportunity to join Scouting in this way, which is why the article reflected this. Practical questions about how leaders work with alternative Promises are addressed in the FAQs at scouts.org.uk/fundamentals and we are confident that the questions can be covered in the normal course of a young person joining and the leader getting to know them. Programme resources will be updated for leaders to make it even easier to run relevant programmes for Scouts with and without faith.

Emma Foskett @JacobsMummy17

#MyScoutHero My wonderful Son Jacob #aspergers #partiallysighted #hearingloss..loves Cubs, gets stuck in !!

@HD2909 Taking these bad boys

to 1st Minchinhampton Cubs tomorrow night! @stscouts @UKScouting

Karen Robinson Just wanted to

share that our Akela, Wendy Morris, won a community leader award at Bognor Observer Community Awards last night. We are all very proud and feel it was very well deserved.

April/May 2014

UPFRONT

RAISING AWARENESS

@PenistoneScouts Photo shoot for local paper, of our Scouts who are off with @SYScoutsWSJ @syscouts @ukcontingent to Japan 2015 @RealMattLucas To all annoying Cub

Scouts: can you knot?

OVER HEARD

I just received my February/March 2014 issue of Scouting. The article [Optical Health, p 55] is great and Ben [who featured in the article] is really pleased that we’ve been able to spread the word on getting your eyes tested regularly.

Ben had his nasal gastric tube removed yesterday and can now eat and drink again. His eye is recovering following Botox surgery to his muscles which will hopefully sort out his double vision.

Jane Anderson (mother of Ben), ASL, Dane Valley Scout Group

The funny things Scouts say A Scout came up to me and asked: ‘How much do you earn as a leader?’

My son is a new Beaver and said to me: ‘Dad, when am I going to be invented’? I think he meant ‘invested…’

I think we might have to do some Scouting history with our Cubs: ‘Lord Baden-Powell – is he one of the Lord of the Rings people?’

Tweet us using #overheardscouts, get in touch via Facebook or email to tell us what you’ve overheard.

@RunClairey: 1st Sheffield #Scouts

who meet at @SheffChildrens got this last night – made us all smile/cry!

@Renate_Schwarz Yeah sure, if the rope is long enough! @Psneer_BM I’m a frayed knot. @henriksen1 I wasn’t ‘Prepared’ for that. @BrendanLiamT It’s not just a knot. @geezed50 Can you knit? @shelbyguitars What would you rather be or a wasp?

Noah, 6, Beaver Scout. Scan here to find out why he loves Beavers.

KNOTS AND LASHINGS

and lashings form an essential pioneering or angling, knots Whether you’re climbing, and you’ll soon know the Practise in your spare time part of your outdoor knowledge. and a bight . difference between a bend

Rope terminology

STAR LETTER Proud moments

One of our Scouts demonstrated, in a selfless act of humanity, compassion and thoughtfulness, behaviour that illustrates the very core of Scouting at this year’s Wintercamp at Gilwell Park. The tents were freezing, and with mud in abundance, one of our youngest Scouts found his sleeping bag wet and cold in the middle of the night.

One big-hearted Scout gave him the dry sleeping bag he was using and then kept himself warm by putting on all his spare clothes, wrapping himself in a blanket and getting into a bivi-bag. The next day, he didn’t mention it – I got to hear about it through another Scout. We did have spare sleeping bags and blankets in case of emergencies, but no emergency arose because our hero dealt with the situation with what he had. Proud moments like this make being a Scout leader so worthwhile.

Rick Stephens, Assistant Scout Leader, 1st Compton

scouts.org.uk/magazine

M Co ne

a piece of rope has two ends!

You won’t need to be told that ropes it’s useful to understand However, in order to work with their different parts. the terminology used to describe

UÊ Working end

The end of the rope you’re using to tie a knot.

UÊ Standing part Any part between the two ends.

UÊ Standing end

Knots

for thousands of years, and People have been tying knots they remain as vital as ever today. despite modern technology caving and angling, and In sports such as sailing, climbing, fishing, truck driving and even in work such as firefighting, right knot is essential. surgery, the ability to tie the it’s just as important to All knots have a purpose, and is, and when the knot should understand what that purpose at tie it. Using the wrong knot be used, as it is to be able to the wrong time can be dangerous.

How ropes are measured circumference. For

by their Ropes are normally measured 25mm in diameter. example, a 75mm rope is approximately

Hanking a rope

in it from getting knotted while Hanking your rope prevents your thumb and little finger storage. Wrap the rope around the roped bundle together, in a figure of eight. Now, holding and wind the free length firstly remove with your other hand the length. Pull the short over itself, and then back down draws in. Form a loop with the free end to find the loop that it firmly. The hank standing end through, pulling should now be tight. To free the whole rope, pull on both ends.

The opposite end of a rope to that being used to tie the knot.

UÊ « A loop made

PROJECT: A-FRAME SHELTER

As you’d expect, an A-frame shelter resembles a letter ‘A’ when viewed end-on. It’s one of the most popular and versatile kinds of emergency shelter as it can be built relatively quickly, can be built to any size, and is quite sturdy if constructed properly.

Difficulty Before you begin work on your A-frame, check that the site is suitable – for example, don’t build it near an animal trail or ants’ nest. Check that there aren’t any dead branches above you. Think about where the sun rises and sets and the direction of the prevailing wind – you can judge the terrain and surrounding flora to help avoid an exposed position. Avoid lower ground between two high points, as cold air can collect in such places and rain run-off may be a problem.

Spend time selecting and gathering your materials first, so that you can then concentrate on building your shelter in one sustained session. To a certain extent you can improvise the foliage depending on what you find on the forest floor.

by turning the rope back on itself and crossing the standing part.

Total time Allow 1 hour +

FIRELIGHTING TIPS AND TRIC KS

Picking up firelighting skills is much like learning magic – what initially mysterious is revealed seems quite to be quite straightforward . Learn some of these will always stay warm tricks and you in the Great Outdoors.

How to make fire out

How to make fire from

ice

Break a reasonably thick piece of ice from a river or stream (up to 6cm depth is ideal).

Carefully, using a knife or saw, scrape away any dirt or imperfections and begin to form it into a circle. Use the heat from your bare hands to help melt the[ ice into a disc, turning it to prevent your hands from J^[ 7#<hWc[ _i W \Wlekh_j becoming too cold. Once your ice is ready, wedge Z[i_]d e\ ikhl_lWb iY^eebi it securely on its side in an elevated position between the sun [j and your [l[hom^[h[" Xkj Zed¼j \eh] tinder (crumbled, dried leaves for example). Angle the ice so that the sun forms a oekh ]hekdZi^[[j small circle on the tinder.

The tinder should light in dramatic fashion – so stand well back!

UÊ Bight A loop made

Fuzz stick Choose a dry stick around 2–3cm in diameter. Now, using your knife, slice down the stick’s sides making sure that they remain attached. The idea is that the these thin shavings are easier to light than the main stick. If you create a number of fuzz sticks and place them in amongst your larger fuel, this will be an effective way of starting your fire.

How to make fire from

a drinks can

After you’ve drained the last dregs of your fizzy pop, don’t throw away the can (you should recycle it anyway) – the base can be used as a parabolic mirror to train sunlight on your fuel source.

by turning the rope back on itself without crossing the standing part.

The first thing you need to do is increase the reflective surface by rubbing the base of the can for a few minutes with steel wool (toothpaste works too). Keep polishing until you can see your face in the base.

Now hold up the bottom of the can towards the sun. On the end of a small piece of wood, place a tiny bit of bone dry dark-coloured tinder.

Given enough sunlight, the tinder will begin to smoke. You’ll need to experiment moving the end of the stick closer to and further from the can to get the optimum heat from the sun, but about 5cm distance is considered best.

UÊ Bend A knot

used for tying one rope to another.

UÊ Hitch A means of

fastening a rope to another object – such as a post, spar, pole or log – without using a full knot.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE MANUAL

of water

If you really want to impress, how about making fire from water? This takes a lot of practice and patience but it does work.

