Safeguarding

We’ve made some changes to the Yellow Card. 

From 1 January 2024, the new requirement is for everyone to report any concern directly to the UK HQ Safeguarding Team.

This makes sure that we’re aware of concerns as soon as possible and can put measures in place to minimise risks to children, young people and adults at risk. 

The UK HQ Safeguarding team will be on hand to provide volunteers with advice, support and guidance from the moment a concern is reported. If a volunteer informs another member about the concern, then both individuals must then report direct to the UK HQ Safeguarding team. 

Another change we’ve made is that anyone reporting a concern who has a personal relationship or family connection with those involved needs to step back from the situation and inform the UK HQ Safeguarding Team.

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

ALL adults in Scouting are subject to a mandatory check from the Disclosure and Disbarring Service (formerly known as a CRB check) and the appointment of Leaders follows a rigorous regime of taking up references and interviews. 

We are committed to:

• Taking the interests and well-being of young people into account, in all our considerations and activities.

• Respecting the rights, wishes and feelings of the young people with whom we work.

• Taking all reasonable practicable steps to protect them from neglect, physical, sexual and emotional abuse.

• Promoting the welfare of young people and their protection within a position of trust.

All adults in Scouting are responsible for putting this policy into practice at all times.

All adults MUST adhere to the Yellow Card 'Young People First' code of Practice.

All adults in Scouting undergo mandatory Safeguarding training which MUST be renewed at regular interviews

Training

We expect all leaders to take courses in basic first aid and child protection. Special training is provided for those taking young people away on residential events like camps and sleepovers.

Outings and camps

All leaders taking young people on outings or camps will give you notice in writing, ask for your permission and provide you with a method of contacting the group while they are away. We will never ask to take individual young people away on their own or without another adult being present.

What to do if you have concerns

If you are unhappy with anything relating to your child's time in Scouting you should raise it with your child's leaders. If you would rather speak to someone else, please contact the Scout Information Centre on 0845 300 1818.

The code of practice: