Community engagement
Playing our part at the heart of the community has always been core to what we do as Scouts.
Image
Identifying and mapping your community
Understanding your current situation is the first step. You could consider these as two topics; population and geography. Ask yourself some questions:
Population
- Does your group reflect your local community?
- Is there a good mix of people from different backgrounds?
- How many young people live nearby?
- Who does your group matter most to?
This will help you to identify your stakeholders.
You’ll find information on your local community on your local council website and the Office for National Statistics website.
Geography
Communities big and small will have a wide range of organisations operating within them. Why don’t you create a map or write a list? Consider the locations of the following:
- Education – schools, colleges, universities
- Business – local independents and big national chains
- Charities – don't forget other Scout Groups and youth organisations
- Faith groups
- Local government and service providers.
Make Contact
If you are unsure where to start, take a look at our hints and tips:
Universities
Every September thousands of young people choose to further their education - they may leave their home town to go off to their chosen education establishment. Many of them are already in scouting or guiding and some are leaders and are keen to continue volunteering. Others are not members but maybe interested in volunteering opportunities.
Take a look at the student recruitment page on the scouts.org.uk web site to find out more about how to engage and make contact.
Local business
Having contacts in local business opens your doors to many different opportunities. These can vary from town to city and villages. The key is knowing your community, and how and what you can do. take a look at the association's guide to help you on your way. Whether that’s to gain new volunteers or help support a session to sponsorship
Housing developments
Planning authorities and developers may be in a position to support with the development of community buildings and facilities, creating opportunities for meeting places. They may be able to promote your Group in their home buyer welcome pack.
Faith organisations
These might be easily identifiable by the building in which they meet, some will be a little hidden and need researching to locate and find contact details. Once you have established contact, members of faith communities could help you with name generation when looking to recruit new leaders or finding places to meet.
Local charities and branches of national charities
Google maps and other online tools are great ways to identify charities that are in your area. Reaching out and making contact could help you both. They might be willing to assist with programme delivery in return for supporting their next fundraising event for example.
Emergency services
Local police, fire and rescue service and others may be able to help with programme resources, visits and provide networking opportunities.
Community social media
These are useful for connecting with others and promoting your opportunities. Some sites to explore include: Nextdoor, your local area facebook groups, local community weobsites and Voluntary Action.