Put a sheet of cling film in a mug. Half fill the mug and gently lift the cling film, wrapped around the water, to form a water crystal ball. Under bright sunlight hold this crystal ball over your dark-coloured tinder, moving it up and down like a lens until you beam a bright dot of light on to the tinder.

Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes.

Alternatively, take your torch apart and use the reflector.

Remove the bulb and poke the tinder through the hole where the bulb was.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

MANUAL

WRITE IN TO WIN

Our STAR LETTER writer wins a copy of the Outdoor Adventure Manual: Essential Scouting Skills for the Great Outdoors. Available from scouts.org.uk/shop at a special price of £14 (RRP £21.99).

SCOUTING 17

P

Pictures: Wil l Ireland

REAL TROOPERS

Despite having no Scouting experience, local parents have set up a successful Colony

18 SCOUTING

April/May 2014

PARENT POWER REAL TROOPERS

Parents in T yne and W ear are relis challenge t hing the o provide e xciting Sco uting…

WORDS VIC KY MILNES

REAL TROOPERS

5TH JARROW BEAVER COLONY

Jarrow, Tyne and Wear Founded: 2013 Members: Four leaders and 21 Beavers Meet at: Monkton Methodist Church Hall Did you know? The South Tyneside District badge features the Danish flag to illustrate Jarrow’s Viking history.

scouts.org.uk/magazine

SCOUTING 19

REAL TROOPERS

I

t’s Friday night in the town of Jarrow, on the outskirts of Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Rather than winding down after a busy week, volunteers at 5th Jarrow Beaver Colony are gearing up for an intense and action-packed evening in the company of over 20 enthusiastic Beaver Scouts.

A normal Scouting scene, you might think – but rewind six months and none of 5th Jarrow’s volunteers had been involved in Scouting before. Struggling to find afterschool activities for their children in the area, parents attended a taster evening organised by the Regional Development Service (RDS), and have not looked back since. Setting up a Colony for their children was the challenge put to them – and they’ve embraced it wholeheartedly.

Meeting the challenge

‘We knew this would only get off the ground if we were motivated,’ says Angela, an accountant and one of the proactive founders of the Colony.

Leaders Laura, Carolyn and Melanie embrace the challenge to provide new opportunities for their children

20 SCOUTING

‘I got involved because I wanted to help my son with his confidence, communication and general life skills. It’s a huge benefit for all the young people here.’

Being new to Scouting certainly hasn’t put Angela and her fellow volunteers off. With their tenacity and lots of RDS support, the Colony is now thriving. There are four leaders, a growing band of Occasional

believe I just did that’ experiences.

Laura is a primary school teacher whose sons Ben, 7, and Lucas, 5, are keen members. ‘They have so much fun here,’ she comments. ‘It gives them a sense of belonging and a sense of achievement when they are awarded badges.’

Marc, an Occasional Helper whose son is a Beaver, says: ‘A lot of the young people didn’t know each

‘When new children join, we invite their parents along to get a sense of how everyone chips in’ LAURA

Helpers and 21 Beaver Scouts.

‘I’ve never worked with such an enthusiastic set of brand-new adult volunteers,’ adds John McAtominey, of the RDS. What fuels them is a desire to give their children unforgettable, ‘I can’t

other before coming to Beavers.

They’re all making friends and learning new things. It gives them more confidence.’

Building connections

But it’s not just the young people who are benefiting – so too are the leaders. Melanie, who also helped to set up the Colony, explains: ‘It’s hard to meet new people when you work full-time. It’s been great to make friends with the other parents.

‘Change your AGM to an open evening – lay on a spread and encourage parents to get involved. We rely quite a lot on families.

It’s not unusual to find a whole family spread across the sections within a Group or District.

Family involvement will give that Group a good number of years in service and work well together.’

Terry Longhurst, Scout Leader

April/May 2014

REAL TROOPERS

‘They’re all making friends and learning new things.

It gives them confidence’ MARC

The forum works by giving young people a chance to have their voices heard

Point Layar here to find out how Jarrow parents became leaders – in their own words.

scouts.org.uk/magazine

SCOUTING 21

The Colony has boosted the community as neighbouring families get to know each other

My son has additional needs and he goes to a school outside the area.

I wanted him to meet local children and feel part of the community.

Now when we go to the local supermarket he sees children he knows, and we’ve never had that experience before.’

As well as meeting new people, there is a focus on activities that help the Beavers get to know their neighbourhood better. They’ve visited the local fire brigade and will soon be working with the local council on a recycling project.

‘It makes us all feel part of the community. And the children realise that the community is bigger than their group of friends and school,’ adds Melanie.

22 SCOUTING

Opportunities to learn

Every minute at 5th Jarrow is utilised and every volunteer has a clear role.

Tonight the Beavers listen intently to the latest escapades of their toy mascot Justin Beaver, they sing, find out about magnets, stare wideeyed at a science experiment with water, food colouring and celery; and even more wide-eyed as they learn how to prepare hot chocolate with marshmallows. ‘The leaders make educational things fun,’ says Kerry, whose daughter Eva attends the Colony. ‘Eva always comes home excited about what she’s learned.’

Angela explains: ‘Many activities and visits we do relate to the National Curriculum. We plan sessions that we enjoy delivering, so it’s win-win.’

‘How we did it’ 5th Jarrow’s volunteers share their tips s Have leaders with a variety of different strengths and interests so you can take it in turns to lead the sessions. s Don’t be afraid to ask other parents for help – invite them along to a session when their children join. s Investigate sources of funding.

We were awarded £500 by the local Freemasons and this has made a huge difference. s Whatever you do, make sure you have lots of fun.

April/May 2014

The Beavers are engaged and enthusiastic about their new experiences

‘It makes us all feel part of the community’ MELANIE

There’s much more than a wellused spreadsheet behind this meticulous planning – there’s a natural rapport between the volunteers and sound communication.

‘We meet up to plan the sessions a term in advance,’ adds Angela. ‘But we supplement this with a closed Facebook group to help us tweak the sessions and where we catch up with each other when we have the opportunity.’

The leaders also encourage other parents to get involved and help out at the Colony. Laura explains: ‘When new children join, we invite their parents to come along so they get a sense of how everyone chips in.’

Angela has a key tip for anyone running a Colony: ‘Don’t be afraid to ask for help – if there are any gaps in skills among the leaders, see if you can get another parent to volunteer.’ scouts.org.uk/magazine

New experiences

Stephen is one parent who signed up as an Occasional Helper: ‘It’s warm and friendly here. Everyone can join in – it could be as simple as pouring the juice out and getting the young people into groups.’ Tonight he’s responsible for serving up chocolate cake, brought to celebrate the 40th birthday of Chris, one of the leaders.

The past 75 minutes have been a whirlwind – but one that’s ultimately energising, says Melanie as she looks around at the emptying room. ‘You get out so much more than you put in. You get to know your children more and see their enthusiasm about learning new things. The more experiences we can give them, the better!’

Judging by what has been achieved so far, there are sure to be many more exciting experiences for 5th Jarrow Beavers.

More information

The Regional Development Service (RDS) is a font of knowledge in opening new sections. Their expert approach includes school assemblies, taster evenings for parents and support for new sections. Your District or County Commissioner can put you in touch with the RDS. If you’re not in England, contact your national HQ office or development personnel.

Find out more about growing Scouting at tinyurl.com/lh9jo4e.

SCOUTING 25

OUR VISION

The UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s love of Scouting has been growing in recent years, but Vision Toward 2018 aims to attract even more young people

S

couting will be enjoyed by more young people and more adult volunteers.

That is our Vision Towards 2018 growth statement. But UK Scouting has grown in each of the past eight years, so why is it one of our key aspirations for the future?

Growth is important: it tells everyone that we are a success and it makes us feel good about ourselves and the work that we do; it makes us credible locally and that leads to us becoming more valued, respected and motivated; it gives us credibility nationally and allows us to engage with governments and other bodies who can offer us practical and financial support; it makes us a force to be reckoned with in society in 2014. Nothing breeds success better than success and everyone wants to be part of a great success story. The difficult bit is understanding what makes us grow so that we can apply the formulae of success in different places and circumstances.

What makes us grow?

At the heart of every Scouting growth story sits a high-quality youth programme delivered by interested, motivated, supported and enthusiastic scouts.org.uk/magazine

adults. An exciting, well-planned programme that is vibrant, attractive, relevant, adventurous, varied and fun is the key to continued growth. Young people will vote with their feet and join if we offer what they want and if they hear about what is on offer, whether by word of mouth or as a consequence of good Scouting news stories offered to local media by your Media Development Manager.

And the keys to successful growth in youth numbers will also apply to adults. They might add personal development, training and learning leadership skills as reasons that they want to join, but their greatest motivation is helping young people grow and develop within the context of a fun programme. HQ staff and volunteers have a key role to play in this too. A carefully considered refresh of our programme for all sections is due to be rolled out at the start of 2015. This will ensure that what we offer our members remains relevant and attractive.

There are many other issues that influence growth. One is that young people can only join where there is room. The average Colony in the UK has 16 members, Pack: 19 members,

Troop: 17 members and Explorer Unit: 19 members. Does your section have space for a few more? From the 2013 census we also know that 8% of 7,000+ Scout Groups have no Colony, 3% have no Pack and 10% have no Troop.

Adding in these missing sections would have a significant impact on our capacity and influence growth.

Adding value to lives

One of the off-putting things when growth is discussed is talk of targets. Failure to meet targets is demotivating. Failure to grow in one year when growth has been achieved in the previous six is not failure.

It is taking a breather and focusing on other things that also matter.

We all believe that what Scouting offers the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s young people adds value to their lives and to ours.

It seems natural to want to offer that opportunity to more young people and adults. That is why growth is a key objective in Vision Towards 2018.

More info

For info on opening a new group or section, go to tinyurl.com/lh9jo4e.

SCOUTING 27

DO 1 THING

s for lp w it h idea B&Q ca n he tore -s in g in is fu nd ra

MAKE SOME NOISE

about Scout Community Week

How to promote and publicise your project

S

cout Community Week is approaching fast – and if your project plans are firmly in place, now’s the time to start raising awareness about what you’re getting up to.

With thousands of Groups taking part across the UK from 2 to 8 June, the breadth of projects happening is hugely diverse. But whether you’re collecting for a local food bank, transforming an unloved green space into an urban oasis or teaching digital skills, every project can benefit from being in the limelight. The focus of Scout Community Week is making a difference where you live – so the more awareness you gain, the more local people will see for themselves just how phenomenal Scouting is.

There isn’t one sure-fire way to get your project noticed – we recommend you take a multi-layered approach to spreading the word… scouts.org.uk/magazine

Be social media savvy

Using social media is an effective and speedy way to get attention – don’t forget to use the hashtag #SCW2014 so that everyone can see what you’re up to, and the team here at UKHQ can share your news.

Take plenty of brilliant, expressive photos and, if possible, videos, and update your website and social media accounts frequently. For tips on great photography and video-making, visit the ‘Communicating with members’ section of Member Resources.

Increase your visibility

Let more people know about your project by simply being seen. Scout Community Week templates are available on the Brand Centre for you to customise publicity essentials like posters and leaflets: visit scouts. org.uk/brand. Ask at your local B&Q store about in-store fundraising – spots are available throughout May;

In partnership with:

HELP FROM OUR PARTNER B&Q can help you get your project up and running: See if you can get hold of materials like timber offcuts or damaged tins of paint for your project through B&Q’s waste donation scheme.

Book Kids Can Do It Classes to prime your Scouts’ practical skills, with over 15 workshops to choose from. Find out more at diy.com/kidsclasses.

Fundraise in-store throughout May – locate your nearest store at diy.com and get in touch with the manager to book a date.

SCOUTING 29

Check out the renovation of East Sussex chalk landmark, the Long Man of Wilmington.

HOW WE DID IT

The Scouts of Hailsham and Heathfield District gave the Long Man of Wilmington a makeover for SCW 2013.

Keep your eyes peeled for this year’s SCW film launching in April, or point Layar here to see what Samuel, Hattie, Isobel, Aaron and Huxley are getting up to…

create a buzz by wearing your SCW Scout T-shirts with pride and putting together a display board about your planned project. There is strength in numbers – so can you work with other Scout Groups in your area?

Get support

There are lots of sophisticated ways you can get attention, but don’t forget about the simple stuff. Ask friends, family, work colleagues and parents of your young people to put up posters, spread the word verbally and champion your project on the web and social media. Encourage them to speak to contacts they have, for instance at local businesses, schools and other community groups, who might be able to give your project an extra boost.

Build links

Involving your councillor, MP or local personalities can increase publicity and the possibility that your project will get press coverage. Work with your Media Development Manager (MDM) to raise the project’s profile – if you don’t know who yours is, contact the Scout Information Centre on 0845 300 1818 or info.centre@scouts.org.uk.

30 SCOUTING

‘Last year we ran a community event to promote local community groups and organisations. We invited clubs and groups to have their own stall at a morning event at our HQ. They created a display to show and promote what they do and we provided refreshments. We advertised the event by contacting the local groups, with articles in the local press, leaflet drops and posters. We also invited our local MP who came on the day.’

Wendy MacDonald, Group Scout Leader

Andy Wyllie, Group Scout Leader ‘We ended up having TV, radio and local press coverage for this project.

My advice is if you have a big idea, run with it. If it’s bigger than your Group, get your District involved – our DC promoted it across the District.

We also used social media, got in contact with our local newspapers, ran a ‘carry to car’ service at the local B&Q to spread the word and asked the brilliant HQ media team for help.

Thanks to press coverage, lots of people turned up and made it a fun community event.’

Phoenix Explorer Scouts in Tyne and Wear revamped their local cricket pitch during SCW 2013.

David Stokes, District Explorer Scout Commissioner

Register now

In order to receive your Scout Community Week badges you must register at scouts.org.uk/ communityweek. Here you’ll also find case studies, resources and easy projects for all sections – that count towards badges.

If you have any questions or want to update us on your project email community. week@scouts.org.uk.

‘We asked councillors for their project ideas and considered several before opting to refurbish an overgrown cricket strip. The project made us visible in the community, and gave the Explorers a sense of achievement and involvement. Our councillors were so impressed that we were awarded £1,000 from the Gateshead Local Community Fund, which went towards equipment. Contacting them helped us engage with local residents’ groups, find the right project and eventually receive the bonus of financial support.’

April/May 2014

//Swap logo// - not s

add W blob -

INTERNATIONAL ADVENTURE

ting family u o c S e id w ld enefit from s in the wor n io t rd way to b c a e w n or tf n h o ig hether as is a stra Make c Groups – w roups overse h overseas

N

it ks with G ts’ eyes Engaging w urturing lin en your Scou f Scouting. op o n h ca ac – re e n ry ina ndships, ng onli the ex traord lifelong frie ce or chatti er fa st to fo ce ou fa y g p eetin d hel that ’s by m cultures an to different p u s on iz or and h s show… ng volunteer si ri rp te en as these

I SR A E L

adjust ou r d we had to n a ingly. up, m me accord n Scout Gro ra to g p ro m p a B s, p DC ia nt to see David Philli pton and A ‘It was bri ll ader at Bam Le t u o Sc b Cu a ll m ix ing the Scouts ton District er iv T ed it at is s) v b g each (Cu up was a nd enjoy in 2012, our Gro er e m th m om su pa ny.

‘In aders fr other’s com and their le ts ou e Sc th 20 f ge li ke th is by part o A n excha n iin, which is t iq rs P fi f I . o el ge Bampton Sc ra la Is u r you ng vil ity in ou broadens o meet fellow t Group us commun io K g U li a re . at k Scouts from ze , o er o tl Dru ad u le o s ’s p’ Pi le u qi p in in Israel peo l a A li, the Gro l tu a at u m th m Ja h ed g et m e lea rn 7, throu p They’v back in 200 of his Grou Scout camp ea id e l world is a a th re the discussed d n a s, d n place a nd ie fr o. much bigger e way we d isit. v r to u o g in at y th in ks th m d ed o co ay b y st er it el ev ra en t no s wh from Is , ma n being ‘The Scouts joyed ga mes we’re a ll hu t en u e B W s. e ay in th n to it.

