The aim of this page is to provide information to both young people aged 14-18 years of age who are interested in leadership at a local Scout Group, and to adults who have the opportunity of leadership help from young people. It is important that all involved with young leaders understand how the scheme works.

All young people (aged 14 to 18) who are helping out with Beavers, Cubs or Scouts must register with the District Young Leader Unit, whether or not they are also registered with an Explorer Unit. The registration process is simple and can be completed here.

Young Leader Responsibilities

• Ensure you are registered
• Complete Module A training within 6 months
• Complete other modules as required
• Complete "missions" over the course of each year
• Have fun!

Scout Group Responsibilities

• Ensure Young Leaders are registered (GSL)

Section Leader Responsibilities

Support Young Leader

Give Young Leader responsibilities

Encourage Young Leader to attend training

Encourage Young Leader to complete missions

Introduction to the Young Leaders' Scheme

Who are Young Leaders?

Young Leaders are aged between 14 and 18 years of age and work in a Beaver Scout Colony, Cub Scout Pack or Scout Troop. In other words, they are Explorer Scouts whose Scouting mostly involves working with one of the younger Sections.

As such, the Young Leaders' Unit may not need to meet as frequently as other types of Explorer Scout Unit in the District. Young Leaders are, however, encouraged to take part in the programme of activities run by other Expplorer Scout Units or the District. Indeed a Young Leader might also belong to one of the other Explorer Scout Units within the District.

Why be a Young Leader?

The Young Leaders' Scheme helps Explorer Scouts to develop and grow as individuals. It allows them to make a valuable contribution to their community and give service to others. The scheme also helps them fulfil the service elements of their awards.

Different way of being a Young Leader

Young Leaders' can decide that the Young Leaders Scheme is the only way they want to be involved in Explorer Scouting. Alternatively, some Explorer Scouts may be Young Leaders for a relatively short period of time

They may be a member of another Explorer Scout Unit and have decided to do a period of service with the Beaver Scout Colony to satisfy the requirements of the Chief Scout Diamond Award. In each of these situations, their membership of the Young Leaders Unit is valid and should be encouraged. Flexibility is key to the operation of the Young Leaders Unit.

Young People First

Guidance for Young Leaders

It is the policy of the Scout Association to safeguard the welfare of all Members by protecting them from physical, sexual and emotional harm.

You must have your own copy of this guidance before you start being a Young Leader, even if you are just trying out the role.

Code of behaviour

• DO put this code in to practice at all times
• DO treat everyone with respect
• DO treat all young people equally - show no favouritism
• DO plan activities with more than one other person present, or at least within sight and hearing of others
• DO avoid situations that could affect relationships within the group (e.g. a relationship between a Young Leader and a youth member
• DO have seperate sleeping accommodation for young people, Young Leaders and adults
• DO allow young people to talk about any concerns they have
• DO encourage others to talk freely about attitudes or behaviours they don't like
• DO steer clear of inappropriate attention seeking behaviour e.g. flirting, crushes, tantrums, etc
• DO remember this code even at sensitive moments e.g. when responding to bullying, bereavement or abuse
• DO remember this code when sending texts, emails, making phone calls and using the internet
• DO tell adult Leaders where you are and what you are doing at all times
• DO remember someone else might misunderstand your behaviour, however well meant
• DON'T trivialise abuse
• DON'T allow bullying
• DON'T engage in inappropriate behaviour or contact e.g. play fights, insults, obscene gestures
• DON'T get involved in physical contact games with young people, even if you are running them
• DON'T make threats or suggestive or offensive remarks to a young person, even in fun
• DON'T drink alcohol on Scouting activities
• DON'T let allegations, suspicions, or concerns about abuse go unreported
• DON'T believe 'it'll never happen to me'

What happens if...?

• A young person tells you about abuse by someone else:

1. allow the young person to talk without interruption, just accept what is said

2. tell the young person that you treat what has been said seriously but you must pass it on to an adult Leader

3. immediately tell an adult Leader

4. make a note of the facts as you know them and give the information to the same Leader

• If you have a concern about a young person or you get a complaint about anyone, including yourself:

1. immediately tell an adult Leader

2. make a note of the facts as you know them and give the information to the same Leader