Getting people to move from the rota to a uniformed role

Once a parent looks comfortable helping to run a game or is starting to use their initiative ask them for some direct help with planning a session.  

Ask them to look for a game or craft activity on the theme of next week’s session and give them a specific time limit for that activity.

It really doesn’t matter what you ask them to do, the idea is that they get that amazing feeling of satisfaction when an activity they have devised is enjoyed by the whole section.

After a while ask you’re the people on your rota for help to organise and plan an outing, they made be confident to plan it all on their own with guidance from you

Once they are happy running an activity and is happy to find and run a game or creative activity, invite them to plan meetings.

Listen to their thoughts and ideas and make them feel valued in the team by implementing some of them.

You can then introduce the section planning resource books and online resources. You have now shown them how easy planning a session is, how much time it takes and also that you work well as a team.

During this time, you will have developed a good working relationship with your helper(s).

They have enjoyed the sessions they have participated in; they have experienced running an activity on their own and have grown in confidence. They will be having fun!

After a few months of helping on the rota on their terms, you can now close the deal by asking them to consider becoming a leader or section assistant. They may just be waiting to be asked. 

The training may encourage them if you describe the benefits, as could the skills that they can add to their CV.  But don’t scare them off by making it sound like a lot of extra time and commitment!

They may just want to be part of the team and you can always explain that they are doing the role anyway so they may as well take on an adult appointment and take advantage of all the benefits that come with it. (wear uniform and accrue service awards etc!)

The people has said yes, fantastic, you have already completed most of their induction. You need to continue to be as supportive and ensure they are inducted well and complete their adult information form and getting start training.

Don’t panic!

You have a confident assistant who just does not wish to be in uniform, they are still a real asset to your section, and you can continue to use them on the section rota.

Don’t take it personally and continue to take advantage of their skills with the section rota. And you never know, one day they might say yes!