HQ for 10 d w ith Scouts comes dow tters to the ey , meetings h g T in r. o m o im m x have sent le E sw s b y ct u rb C e ea h n ‘T a re in conta d h ikes in me of them ic d isplay so Distr ic t a n et r d g n ei a er th p t en u u l, Gro ta lk abo onder fu . They stil l a nd ma ny k l gave us a w o – ri o s p b A ce ce n In a Fa . d on it Israel l Druze keen to v is ou r Scouts y of their loca re el a d at re n n o a u m it rt t v is d ou in. Unfo they Piqiin to fi n of us joined ces so when il l travel to n w a I d ssibilit y of y o n p a e e w ’r th su re they lace a nd d id n’t k no p ke e a th m t u to o e ab pe we ca n I’ ll hav isiting. I ho ors wou ld v meet aga in it is ts v u o r u Sc o r u o assu med there.’ ut th ings, prepa red! I a n ise a tr ip tdoorsy Sco rg u o o o d to t ping on ly wa n en on shop ere ver y ke but they w

32 SCOUTING

April/May 2014

INTERNATIONAL ADVENTURE

The young people from 3rd Ware Scout Group visit the village of Medina Sering Mass in Gambia

THE GAMBIA Sarah Laverick, Cub Scout Leader, 3rd Ware Scout Group ‘We set up our link in 2007 when a local charity called HELPING, which works with schools and community organisations, was looking for Groups to forge links in The Gambia. They put us in touch with a Scout Group in the village of Medina Sering Mass, one of the poorest parts of The Gambia.

‘We keep our Scouts excited about the project by regularly writing to the Gambian Scouts and running special themed activities. We ran a competition for Scouts in our Group and in The Gambia to design a badge. Now both Groups wear the badge, which combines the two winning designs.

When we celebrated our centenary in 2011 we had a party and sent out some money for them to have a party too.

‘In spring 2012, a group of our leaders and young people went out to the village. They had a brilliant and enriching time, learning about local life and culture; sharing Scouting skills, including first aid and woggle-making; and advising the Gambian leaders on scouts.org.uk/magazine

setting up a Beaver Colony.

‘Over the years, fundraising has been a big focus for us. We raised money for mosquito nets when there was a malaria outbreak in 2009. We also raised money to buy solar panels for the school where the Group meets.’

‘It’s great for our young people to have the opportunity to help those who are less fortunate. It’s hard for them to comprehend just how different life in The Gambia is – but even the simple act of exchanging letters is a way of giving them an insight.’

More info

The international team run a scheme connecting UK and overseas Groups.

For details, search for ‘international links scheme’ on Member Resources or email international.links@scouts.org.uk.

SCOUTING 33

INTERNATIONAL REAL ADVENTURE TROOPERS

CANADA, AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND Geoff Crabb, Scout Leader at 2nd Templecombe ‘Our links with 31st Calgary go back over 30 years, when Scout HQ in Canada put us in touch. We’ve had all sorts of adventures with them – from taking massive freighter canoes down the Bow River to building tee-pees in an Aboriginal reservation. Once we travelled with them through the UK and up to the Orkney Islands.

Some of the Scouts who took part in exchanges years ago are still in touch with the friends they made then.

‘About eight years ago, our friends in Canada met a Group from near Sydney, Australia at a jamboree.

Through them we linked up with a Group from near Auckland in New

Zealand. Now all four Groups keep in touch and organise camps together.

This year, we’re hosting the Groups from Canada and Australia in the UK. Unfortunately, the Group in New Zealand have their own jamboree so can’t make it. This arrangement means that every Scout in our Group gets the opportunity to experience a camp in Canada, Australia or New Zealand. My Scouts often tell me they’ve been in touch on Skype with the Scouts overseas.

‘Being in contact with these Groups really expands our Scouts’ horizons.

The trips give them responsibility and maturity. You can look at stuff in the classroom, but there’s nothing like first-hand experience. I’d like to bring

another country into our partnership, hopefully Japan. The best thing about it is friendship; with modern technology there are so many ways to keep in touch.’

‘In 2012 we discovered a Group with exactly the same name as us: 12th Cambridge, in Canada.

We contacted them and it quickly grew into an exchange programme with some of our Scouts joining them for their camp in Canada and some Canadian Scouts coming to us for camp. We have set each other a challenge for Founders Day: they have to have a proper English tea party and we have to build snow shoes.’

Graham Steed

JOTA/JOTI Each year, Scouts across the globe take part in JOTA (Jamboree on the Air) and JOTI (Jamboree on the Internet). These events, which take place on 18–19 October 2014, are a fantastic chance for sections to meet online or through amateur radio. For info, email jota@scouts.org.uk and joti@scouts.org.uk.

scouts.org.uk/magazine

SCOUTING 35

REAL OUT THERE RENOVATIONS

l about renovating, al ll te s p u ro G t ou Sc ing their HQs p m va re d an g in or rest

Before 14th Walthamstow’s HQ was in a sorry state before its makeover, looking more like a garage than a Scout home.

1

After Thanks to council funding and a local architect, the front of Walthamstow’s HQ was turned from eyesore to eye-catching.

Design for life

14th Walthamstow in London enlisted the help of an architect to turn their uninspiring HQ into a work of art ‘Our council had money to invest in shop fronts so we got in contact,’ says Howard Hillier-Daines, District Commissioner for Waltham Forest. ‘The grant (from Greater London Authority) came with its own architect, and because we had this professional advice, the project was pretty straightforward.’

‘The Scouts were directly involved in the design through workshops,’ says

36 SCOUTING

architect Tomas Klassnik. ‘It introduced them to the tools and processes involved in the design and construction.’

‘The project has galvanised the Group,’ says Howard. ‘We’ve had more enquiries through the door of the HQ since the makeover as it’s a positive image of Scouting. As it was before, with its dingy front and gates, it might have put people off. Now it lifts everyone’s spirits.’

Top tip

‘There are initiatives around and pots of money available,’ says Howard. ‘It doesn’t need to be much; the things our architect could achieve with some paint and MDF on a budget was incredible. With a little thought and some creative ideas, it’s easy to achieve something really inspiring and welcoming at a low cost.’

April/May 2014

REAL RENOVATIONS

Brand n

ew!

Before Following an arson attack on its HQ, 1st

Saxmundham Scouts Group had to travel eight miles to another Group’s HQ. Numbers dropped and the Group was facing an uncertain future.

2

After By using some creative fundraising ideas and tapping into the community spirit, a new HQ was built on the site of the old one.

Second chance

In Suffolk, community spirit raised 1st Saxmundham’s former HQ from the ashes ‘While our old HQ was insured, it didn’t cover the cost of a new HQ, so the Executive Committee found donations and help from various sources,’ explains Haydn Morris, Section Assistant and Chairman of the Executive Committee.

‘We did lots of fundraising to raise the extra cash and got help from businesses, including Tesco, B&Q and Waitrose. Tesco staff helped paint the scouts.org.uk/magazine

HQ for us, while B&Q donated the paint.

A local benefactor also donated some high-tech flooring.

‘Since opening the new HQ, we have started a Beaver Colony and two Cub Packs. We now have 20 Beavers, 35 Cubs and 12 Scouts and more are on the way,’ says Haydn. ‘There’s not a lot in Saxmundham for the young people to do, so the Scout HQ is vital.’

Top tip

‘If you’re going to build a new HQ, have an opening ceremony and advertise the occasion,’ recommends Haydn. ‘Invite all the local community along to see the premises. We rent out our HQ to the community, so we now have an asset to make money; you need to let everyone know it’s there.’

SCOUTING 37

REAL RENOVATIONS

New door Before Operating out of two small wooden huts, 1st Holmes Chapel was bursting at the seams on Scout night and desperately needed more space to accommodate its ever-growing numbers. Following a community appeal for more space, Holmes Chapel Scouts acquired the town’s rundown youth centre, and made a few modifications.

3

Fixer-upper

After Holmes Chapel Scouts have made the space their own and can host different sec tions at the same time.

