Scouting movement steps up with bigger focus on life skills
A NEW strategy putting life skills at the forefront of Scouting is being launched by the organisation.
The Skills for Life initiative sets out a plan for the next five years that will prepare more young people with relevant skills and experiences that can allow them to play a greater role in the community.
The nationwide strategy aims to empower its volunteers and build on the work of its Scouting for All initiative.
Bailiwick commissioner Nick Paluch said it was well worth embracing.
‘The new strategy focuses on skills for life, making Scouting as relevant as possible and offering our members skills that they wouldn’t learn anywhere else,’ he said.
‘We want to be open to more people and have a bigger impact on the community around us.’
Mr Paluch said the organisation provided unique experiences that could improve someone’s confidence, leadership skills, self-esteem and employability.
‘Those are skills you cannot learn out of a textbook.’
Produced in close collaboration with volunteers, young people and members of the public, the strategy is result of a two-year consultation with more than 15,000 people.
Chief Scout Bear Grylls said it was ‘an incredible moment for UK Scouting’.
‘We’ve got a new vision, a new brand and renewed determination to change lives for the better. It’s a vision that inspires me and I hope it inspires you too.
‘Now let’s get out there and deliver this amazing plan together.’
The strategy will renew the focus on improving volunteer recruitment, training and support. It sets out a plan for major digital investment to aid programme planning and delivery for all age groups.
