Parents Info Pages

Scouting offers fun, challenge and adventure to nearly 400,000 young people in the UK and we're delighted your child is joining us. We know that young people thrive in safe surroundings. We are therefore commited to ensuring that Scouting is both enjoyable and safe for everyone who takes part.

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

Leaders are interviewed locally and are asked o provide references. Everyone working with young people in Scouting is required to undertake a Criminal Records Check.

We have a clear code of behaviour. It's often referred to as the 'yellow card' policy because of the pocket sized reminder card all adults are asked to keep and carry with them. This is also included in the training that leaders receive. This gives advice about how young people should be treated and we expect everyone to follow it.

The 'Young People First' policy is held up as an example of best practice and praised by the child protection agencies. The Scout Association also enjoys the confidence and trust of thousands of parents who each week place their children in our care.

It is the policy of The Scout Association to safeguard the welfare of all Members by protecting them from physical, sexual and emotional harm.

The Scout Association is committed to:

• taking into account in all its considerations and activities the interests and well- being of young people;
• respecting the rights, wishes and feelings of the young people with whom it is working
• taking all reasonable practicable steps to protect them from physical, sexual and emotional abuse, and
• promoting the welfare of young people and their protection within a relationship of trust.

All adults aged eighteen or over, no matter what their role or involvement within Scouting, are responsible for putting this policy into practice at all times.

All leaders receive training on a wide range of topics. We expect all leaders to take courses in basic first aid and child protection.

As an organisation that provides exciting activities for young people we take safety very seriously. If you are concerned about the safety of any Scouting activity and would like to know more about the safety arrangements in place you should speak to your child's leader, or get in touch with us if you prefer.

All leaders taking young people on outings or camps will give you notice in writing, ask for your permission and give you a way of contacting the group while they are away.

We will never ask to take individual young people away on their own or without another adult being present. All residential activities (camps and sleepovers) will have at least two adults present, unless the young people are participating in an expedition or event where adults are not expected to attend at all. We will tell you if there is to be no adult presence at an activity.