1st Holmes Chapel in Cheshire applied for a grant to spruce up their homestead ‘We couldn’t move into the centre right away as it needed new toilets, staircase and floor coverings,’ remembers Wendy Macdonald, GSL and local Training Manager. ‘A Scout representative attended a local council grant workshop and found out about WREN grants (wren.org.uk). Through this scheme we received £75,000, which was amazing.

‘The whole project cost around scouts.org.uk/magazine

£93,000 so we raised the remainder ourselves. We do a lot of fundraising anyway so we had some money put aside from that and took it up another level with regular bag packs, markets and leaflet drops.

‘We’ve now got a huge area – meaning we can host all the sections at the same time. It makes life easier for us and for parents who have children in different sections.’

Top tip

‘Find out if local volunteer projects can help you. Barclays has a scheme where its employees do a certain amount of volunteering over the year, and there’s a Barclays computer centre near us. We managed to get two different painting teams for a whole day; they provided the materials and the people.’

SCOUTING 3939

4

Heart of the community

Near Blackpool, 1st Staining enlisted a local business to make much-needed HQ improvements ‘Jones Homes, a local builder, got permission to construct houses in the village, so there was a community fund [a collection of small grants set aside for local development] that needed to be spent,’ recalls Rob Williams, GSL at 1st Staining.

‘Our Exec Committee got in touch with them and they agreed to work on our HQ. They re-rendered two walls, which would have cost the Scout

Group thousands of pounds. Some of the Scout leaders and I did a lot of the manual work too; I took a week’s holiday and helped knock down the damaged walls.

‘At one time the Scout Hut was the worst-looking building in the village and thankfully it’s not any more.

There’s an annual Staining in Bloom competition and a local garden centre donates flowers to us.’

Top tip

‘Never give up. Look at all avenues for help. Speak to your local councillors who are normally a wealth of information. The grants are there – if anyone is building near you, there will be community funds available.’

More makeover wisdom from around the UK Suffolk Scouts and Brownies in Bures, Suffolk, came up with some innovative fundraising ideas for their new HQ. In addition to jumble sales and raffles, they created a buy-a-brick scheme, where members of the community paid £5 for a brick in the new building.

Norwich To ensure theirs is a unique HQ, 1st Norwich Sea Scouts approached local architects, Lewis and Tyrrell, who helped the Group design and build a swanky new HQ.

Enjoy a timelapse video of Norwich Sea Scouts’ new HQ.

Fresh render! new HQ is now a After Safe, secure and spacious, 1st Staining’s . unity comm the of thriving space at the heart

Insure peace of mind

When building or repairing your new HQ it is worth considering how this might affect your current insurance cover. You need to inform your insurer or insurance broker before, rather than after, the makeover and they will be able to advise you of any cover implications. You should also insure the building work if it is a major makeover, as opposed to a mere lick of paint. Finally, check the value of the building following any improvements to ensure it’s all covered. Unity (Scout Insurance Services) offers a free buildings estimation service under the Scout Property and Equipment policy. For more information, call Unity on 0845 0945 703.

40 SCOUTING

Cleethorpes 3rd Cleethorpes Scout Group applied for cash from the Big Lottery Fund to replace their HQ roof and received a share of £250,000 following a vote by Grimsby Telegraph readers.

Oxford With a serious lack of available space in the area, Witney Buttercross Scout Group Oxford, thought outside the box when seeking additional room; they fundraised for six years to buy a local stables and turn them into a creative hub.

If you’ve been involved in a Scout HQ makeover and you’d like to share your experiences with us, leave a comment at scouts.org.uk/magazine.

April/May 2014

OUT THERE

Ingenious Scouts and leaders share their self-made campsite gadgets…

Adjustable pot hanger

Bucking bronco

Cole Valley Explorer Scouts fashioned together poles, rope and tyres and made a fully functioning bucking bronco. One Scout rides the bronco while another pulls gently on the ropes to make the contraption move up and down.

Cooking equipment can be a pain when transporting from Scout HQ to Scout camp, so it’s always a good idea to improvise once you’re out in the field. Simon Moorhouse, an Explorer Scout Leader from East Lancs, came up with an adjustable holder that suspends a pot over the campfire at different heights. All you need is two strong sticks and tools to cut notches.

Water-jug lamp

Deluxe chair

If you’ve forgotten your gas lamp, all you need is a torch, a jug and some water. Fill up the jug with water, attach a torch to this with some tape and flick the switch. Thanks to outdoor specialists Four Elements Adventure for this tip.

Why bother forking out lots of cash for a camping chair when you can make your own? In a feat of design genius, Bent and Bongs Explorer Scout Unit created a beautiful campsite chair made out of two simple planks of wood. Comfortable and easy to transport, this is one for the Scout leader who likes to relax in style.

Pot stand

1st Bedworth turned some spare shelf brackets into a must-have camping accessory. By attaching three metal brackets together to form a miniature table, the Scouts came up with the perfect pot stand – ideal for scorching hot pans of delicious camp stew.

42 SCOUTING

April/May 2014

OUT THERE

Campsite entrance

When setting up camp, nothing says style and sophistication like a grand entrance. With the use of a few poles, rope, a Group flag and some pioneering skills, Sissinghurst Cub Pack from Weald District, Kent set up an impressive monument in the camp’s glamorous foyer.

Makeshift bed

Fed up with sleeping on the hard ground and waking up to find creepy crawlies in your sleeping bag? One member from 13th Ipswich Sea Scouts set out to combat uncomfortable sleeping arrangements at camp and put together a bunk using sticks and rope. It may not be the cosiest bed ever created, but we’d take this over the cold, muddy ground any day.

Doubling up as a stove and a wood burner, this improvised piece of camp kit from 2nd Chadwell Heath Scouts will save forking out for new equipment if you happen to have an old washing machine lying about. When turned on its side, a washing machine tub can function as a cooking appliance (just put a griddle on top) or used to warm the Scouts up on chilly evenings.

Floating beast

Aberdeen Network Scouts put their creative skills to good use during a visit to Knockburn Loch in Kincardineshire, and came up with ‘floating beast’. The Scouts built a raft using pioneering poles and barrels and then pitched the tent on top; the raft was then sent out on the loch. Handy for when your campsite is waterlogged!

Sink unit

Assistant Cub Scout Leader Eoin Neil, from Castle Douglas, Scotland, literally takes the kitchen sink with him to camp. Giving his Cubs no excuse to skip the washing up, Eoin crafted an impressive outside sink, complete with a sturdy wooden foundation and a solid sink surface. scouts.org.uk/magazine

Point Layar here to see photos of these camp gadgets – and more.

Share your story

If you’ve invented your own amazing campsite gadgets, head to scouts.org.uk/magazine and leave a comment to let us know.

SCOUTING 43

Illustration: Russell Cobb

Washing-machine burner

YOUNG CARERS

Reaching out to the hidden army When Scouting joins forces with social services, young carers are encouraged to enjoy lost childhood experiences Pictures: Jon Challicom

WORDS LEE GRIFFITHS

44 SCOUTING

April/May 2014

YOUNG CARERS

Around 700,000 young people care for others in the UK â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Scouting can support them

scouts.org.uk/magazine

SCOUTING 45

YOUNG CARERS

The Youth Forum marquee travels to events and gathers feedback from young people

I

‘

f it wasn’t for you and the other leaders helping me learn to be who I am, I wouldn’t be where I am today.’

It’s the kind of feedback that every volunteer cherishes. It makes all the hard work worthwhile and encapsulates the transformative impact of Scouting. What makes this message extra-special is that these are the words of Adam.

Now a confident student, he was once a timid Beaver, who came to Scouting as a weekly respite from his responsibilities as a young carer.

Building confidence

‘In 2002, Adam’s social worker had been looking for somewhere he could spend time with other young people,’ explains Mathew Sims, Cub Scout Leader and Explorer Scout Leader at 25th St Helens (Billinge). ‘He spent his spare time helping his parents care for his older

46 SCOUTING

The forum works by giving young people a chance to have their voices heard

Gentle encouragement and support helps young carers come out of their shells

‘The biggest challenge is finding enough adults to do all the things that we would like to do’ MATHEW SIMS

brother who had severe learning difficulties. He didn’t go to playgroup and had few opportunities to mix socially with other children – so school was the first time he interacted with young people his age, which was only 12 months before he came to us.’

