Like many groups and sections across the Region, our Networks have remained busy during lockdown, finding creative ways to meet online or carry out areas of programme individually.

Online meetings have included quizzes, an escape room and a number of different games. They have also been a great opportunity to socialise with other young people, discuss issues such as finding work or continuing to study during lockdown, and to stay connected.

There has also been a focus on top awards by many Networkers across the region. In the Borders they have met frequently to discuss their work on Duke of Edinburgh Gold and the Queens Scout Award, and planning has begun for an expedition once those can be held again. There have also been one-to-one discussions between District Scout Network Commissioners and individuals about specific parts of their awards, with new and creative ideas of how to continue during lockdown coming to the fore.

Some members have taken advantage of the fact that the Scouts of the World Award Discovery events have moved online. This has meant that individuals have been able to make a start on this award without having to travel across the UK to attend this crucial first part. Hopefully this will lead eventually to the first Networker from the region gaining this elusive award.

During lockdown the UK have also been recruiting young people for the next World Scout Moot in Ireland in 2022, and Networkers across the region have been applying. A moot is like a jamboree for those aged 18-26, and is an opportunity to meet scouts from around the world and to join in a wide variety of activities. There will be a second round of recruitment, and you can find out more and register your interest on the contingent website.

Talk is now turning to meeting up again in person soon, with various ideas being discussed. For the moment, while those over 18 are limited to groups of people from only 5 households, these ideas are for small groups. However, Network will continue to adapt as the current situation evolves, hopefully with a return to more adventurous activities sooner rather than later.  

If you are aged 18-24 and what to find out more, why not get in touch with your local District Network? If you need help identifying the correct person to contact, please reach out to the Region and we can put you in touch. 

 

Laura Gilman
Assistant Regional Commissioner, Network
laurathered@hotmail.com