1st Bishopthorpe Scout Group

Volunteering

The Scout Movement has always relied on the support of a volunteer leadership and that is the basis upon which all Scout Groups, including 1st Bishopthorpe, operate. There are no paid posts, all the positions from the Group Scout Leader to our Young Leaders are taken by people who have volunteered. Many of those who are Leaders within the Group came up through Scouts themselves, but equally many have not, and got involved through other routes. You don't have to have been a Scout to be a Scout Leader! As well as the leaders of the sections, we also have Group Committee with roles including Chairman and Treasurer, and some additional posts including Quartermaster and Minibus Coordinator.

It goes without saying therefore that the success of the Group relies heavily on these volunteers and we always need more help! If you enjoy, or think you would enjoy, working with young people, thinking of imaginative ways to challenge them and have fun at the same time, then Scouting could be for you. It can be hard work at times, but it is always immensely satisfying and can provide some great experiences. Alternatively, if you want to get involved but can't make the full commitment of becoming a leader, the sections always have a need for ad hoc support, whether that be helping with transport or running an evening. From time to time we will also need new volunteers to take on the Group Committee roles.

Whether you would like to become a leader or just want to help out on an ad hoc basis, everyone who regularly comes into contact with young people in the Group or is left alone with them (e.g. providing a lift from the Scout Hut to another location) will be required to complete a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check. This is free of any charge and it only takes 10-15 minutes to complete the application form (though the check and subsequent response can take a few months to come through).