Could you make a difference?
Did you know that the number of children and young people aged 4 to 17 involved in Scouts in Birmingham has increased by nearly 7% in the last two years? There have been significant increases in Squirrels (boys and girls aged 4 to 6), Scouts (boys and girls aged 10 to 14) and Explorers (boys and girls aged 14 to 17). However, the number of people aged 4 to 17 who want to join now exceeds 1,000.
With activities ranging from archery to cooking, emergency aid to global issues and pioneering to water activities, more children and young people are wanting to join. Scouting provides over 250 activities and there is something for everyone. Young people can also learn and develop skills for life, such as communication, independence, leadership, problem solving, responsibility and team working.
The call is for more people to volunteer. Aaron, a Lead volunteer for a Scout Group said: “We are looking for some more people to step forward and volunteer.” He added: “This could be working with any of the sections, fund raising, IT, administration or as a Trustee. Whatever time you can give, we would find you a role.”
Volunteer Nigel said: “Volunteering with Scouts is a great opportunity to help young people learn and develop skills along with having fun and trying out new activities. It’s also a great opportunity to learn and develop new skills yourself, make friends, try new activities and take pride in seeing young people develop.” He added: “As volunteers we can help put the foundations in place. We then encourage the children and young people to build upon them as they try new activities and learn skills for life. Children and young people want adventure, and we provide the opportunity to have those adventures. The fact that more young people are joining shows that we are providing activities and opportunities that they want to do.”
Emma, who has been a volunteer for a few months said: “I stepped forward to help with the Scouts as my son wanted to join. I’ve learnt from other volunteers involved in the Group and I’ve also passed on my knowledge and experience to others. It’s great to see the young people have fun, try new activities, make new friends and develop new skills.”
Scout Ambassador Ed Stafford said: “Giving a little of your time can make a massive difference. Not only does volunteering make you feel great, it creates more opportunities for young people, so win, win.”
For further information about becoming a volunteer please visit Birmingham Scouts – Skills For Life
