Young people thrive in safe surroundings. We’re committed to ensuring that Scouting in the Pennine district is both enjoyable and safe for everyone who takes part, along with providing parents / carers with peace of mind.
Appointing the Adult Volunteers who work with Young People in Scouting The Appointment Process covers Adult Volunteers wishing to become a Leader within a Section, as well as other support roles. This process includes a meeting with the Appointments Advisory Committee and the approval of the District or County Commissioner. References are requested and an Enhanced Disclosure Check (DBS) is required.
Code of behaviour The Scout Association has a clear code of behaviour which is given to all adults working in Scouting, regardless of their role. This is also included in the training that leaders receive and offers advice about how young people should be treated. Everyone is expected to follow it.
The adult code of behaviour is called the Yellow Card and information (and a download) can be found here. The code of behaviour for Young Leaders is called the Orange Card and information (and a download) can be found here.
We also have a complete set of Polices and rules plus a layout of how Scouting is organised and this can be found here.
Training All Section Leaders and members, Group Lead Volunteers and those in District and/or County roles are required to complete Scout Association Training in basic first aid and child protection. These have to be updated every three years. In addition, there is extra training available to supplement compulsory basic training. District and County Lead Volunteers also need to complete additional Safeguarding training.
Additional training is provided for Adult Volunteers wishing to run overnight activities, such as camps and sleepovers. These activities require a Nights Away Permit Holder to be present and the permission of the District Lead Volunteer.
The County Safeguarding Awareness Coordinator is a key member of the adult training team and provides support through the Adult Training Scheme. Each role holder completes a nationally recognised Safeguarding Training course.
What to do if you have concerns
If you are unhappy with anything relating to your child’s time in Scouting you should raise it with your child’s leaders first of all, or with the Group Lead Volunteer. We have a clear and respected policy for following up complaints which can be found here.
If you have any safeguarding concerns that you feel you may not want to discuss with Section or Group Leaders they can be raised with either the District or County Lead Volunteers or directly to the National Safeguarding team via safeguarding@scouts.org.uk