Adam recalls: ‘When I started school I knew I was different – that I didn’t fit in. For as long as I could remember I helped mum with jobs, going to the shops to buy bread and milk and looking after my brother.

It was all normal for me.’

At first, when Adam joined, he was reticent and simply observed.

‘He was more scared than anything

else,’ remembers Mathew.

‘He was accompanied by his dad and wouldn’t actually come into the main room. It took a few weeks before he edged towards it, peered around the door and eventually came in.’

With measured, careful support from Mathew and the other leaders, Adam was coaxed from his shell – most memorably, by dance night.

‘Adam spent most of the evening watching the other Beavers, but for some reason the idea of dancing was the catalyst he needed and he just jumped up and joined in,’ explains Mathew. ‘From that day onwards we couldn’t hold him back!’

April/May 2014

YOUNG CARERS

Scout Groups work with social services teams to allow young carers a slice of childhood

‘Being made a Sixer in Cubs was literally the coolest thing in the world,’ adds Adam. ‘I wanted to run around and tell everyone. The idea that the leaders would trust me to be a Sixer was just unbelievable.’

Research suggests that there may be a ‘hidden army’ of around 700,000 young people in the UK who, like Adam, care for family members or friends – and that it can have an enduring impact on their lives.

The Children’s Society calculates that one in 12 young carers spend more than 15 hours a week supporting loved ones, which leaves them feeling isolated and vulnerable.

Over two thirds are bullied at school, according to additional research the charity carried out with The Princess Royal Trust for Carers, and many underachieve academically or drop out of school altogether. On a very simple level, they lose the chance to form friendships and experience the carefree joys of childhood. scouts.org.uk/magazine

Inspired by Adam’s journey, Mathew, who works in education, spotted an opportunity to extend Scouting to even more young carers.

‘We got to know the local social services team and developed a relationship with them, and a few more children were sent our way with similar stories to Adam.

It became a regular thing and it grew from there.’

Rewarding young carers

What started off as a kernel of an idea is now a fully functioning, hugely rewarding project that involves seven Groups, including Mathew’s, from the Merseyside and Greater Manchester areas. ‘It works because it’s so simple,’ says Mathew.

‘The social services teams are always looking for ways to give childhood experiences to young carers and Scouts is a perfect fit. They suggest Scouts to a young carer and arrange cover at home to allow them to attend.’

However, the impact of joining Scouts on these young people is anything but simple, continues Mathew. ‘They grow in confidence because they achieve something for themselves. Seeing them develop from when they first turn up to what they’re like after a few months is amazing.’

The young people who’ve benefited so far include Callum* who, as well as shouldering domestic jobs at home, had to care for a younger brother with severe epilepsy, and Michaela*, a Scout who had to care for her elderly grandmother and a younger brother with epilepsy while her single-parent mum worked nights, six days a week.

‘She had only one night off – and that was when her mum didn’t have to work,’ says Mathew.

Being a young carer isn’t just hard on the young people; it’s painful for parents to see their children take on responsibilities that would faze most adults.

SCOUTING 47

YOUNG CARERS

Joining Scouts means a young carer can leave their responsibilities behind them, for a while at least

Thomas* was initially reluctant to get involved with Merseyside Scouts because he didn’t want to leave his mum alone. ‘Thomas talked about wanting to do more activities with friends but tried not to talk about it too much because he didn’t want to upset me,’ says his mum June*.

‘When the chance came up to join Cubs, he was over the moon, but still concerned for me. All he wanted to ask was who would look after me while he was away until our social worker explained that they would be able to provide a carer.’

Scout volunteers go above and beyond to offer support, continues June: ‘The leaders are so

‘The idea that the leaders trusted me to be a Sixer was unbelievable’ ADAM, FORMER SCOUT AND YOUNG CARER

supportive and understanding. Last month I had to go into hospital for a night and Thomas’s Cub Leader helped him make me a get well card.

The leaders also talked to the social worker to arrange for him to stay at a friend’s house for the night. This is a friend he wouldn’t have made if it wasn’t for Cubs. Thomas is smiling again; it stops me feeling so guilty that my illness is hurting him too.’

Just the beginning

Mathew hopes that what he and his fellow volunteers have achieved will inspire Groups across the UK. ‘The biggest challenge is finding enough adults to do all the things we’d like to do,’ says Mathew. ‘If we had more volunteers, more sections and more Groups, then we could help so many more young people and achieve so much more.’

48 SCOUTING

Now studying to be a primary school teacher and also volunteering at his local Scout Group, Adam is a shining example of the difference Scouting can make. ‘If it hadn’t been for the help I had from Scouts I don’t know what would have happened.

I certainly don’t think I’d be training as a teacher. You have to have a childhood. Scouting made me believe in myself and that I could go out there and achieve whatever I wanted.’ *Names have been changed to protect identities

More info

For more information on how you can help young carers, log in to the members’ area of scouts.org.uk and search for the term ‘young carers’. If you’ve been involved in a young carers’ project, let us know by commenting at magazine.scouts.org.uk.

April/May 2014

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Advice and know-how to inspire and inform VOLUNTEER IN PROFILE

‘There are so many heroes in Scouting’

North Yorkshire Cub Scout Leader Alex Wise received a Meritorious Conduct Award after rescuing a threeyear old girl from a tram accident in Blackpool…

M

y partner and I were walking near Blackpool Promenade when we heard a bang and saw a tram come to an emergency stop. I jumped the fence, checked the line was clear and headed straight for it. A cyclist had been crossing the line, pulling his threeyear-old niece along in a two-wheeled carriage. They didn’t hear the tram and it hit them. The cyclist was thrown from his bike and the girl was dragged along under the tram.

I checked under the tram. It was dark so I used my iPhone torch and rolled underneath. The girl was unconscious, so from my Scouts first-aid training, I remembered that I should shout out to her first.

Then I tapped her on the shoulder and she woke up. She started to scream and was coughing blood.

I finally managed to untangle the bike carriage and, with the help of a passerby, lifted her out.

I’ve been a part of Scouting since I was eight; my Scouting experience played a massive part in what I did. scouts.org.uk/magazine

You focus on the moment and immediately think: what can I use around me to help? I assessed the situation and logically thought about what I could and couldn’t do.

I’ve told my Scouts about Blackpool and of course, they’re proud. I’ve got diabetes and I try not to let that stop me doing anything. Life is short, after all – and anything’s possible.

I know the girl and her uncle both recovered but haven’t managed to track them down to speak to them.

I hope she’s enjoying her life and doesn’t really remember the accident.

I received my award for Meritorious Conduct at our AGM. I wear it on special occasions and show it off with pride, but Scouts and volunteers do amazing things all the time and there are so many heroes among us.

I might have an award but every Scout wears their membership number on their heart.

More info

For more inspirational awardwinners, check out the Roll of Honour supplement with this issue.

Alex remembered his Scout first-aid training when a little girl was dragged under a tram

SCOUTING 51

theknowledge

Does our Scout Group need to buy liability insurance?

James Cooper, Cub Scout Leader

Whatever your Scouting query, our experts have an answer for you

Ralph Doe, Unity Liability and Insurance Adviser, says: In most cases the answer is no, as you’d be covered under The Scout Association’s Public Liability Policy.

However, if you employ staff, provide services or training outside Scouting, or allow non-Scouts to use climbing facilities, you may need additional cover. For more information and advice on your Group’s insurance needs, check out scoutinsurance.co.uk, email scouts@ unityins.co.uk or call 0845 0945 703.

What is the simplest camp gadget I can make with my Scouts?

How do I manage the renewal of different versions of the Promise at our St George’s Day event?

Susan Smith, Asst. Scout Leader

52 SCOUTING

Pat Gilks, Scout Information Centre Adviser, says: We’ve had multiple versions of the Promise for many years and members are invited to use the version most appropriate for them.

