As a volunteer-led movement, we are proud of every single one of our superstar volunteers. They are the backbone of South East Scotland Scouting. Next in our series ‘Meet our Volunteer’, we’d like to introduce you to Jacqui Phillips, Cub Leader at the 139th Braid Scout Group (St. John Vianney Church Hall) in the Braid District.
Read her story and find the perfect volunteer role for yourself. Whether you want to work with young people directly or help behind the scenes, there’s something for everyone at Scouts.
Name – Jacqui Phillips
Group/District – 139th Braid Scout Group (St. John Vianney Church Hall), Braid District
Role – (main role) Cub Scout Leader, helps across the Group in a number of other ways
My time in Scouting
I started scouting over 30 years ago. I was a Ranger Guide and working with a local Guide unit where there was a joint campfire with the local Scout Group. A Scouter called Brian asked to borrow my torch which I lent him but he lost it. A few weeks later he asked me on a date just before my 18th birthday. His mum was starting up a Beaver colony – one of the first when Beavers was first launched – and asked if I would like to come and help. This is how my Scouting story began.
Brian and I worked together with the 139th Liberton (at the time) for years and had lots of boys through our doors including nephews. We were married on 16th June 1989 and moved to Musselburgh where we were unable to travel to our local group but never handed in our warrants.
We came back and took over fully running the Scout Group looking after Beavers, Cubs and Scouts. Of course, we also welcomed girls after asking if we could give it a go before the Scout Association officially included girls in the movement. The boys in the group became protective and gentleman at the same time. My motto was, and still is, inclusive not exclusive – everyone is welcome no matter your background. We have young people of different nationalities, cultures and so many different promises. Those who are deaf, blind or physically handicapped all are treated the same.
I’m delighted to say that our Scout Group is in its 60’s now. We honestly didn’t know if the pandemic would finish it off but I’m pleased to report that we are back to building our group back up again. And stronger than before.
Over the years we have taken the Scouts to Arizona for 4 weeks where we were the first Scottish Scout Group to visit Camp Geronimo and also bring girls. A fond memory was hiking the Grand Canyon after Whitewater rafting for 5 days down the Colorado. Some other highlights include PGL camps and camps at the Bonaly Scout Centre.
In welcoming all we are also pleased that we could welcome the sons and granddaughters of our amazing treasurer, thus keeping the scouting experience going closer to home also.
What makes our Scout Group special?
Camaraderie and friendship. Our Scout Group is great because of all our leaders. Adult volunteers who kindly give up their time to support the young people who live in and around the Braid area in Edinburgh. I’d highly recommend anyone to join Scouts and who know you might meet your husband, wife or best friend here too! Brian and I are still Scouting and still happily married.
Thinking of becoming a volunteer?
Why not take get in touch to discuss volunteering opportunities. We need your help.
Volunteers make Scouts happen at a national level as well as a local one. From our Chief Scout and Chair of our Board to the incredible volunteers who support young people as leaders and occasional helpers at our local groups, these are just some of the superstars who’ve stepped up to inspire a generation.
We’re proud that Scouts is a volunteer led movement. That’s where you come in.
VOLUNTEER ROLES
There are lots of ways you can get more involved with Scouts as a parent, carer or family member. From helping out occasionally on a family rota or playing a vital role behind the scenes, to stepping up as a leader, our volunteering activities are as varied as you.
We’re talking tidy uppers and tea makers, session planners and Zoom navigators, fundraisers and treasurers, and all round team players to support our young people.
The good news is you shape what you do and the time you have to give. Scouts happens when a lot of us give a little (and no, you don’t have to be a Scout or outdoors expert to volunteer).
Across the Braid District, the current vacancies include:
- Group Scout Leaders
- Occasional helpers
- Cub Leaders
- Assistant Scout Leader
- Beaver Leader
- District Explorer Scout Commissioner
- District Scout Network Commissioner
What to expect:
- A warm welcome
- Flexibility to get involved in a way that works for you
- Easy access to training and resources online
- Friendly ongoing support from local volunteers
No two weeks are the same, but the impact you make is always great.
Make a difference, volunteer today
To find out more about helping out, speak to the leader at your local group or use our volunteer enquiry from which can be found using the option below. Share your details and a volunteer from your local team will be in touch soon.
