Scouting in the community

Scouting has a positive impact on communities across the UK. Strong values and making a positive contribution to society have always underpinned our movement.

You are now likely to find us planting trees, leading recycling schemes and helping older people use the internet. As a movement, Scouting is not afraid to change and while our values remain constant, what we do must evolve to meet the needs of today’s society.

But exactly how much does Scouting contribute?

• Some 88% of our young people said scouting has helped them develop key skills
• 97% reckoned Scouting helped them make friends and build relationships with other people.
• More than 90% of Scouting’s volunteers say it has helped them develop personal and practical skills.
• 36% of former members volunteer regularly (as least two hours per week) set against only 26% of the general population.

Recently scouts from 16th Wyre Forest have helped out litter picking along the canal with the Canal & River Trust, Coppicing work with the Severn Valley Railway and Bishops Wood and making Eco Bricks for use building a school in the developing world with the Pickup Artists.

So the next time you see a Scout in the street, look beyond the woggle and neckerchief – you’re looking at a citizen of the future and one of tomorrow’s leaders today. Better still, offer to give a little time yourself.