I became a Cub leader because of the amazing job my leaders did for me when I was younger.

Around 1998, my mum took me to the Beaver Scouts (the youngest section) for the first time. I made great friends and great memories. After that, it was Cub Scouts, then Scouts, then Explorer Scouts and becoming a Young Leader. Scouts was very important when I was growing up because my family didn’t have a garden or a car, so we didn’t go overnight camping or go on grand outdoor adventures. Having aspergers syndrome (autism), anything new was extremely scary.

Scouts opened up a much larger horizon. My leaders, Jim and Cary, among many others, were exceptional people to look up to when you’re still learning about the world and your place in it. I learned later that they liaised with my mum (who would also help out on occasional camps) to ensure I was totally included in every activity – something any kid would take for granted. From knots, to dodgeball, to arts and crafts, every activity they led was fun, engaging and memorable.

Naturally, when I was old enough and when asked if I wanted to help out at the Cubs, I jumped at the chance, admittedly nervously. Looking after and leading 20 young people at a time sounded daunting but it actually wasn’t. The young people were eager and the nights rolled on with tonnes of fun, and new life skills which are milestones by both the young people (and leaders) earning badges.

I’ve been leading the 154th Cub Scout section for a number of years now and have always felt very well supported by my team, whether they’re parent volunteers or qualified Scout Leaders. The Scout Organisation has ensured I’m well trained in planning fun activities, assessing risks and First Aid. We’ve done everything from kayaking to sewing so all is good.

That original Cub group (of 2008) that I was a young leader for are now leaving University. It’s amazing when I bump into one in the street and they tell me they still remember the time they found a starfish on a Cub Scout a beach trip or the goal they scored at a Scout camp football match. Some of them even went on to become Young Leaders too.

The difference leader volunteers make to a young person who maybe doesn’t go on foreign holidays or struggles with their shoelaces is massive. Teaching them a life skill that they then demonstrate themselves a week later is incomprehensible. Running or helping a Scout group that is open to all ages, all genders and all abilities is a massive privilege and a lot of fun. The responsibility for their wellbeing and creating great experiences is not something any good Scout Leader takes lightly. We’re not there to boss the young people around but ultimately have as much fun as them in a safe, respectful and constructive environment.

Anyone who volunteers with the Scout Association will be part of a great team of leaders and will work with some amazing young people who are keen to try new and positive experiences!