The different versions of the Promise, including the new additional alternative Promise, can all be said together at renewal events. You’ll need to factor in the time taken to say the alternative Promise, and provide the wording so that people can choose which to make.

Austin Lill, Cub Scout Leader and bushcraft enthusiast, says: Show your Scouts how nature can have many uses. Harvest some short lengths of hazel or alder wood, strip one end of bark, chew it to break the fibres and you’ll have a more than passable toothbrush. It’s a great solution for Scouts who forgot to bring theirs to camp… For more ideas, have a look in Get Active! or search back issues for bushcraft activities at scouts. org.uk/magazine.

April/May 2014

Picture: Thinkstock

Preeti Rogers, Section Assistant

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How can I reduce the most common Scouting accidents?

Daniel Chan, Group Scout Leader

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e u s s i g Thebi More parents are asking if they can transfer subs or camp money online.

How can this be done in a secure way?

Jenny Jones, Cub Leader

trim your hair…

Not the way to rds to young ha Explain za w activities ne g people durin

Stuart Carter, Safety in Scouting Co-ordinator says: The most common accidents within Scouting relate to slips, trips and falls. Consider the following when camping: an unfamiliar environment, uneven ground, mud, tree stumps, guy ropes and pegs, darkness. Adding excited young people and busy volunteers into the mix can increase the chance of an accident. Pitch tents neatly. Ensure equipment is put away when not in use, particularly sharp objects and around kitchens or fires.

Designate specific areas and explain to everybody the hazards and rules to reduce the risk from them. Ensure there are clear areas where games and activities can be carried out safely.

For further advice, check out scouts. org.uk/safety. scouts.org.uk/magazine

Tim Kidd, Chief Commissioner of England, says: ‘Compass is the new official membership system for all young people and adults who are members of The Scout Association. It’s a powerful tool for managing admin – and an online payment function is planned for shortly after launch, by the end of 2014. You’ll be able to ask people to both sign up and pay for a camp via Compass – with no cash or cheques involved.’

Wendy Macdonald, Group Scout Leader, says: ‘Our Group uses online banking which makes payments much easier. The leader authorises payments and the treasurer makes them. We’re considering online transfers for subs and event fees, this needs planning to reconcile the accounts and see who’s paid what. Cheques aren’t much used now so more payments are cash, which is difficult to manage. E-payment should improve things.’

Neil Robst, Assistant Cub Scout Leader, 8th South Leeds (Carlton) Scout Group, says: ‘Online transfers mean leaders don’t have to handle cash at meetings; it’s faster and has built-in tracking for both parties. Give parents the bank details and set up a specific reference code format they should use for each purpose, such as <section initial><Surname and initial><Purpose>, eg. ‘BCollinsASubs’.

Over to you…

Do you have a query about Scouting, or experience you could share as a member of our reader panel? If the answer to either question is yes, email us at scouting.magazine@scouts.org.uk with your questions and advice.

SCOUTING 53

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Smoke alarm

Taking a responsible attitude to smoking

E

veryone’s a little savvier these days about the health effects of smoking, especially since the ban in workplaces and enclosed public spaces. In the mid-1970s 45% of adults smoked; now it’s nearer 20%, and of those still lighting up, surveys show that most would prefer not to.

Scouting has embraced these changes too. As you know, POR (chapter 2, page 3) states that Scouting should be provided in a safe manner without risk to health, so far as is ‘reasonably practicable’. In line with UK law, all Scout premises, including minibuses, marquees and tents, must be smoke-free – and you should have no-smoking signs at main access points into buildings and in vehicles.

Leading by example

Despite the huge decline in smoking, 8 million adults in the UK still smoke, including some of our volunteers.

If you’re one of them we understand that you may want to smoke during your time volunteering. All the common-sense rules apply if you work directly with young people: as adults scouts.org.uk/magazine

we’re role models and young people copy our behaviour. Hence you should only light up out of sight of your Scouts – whether you’re away on camp or at your HQ, and whether you’re smoking a regular cigarette or an electronic one.

As an adult in Scouting, you will come across young people who choose to smoke. There are a number of ways in which adults can deal with young people who smoke, but the main aim should be to support the young person and inform them of smoking’s harmful effects on themselves and others.

As well as discussing health concerns and the issue of passive smoking, you could talk about the financial implications as part of your Group’s programme on money management.

We all have a responsibility to offer Scouting in a safe environment.

The wellbeing of our young people is paramount and we must ensure that no young person is subjected to tobacco smoke. As a leader it’s unacceptable to allow those under 18 to smoke in your care. You may find it helpful for you to discuss the issue with their parents or guardians.

As you know, there’s no part of your body that smoking doesn’t affect. It causes 90% of lung cancers and is a factor in other cancers, too. It damages your heart and puts you at risk of heart disease, stroke, DVT, respiratory conditions including emphysema and oral problems such as tooth loss. Smoking also speeds up the ageing process, affects fertility and compromises bone density.

Now for the good news. The human body is resilient and can bounce back remarkably quickly if you stop. After one year, your risk of heart attack is half that of a smoker. After 10 years, you’ll have halved your lung cancer risk, too.

Support for smokers

Need help to quit? Or perhaps you want to encourage someone else? There are many approaches to stopping smoking – and studies show that the more support you get, the better your chances. A good first step is to chat to your GP. Focus on the benefits (see the panel above) – becoming smoke-free is one of the single most powerful things you can for your health. Your bank balance will be healthier too; use the Cost Calculator at gosmokefree.nhs.uk to see how much you could save – and treat yourself with the proceeds!

‘On the rare occasions we have had smokers involved with the Group we’ve asked them to not do so within sight of the young people and all have accepted this without question.’ Graham Steed

More info

Find advice on life issues including smoking, bereavement and selfharm on Member Resources. For smoking support, check out nhs. uk/smokefree and quit.org.uk.

SCOUTING 55

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Reader recipe IZZY’S

BASE CAMP BREAKFAST

Cub Scout Izzy, 8, shares her grab-and-go hot breakfast sandwich, easy to make in one pan and the perfect way to get Scouts up and about on camps!

Ingredients

Makes 6 sandwiches

Picture: Thinkstock

About the chef

Izzy is a Cub from 1st Ramsey Scout Group, Cambridgeshire. She loves cooking, blogging and Scouting – check out her posts at 1stramseyscoutgroup. weebly.com, which tell of her adventures in the kitchen and in the great outdoors. scouts.org.uk/magazine

• English breakfast muffins, one per person • 6 good quality sausages • 150g grated cheese, whatever you fancy • 1 large onion, diced • 2 to 3 red, orange or yellow peppers, diced • Olive oil • 1 large garlic clove, diced • Salt and pepper • 3 free-range eggs • 50g butter

1

Pour a tablespoon of oil in a big pan or skillet and gently fry the peppers, garlic and onion for about five minutes.

2 3

Slice the sausages into half-inch pieces.

Move the veggies to one side of the pan and add the sliced sausage to the other side. Let them brown on each side, turning the pan so everything cooks evenly.

4

Once the sausages have browned, mix everything up in the pan and pat down to level the surface.

5

Beat the eggs in a bowl and pour into the pan to bind everything together.

6 7

Season with black pepper and salt.

Press everything down in the pan and sprinkle on the cheese. Let it melt.

8

Split the muffins in half and toast them over the fire. Spread with butter.

9

Once your breakfast melt is cooked through, use a spatula to lift a goodsized slice of gooey goodness into each muffin. Enjoy!

SCOUTING 57

theknowledge TAKE A HIKE

The roof of southern Britain

Two shapely summits, two majestic mountain faces and the highest point in southern Britain await you on this thrilling route through the sandstone hills of the Brecon Beacons

What are the Brecon Beacons?

The Brecon Beacons is a mountain range in South Wales formed from Old Red Sandstone rock formed over 300 million years ago. The area is thought to be named after the ancient practice of lighting signal fires on summits to warn of enemy attacks; the highest peak in the range is Pen y Fan at 886m.

