As an adult, what can Scouting offer to me?

All adults, be they Leaders, Helpers, Advisors or Administrators, are there to ensure that the young members get the most possible out of Scouting. This can often involve hands-on experience, giving the adults a chance to join in the activities.

But I have no qualifications for working with children?

Many Leaders, Helpers and Advisors may already have their own specialist skills. Scouting has a comprehensive training programme for adults with many of its own instructors. This can mean reduced rates for otherwise very costly training courses. These courses range from Mountain Leadership to Mini Bus Driving to Special Needs and other child-related issues more commonly learnt on specialist courses.

I am under 25, can I be involved?

There are roles for adults between the ages of 18 and 25, and they may also join the County/Area Network. This is the next stage on from Explorer Scouts but it has no Leaders. It is run by the members for the members. There is no requirement to attend meetings. If there is something they want to do they can do it. If you are at University, you may well find your University has its own Network branch which organises weekends away and adventurous activities.

I would like to join but cannot offer much time?

If you can't afford the time to make a regular commitment, there are other ways to take part, as a Helper or as an Executive Committee member. Helpers can be anything from a Mini Bus driver for outings to someone that can lend a hand once a term for Beaver meetings. The Executive Committee raises funds and manages the Group finances, and deals with Group administration. Like any committee, it has a Chairman, a Treasurer and a Secretary. For certain Group events, a sub-committee may be required.