People help Scouting in many ways . . . .

Working directly with young people. This can be either every week or on an occasional basis and includes roles such as leaders, helpers and members of the Scout Fellowship. This might include helping to run meetings, running games and activities, collecting membership fees or assisting with outings.

This role appeals to people who like to spend their time with children and young people – parents often take on this role and then find they enjoy it so much they stay even when their children move to an older section.

Looking after the administrative side of Scouting. Like all organisations Scouting needs people to help with the paperwork such as Group Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer. Tasks might include chairing meetings, keeping records, preparing agendas and minutes, producing a budget or planning the AGM.

These roles often appeal to people who want to support Scouting but do not want to work directly with young people. It also suits those who can’t help on a weekly basis.

Supporting other Adults. With many adult volunteers involved in Scouting in 1st Langley, people with the skills to motivate, train and manage others are in demand. We need people with technical knowledge in areas such as health and safety or adventurous activities that they can pass on to other adults.

There are many reasons for people choosing to help 1st Langley Scouts including:

•It’s fun!

•Helping the local community

•Using existing talents

•Encouraging the next generation

•Gaining new skills

•Enhancing career prospects

•Meeting new and interesting people

Who can volunteer?

Men and women over the age of 18 (there is no upper age limit) with a commitment to the aims of Scouting can be volunteers. The Scout Association is a diverse organisation and welcomes members from all sections of the community.

What if I’m under 18?

Young people aged 14 to 18 can be helpers and leaders with our younger sections - Beavers, Cubs and Scouts. They become members of a Young Leaders’ Unit, which is part of Explorer Scouting, where there is a Young Leaders' Scheme to support and train them.

Will I have to complete and application form or have an interview?

Volunteers are initially recruited using and informal interview to discuss which role would suit them best and the opportunities available. A simple appointment form needs to be completed and, as safety is our top priority, we ask all volunteers to allow us to complete checks to ensure there is no reason why they shouldn’t be involved in an organisation working directly with young people.

How much time is involved?

Our many volunteer opportunities vary in the amount of time commitment required, from occasional help to ongoing weekly involvement. We will do our best to find a role suited to your availability.

Do I have to wear a uniform?

We have both uniformed and non-uniformed roles available.

Do you pay expenses?

We pay out-of-pocket expenses and ask you to agree any expenses in advance with your section leader or Group Scout Leader.

Where can I help?

Many of our volunteers help close to home but others prefer to near their workplace or at another location with which they have a connection. This can be discussed when considering your role.

What training is there?

A lot of your training will be ‘on the job’ and you will receive induction locally. There is also a modular training scheme to help people gain the knowledge they need. There are 4 modules called ‘Getting Started’ that everyone should attend. Other modules are taken according to your role and your previous experience. It is a flexible and volunteer-friendly system.

Will I be insured?

Scouting has the appropriate insurance for its members and the activities they organise, provided that volunteers comply with the organisation’s rules. Please ask for more details.

How do I apply?

Please visit our Contacts Page