58 SCOUTING

Cribyn rears above the track, making for exhilarating scenery untouched by time

April/May 2014

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Pen y Fan and Cribyn Map OS Explorer sheet OL12 Distance 6½ miles/10.5km Total ascent 560m Start and finish Pont y Caniedydd parking area (SO039245)

Picture: Graham Thompson/Trail Magazine

Pen y Fan and Cribyn are a pair of perfectly sculpted mountains that guard the head of the u-shaped Cwm Sere valley. Pen y Fan stands 91 metres taller than its neighbour, but both peaks hold their own unique appeal. Cribyn rears up like a perfect pyramid and its near-vertical north face is one of the most photographed features in the UK mountains. Pen y Fan dominates the landscape for miles around, its distinctive flat-topped summit attracting thousands of visitors. Both mountains are easily accessible from the nearby market town of Brecon, and this four-hour route is a great way for walkers of all ages to explore them from their most exciting angle.

The route From the parking area at Pont y Caniedydd (limited spaces), the walk begins by turning south-east then crossing a bridge and following a tarmac lane uphill. Pass the entrance to Bailea Farm and stay with the road until you reach a sharp left turn. Here, go straight ahead for 250m along the stony track of an old Roman road to a gate at the base of Cribyn’s wide north ridge, marked on the map as Bryn Teg (A).

Attack the grassy ridge head-on, with big views of both mountains exploding around you as you ascend. The path climbs pretty much in a straight line for around 2km until you reach a fork in the path before the final, steep climb to Cribyn’s summit.

If you feel adventurous, try the exposed footpath that cuts directly across the mountain’s north face, but if the summit’s your goal continue up to the 795m top (B). A clear path now drops scouts.org.uk/magazine

west into the broad col of Craig Cwm Sere – a real wind trap – then climbs again towards the top of Pen y Fan, where you zigzag through a short rocky section before reaching the flat summit plateau (C).

Take time to enjoy views that stretch across the entire Brecon Beacons National Park, then leave the summit by carefully heading north-north-east down another short rocky section that can be slippery. At the base of the rocks you’ll meet the fine ridge of Cefn Cwm Llwch, which you follow until a right fork in the path leads past disused quarries to the 562m summit of Allt Ddu (D).

Your path now leads down the

north-east flank of Allt Ddu towards the Plas-y-gaer settlement. The final 1km of your walk involves threading westwards along footpaths and farm tracks back to your parking spot, so follow your map carefully to ensure you stick to public rights of way.

Staying safe Although the terrain is suitable for walkers of all levels, this is a high mountain route. Check the weather and route carefully, carry the right kit and always take a map on the hill.

Start and finish

D

A

C B

This product includes mapping licensed from Ordnance Survey ® with the permission of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office. © Crown Copyright 2005. All rights reserved. License Number PU 100040361. This map was generated and printed by TrackLogs Digital Mapping software. For more information see www.tracklogs.co.uk.

SCOUTING 59

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FUN and GAMES Across

1/28 Birdsong now a different scouting activity? (4,8) 4 Sanitise tea mug if mucky! (8) 9/10 It well and truly puts Britain on the map (8,6) 11 Cleric’s odd ring (6) 12 Trucks acknowledge holding camper’s carry bags? (8) 13 Refuse newly-born kittens? (6) 15 Certain scout groups e.g. sold out (6) 18 Bear-following (6) 20 European language, one possessed by very attractive person (6) 23 Kent town’s snack (8) 26 Eerie, chilling, as a vine? (6) 27 Instrument that mixes oil in French wine (6) 28 See 1ac.

29 A fast dye blended for religious festival occasion (5-3) 30 See 14dn.

Crossword and wordsearch by Eddie James

PICTOGLYPHICS APRIL/MAY

Add the pictures to build syllables and find the secret Scouting word, name or phrase

1 2 3

47 107.868 1.4 2163 961

Ag

[Kr]4d105S 10.5

1

For the solutions to last issue’s puzzles, head to scouts.org.uk/magazine. scouts.org.uk/magazine

Down

2 Section of lexicon or dictionary relating to people of NE Europe (6) 3 A bad blow when the weather’s already cold? (9) 4/24 Desire full representation?

That’s our emblem! (5-2-3) 5 Cats, say, being tuneful (7) 6 Guides members set rigs around Langdale’s peak? (5) 7 Protective ditches in centre, N. Chester (8) 8 Ant’s nicest transformation? (6) 14/30 The common stag or hind – said to be studied, darling (3,4) 16 Returned from e.g. mountain, possibly needed cds (9) 17 Having the ability to make fancy caver tie? (8) 19 Climbed tree by gripping with hands and legs? Was bad, holding hard (7) 21 Trance produced by this delicious drink (6) 22 Wash bag item – somewhat odious pong emitted! (6) 24 See 4dn.

25 Small type of falcon’s leisure pursuit (5)

WIN! Scout camp goodies

With summer events fast approaching, we’re pleased to have over £450 of brilliant Scout products to win in this issue.

First prize ȓ ƻm|_$ Ƥ m ( (f I(_ (| (worth £205) ȓ LǼƤōƍƯƪ ɾʀ _L |( | \ \ ȣ m| I ɭɾʀȤ Second prize ȓ Ƥ m $LfLf= I(_ (| ȣ m| I ɭɼɾʀȤ ȓ ƻm|_$ Ƥ m 2m_$ ɾɻ _L |( Im_$ __ ȣ m| I ɭɼʀȤ Third prize ȓ Scouts backpacker tent (worth £45) ȓ Ƥ m _((yLf= = and pillow (worth £24) For your chance to win, answer the following question:

What is the weight of the Event Shelter?

Email your answer along with your name, address and phone number to shop@scouts.org.uk.

Scout Shops Ltd is the official retail arm of the Scout Association, online and at District Scout Shops. All profits go back into Scouting. For product news, competitions and offers check scouts.org. uk/shop, Twitter @ScoutShops or the Scout Shops Facebook page.

Terms and conditions

1. Subject to availability 2. Prize is as stated and cannot be transferred or exchanged 3. No cash alternative will be offered

SCOUTING 61

SIDE SPLITTER What’s the best way to start a fire using two sticks?

Make sure one of them is a match.

SCOUTING CROSSWORD APRIL/MAY

LAST WORD

CHRIS PACKHAM TV presenter and Birthday Badge winner Chris Packham shares his passion for all things wild You’re a famous animal lover – do you have a favourite animal?

I have a ‘top 10 list of favourite birds’, but there are 100 on it! I do like things that fly, though – butterflies, dragonflies and so on. But, ultimately, I like predators more than prey. Predatory birds would probably be top of my list

and starting fires. It didn’t have the community involvement that it does now. When I was a kid, if you weren’t good at sports, or you weren’t good at mathematics, it didn’t matter if you were any good at drawing or identifying birds

‘The Movement has grown to be more encompassing’ and sparrowhawks my favourite birds of all – dashing, quick, beautiful, effective, dispassionate predators. They are superb.

Picture: BBC Pictures

Have you always been passionate about animals?

Animal caring was something close to my heart from a young age. I wanted to keep animals and I often put them in jam jars, tanks and boxes and learned how to look after them. I’ve been lucky to keep all sorts of animals – I even had some lions in the house at one point. There wasn’t much of a house afterwards, obviously! These days I don’t want to keep things in that way. I have my dogs, and have a great companionship with them, but I don’t go out and see animals and think, ‘Oh, I must put him in a tank or a jar’ any more. I’d rather watch them in the wild.

Were you a Scout?

I wasn’t: it was different when I was a kid. I think it was more about camping

66 SCOUTING

– you were kind of outside of it. That’s what’s great about the Scouts now – it involves everyone. If you’re into looking after animals, skateboarding, or whatever it happens to be, you can receive due credit for that.

I think the Movement has grown to be more encompassing, more accessible, and therefore more important to helping young people.

What would you say to all the Scouts who are animal lovers?

It’s a fantastic way of developing a respect and an understanding that you’re responsible for life. If you have one animal, you’ve got to house, feed and water them. Ultimately, if you don’t do these things, they’ll die, which is unacceptable. By keeping animals, learning about them and, effectively, to love them for just being what they are, you’ll develop a greater affinity for all life and a desire to look after it.

February/March 2014