There are different types of ‘Leader’ within a Scout Group, so the answer really depends on what type of leader you wish to become.

Each ‘Section’ has a Leader in charge (the Section Leader, or SL) who must be uniformed. He or she is then supported by other leaders who are also in uniform and are Assistant Section Leaders (ASL’s). 

In addition to the uniformed leaders, there can be non-uniformed leaders who are formally ‘appointed’ and attend meetings each week, just like the uniformed leaders – These volunteers are known as Section Assistants.

Then there are Group ‘Occasional Helpers‘ – these are normally parents or supporters who occasionally (typically once or twice a month) help out at Section meetings or events. There is no actual fixed commitment here – other than what you agree with your Section Leader.

• You will receive recognition for your service, which will count towards long-service awards.
• You will also receive training in a wide range of skills to help you in your role. All training is free to you, and you can go on to include optional ‘specialist training’, such as becoming a qualified mini-bus driver or a climbing, kayaking, or hillwalking instructor. There are numerous Instructor courses for all ranges of sports and activities.
• Group policy dictates that ‘preferential treatment’ is given to children of Uniformed Members in joining the Group

Fundamentally, apart from the uniform, the amount of training (and recognition) is considerably less. You will still go through all the safety checks, and some mandatory ‘basic training’.

• You will be covered for Personal Accident and Medical Expenses Insurance whilst on Scouting ‘duties’.
• You will receive training to support you in your role
• You will receive recognition for your service, which will count towards long-service awards.

All Leaders – of whatever type – must be DBS Checked by Scouts. This is a simple process where we check your identity in case of anything ‘unsuitable when caring for children’.

The process is free and is completely confidential. The Group Scout Leader is notified that the check has been completed and is, or is not, OK. No details are released. All things being equal, you will get a certificate to confirm that you have ‘passed’ an ‘Enhanced Disclosure Barring Check’ (DBS) which is valid for 5 years and then must be renewed. These checks are normally instigated ‘on line’ directly from the GSL’s home computer and it is easiest for everyone if you can visit the GSL at his/her home to complete these checks.

There is a formal process which starts by the Group Scout Leader entering your personal details (name, date of birth, address, phone etc) onto the COMPASS system – the national Scout Association database. You will then be allocated your desired role, and you will be introduced to your Section Leader (if you don’t know them already!)

• You will be given a Membership number and access to your record on COMPASS so you can see what is recorded. COMPASS also holds your training record so, as you progress, you will be able to monitor your progress there.
• A DBS check will be started (this needs some co-operation from you providing documentary evidence).

You can then start attending your Section meetings, where you will begin to learn many skills and you will develop through ‘on the job’ training. The Section Leader will look after you and help you throughout.

In the first instance, the best person is probably your GSL or the Assistant GSLs – Emma Finch. Or you can reach out to the Scouting Support Officer, Kirstie Armsworth.