FAQs - Your questions answered...
Below are some frequently asked questions.
Why do you have a rota?
As with any organisation that works with young people we are required to have an appropriate ratio of adult to children during our meetings and activities. All our leaders are volunteers but sometimes our some of our leader are unable to make it to the weekly meetings due to work or family commitments. That’s why we operate a rota to help the leaders to ensure we have enough adults present to provide great scouting.
What am I expected to do?
Just turn up and lend a hand. No preparation or special skills are required. However, if you see on the programme or rota something you have an interest or skill in please let your leader know so they can make use of your skills. If you have any disabilities or other limitations that's not a problem – sometimes an extra pair of eyes is enough whilst the leaders sort out the other activities.
Is it physical or demanding?
Not if you don’t want it to be. Sometimes we just need a hand keeping an eye on activities. This can be craft – watching a game or talking to the children. It can be sitting down as much as running around – but if you have specific things can want to or cannot do – let us know.
I have a younger child can i bring them with me?
Please speak to your leaders about this - General, your younger children may accompany you on your rota evening and can take part in certain programme items (at the discretion of the leaders). Please remember that they remain your responsibility throughout the meeting.
Do I need to under go any background checks?
The safety of our members is our first priority so you will need to complete our Adult Information Form. If you choose to help more than once a month or come along on our overnight adventures you will need undertake a simple Disclosure and Barring Service Check (DBS check).
What happens if I can’t make my night?
In the first instance please try and swap with another parent. Collection time is ideal for asking if anyone can swap – as parents are normally stood waiting. Beyond this please tell your leader and they may be able to swap.
Can an older sibling take my place?
Only if they are over 18 otherwise they cannot count as an adult. However, if your 14-18 year old is interested in helping out as a Young Leader maybe as part of their service area for their Duke of Edinburgh please let your leaders!
My child isn't keen on be being there.
Thanks to the support from parents we are able to run great programmes and offer places in our scout group to more young people. Please explain to your child that there would be no cubs/ beavers without the mummies and daddies that help. Plus we can put you with a different group of children if possible!
I enjoyed my night, can I do it more often?
Yes! There's lots of ways to get involved and help us provide the fun and adventure of scouting to the young people in our area. Click here to find out about the many different ways you can get involved in a way that really suit you and fits in with your life.
Not all roles involve wearing uniform or working directly with young people and we offer lots of opportunities to learn about scouting to support you – some learning will even be useful to you in your work place!