Today’s Boys’ Brigade ‘offers much more to young people’
The Boys’ Brigade has started a recruitment drive but knows it is battling against modern-day pressures facing youngsters.
The 5th Guernsey Boys’ Brigade and Girls’ Association wants more children from the age of five to join its programme of life skills, which include leadership, prioritisation and service to the community.
5th Guernsey captain Mark Robert said the local organisation had been supported by the UK Boys’ Brigade, which received grants from the UK government, to make major changes to its programme post-Covid in response to young people’s changing priorities and challenges.
‘I started at the Boys’ Brigade in the 1970s for about six years, then rejoined in the 1990s, and have stayed since,’ said Mr Robert.
‘I have seen a massive change in the boys, the programme and the organisation as a whole.
‘I think Covid has had a massive impact on children and what they choose to do, although during both lockdowns we had Boys’ Brigade at home, so as an organisation we didn’t really stop.
‘In general, there is so much going on for young people, and school events change our numbers. We would like more numbers because, even though it can be hard work, it is great fun.’
The Boys’ Brigade has four sections. Anchors for children aged between five and seven, juniors for those aged eight to 11, company for over 11s, and seniors who are recruited from age 15.
Despite its name, the Boys’ Brigade accepts girls locally, though that move required permission from UK headquarters and the church.
‘We are a Christian-based organisation,' Mr Robert said.
‘We encourage prayer and a lot of our activities are based on the Christian calendar. Easter, Valentine’s, Mother’s Day, our founder’s day, Remembrance Day, Guy Fawkes Night and Christmas are all covered.’
The Brigade recently visited the GSPCA, where youngsters met loggerhead turtle Barnacle Bill.
‘With the juniors, we did something called "poo and chew", which was looking at different animals in our environment and what happens when they eat.
‘We recreated it with chocolate and they absolutely loved it, although when I said we were going to do it they all looked at me like I was mad.
‘We have done visits to the police station, beaches, and walks, and we’re hoping to do the Ronez quarry walk soon. We try to do as much outdoor activity as possible.’
‘We’re here to support the community and we’ve had some really good nights. The children already here enjoy it.’
The Brigade meets on Thursday nights at Wesley Church. Parents interested in enrolling their children should make contact by email at wesleybbga@gmail.com.
