Welcome to Somerset Scouts
Somerset Scouting offers fun, challenge and adventure to around 4,500 members aged between 6 and 25 …. things are a bit different at the moment, in 2020. The following message is from our County Commissioner.
In the past six extraordinary months, many of our amazing adult volunteers have demonstrated even more incredible dedication, skill and creativity than is usually required in their roles. Remember back to February this year … most people had never even heard of Zoom!
By the power of video conferencing, social media and YouTube, thousands of our youth members have been able to continue Scouting in their own homes. We owe a huge debt of thanks to all those fabulous leaders who have persevered with delivering inspirational programme by virtual means, whilst Covid-19 has kept us separated. Thank you all for your determination, hard work and ongoing commitment which enabled us to remain together whilst apart. You are all very much appreciated and valued.
We are also grateful to all those amongst us who continued to work tirelessly and selflessly throughout lockdown, serving our communities in front line roles and essential services – real heroes.
In July, Scouting embarked on the long road back to ‘normality’. The current status for all Scout groups in the South West of England is AMBER. This is regulated by the National Youth Agency, the leading national charity for youth work. To enable us all to get back to face to face Scouting safely, we are following the comprehensive guidelines developed by the Scout Association.
Individual groups and sections across Somerset will return to face to face meetings gradually, when they are ready to do so. Preparing our premises, finding safe outdoor spaces, completing robust risk assessments (to ensure that we are Covid-secure) and thinking up socially-distanced activities, makes the job of all our adult volunteers even more challenging currently.
Some groups will continue to deliver online programmes for the foreseeable future and others will offer blended programmes.
Our current Amber status means that up to 5 adult volunteers can meet (face to face) with up to 15 youth members of a section at one time. Most meetings will be outdoors at present, but indoor activities might mean that the group size is reduced, if the meeting room is small.
Members and parents should be reassured that all adults in Somerset Scouting are working hard to ensure that returning to face to face activities will be as safe as possible.
Leaders – I am very aware that Scouting at the moment is really challenging. I know that this is not what you signed up for! Please do reach out for help and support if you need it. Your district and county teams are here for you. My email address is below. Please feel free to use it.
In these unprecedented times, whilst so much is uncertain and unknown for our young people, Scouting still strives to be a constant – offering stability, fun and…. skills for life.
Stay safe, Somerset.
Elizabeth Henderson (County Commissioner)
October 2020
