AVON Vale district scout group is on the look out for volunteers due to the rise in young people eager to join the worldwide movement.
The area which covers Evesham and Pershore has found an increase in the number of children who want to develop new skills, earn badges and make new friends means that would-be members are on a waiting list.
The number of Beaver Scouts (boys and girls aged six to eight) in Avon Vale district has increased by more than 12 per cent in the last two years and a 50 percent increase of Explorers (14 to 17-year olds) in the same period.
However, the number of youngsters aged four to 14 on the waiting list has increased in the same period by just under 40 per cent.
“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,” Avon Vale volunteer Nigel Taylor said.
“This could be working with any of the sections, fund raising, IT, administration or as a trustee. Whatever time you can give, we will find you a role.”
Scouting provides over 250 activities and prides itself on offering something for everyone. Young people can also learn and develop skills for life, such as communication, independence, leadership, problem solving, responsibility and teamwork.
“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,” he added.
Emma Welch-Moore, 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.”
National scout ambassador, explorer Ed Stafford added: “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.”
Visit www.scouts.org.uk/join for further information about becoming a volunteer.
