The 6th East Kilbride Scout Group, like all Scout groups, aims to provide a welcoming and supportive volunteer journey. While specific local details might vary, the general process for a new volunteer typically follows these steps:
1. Initial Contact and Enquiry:
- Reaching out: A potential volunteer usually expresses interest through the 6th East Kilbride Scout Group’s website, social media, or by contacting a leader directly.
- Initial discussion: There will likely be an informal conversation to understand the volunteer’s interests, availability, and what they hope to gain from volunteering. This is also where the group can explain the different roles available. The 6th East Kilbride explicitly states “No prior experience is necessary!” and they welcome a variety of skills.
2. Welcome and Induction (First Few Weeks/Months):
- Informal welcome: The group will aim to make the new volunteer feel welcome and integrated into the team.
- Information sharing: The Team Leader or Lead Volunteer will discuss how Scouts works both nationally and locally, outlining the different sections (Squirrels, Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Explorers) and their age ranges.
- Role clarity: Tasks and responsibilities will be agreed upon, considering the volunteer’s time commitment and interests.
- “Yellow Card” (Safeguarding): This crucial document outlining safeguarding principles and procedures will be shared and discussed. This is a top priority for Scouts.
- Digital Systems: The volunteer’s details will be entered into the national membership system.
3. Essential Checks and Declarations:
- Criminal Record Check (PVG in Scotland): This is a mandatory and vital step to ensure the safety of young people. It must be started promptly (within 60 days in Scotland).
- References: The volunteer will be asked to provide references (not relatives) who can vouch for their character and suitability to work with young people. At least one referee should have known them for at least five years, and one should not be from within Scouting.
- Welcome Conversation: Within 30 days, the volunteer should have a formal “Welcome Conversation” with their Team Leader and another accredited volunteer. This is an opportunity to delve deeper into the Scout values, policies, and safeguarding procedures.
- Declaration: The volunteer will need to formally accept a declaration committing to upholding Scout values, policies, and completing required learning.
- Internal Check: UK Headquarters performs an internal check against their records.
4. Training and Development (Ongoing):
- Growing Roots Learning: This is mandatory learning covering safety and safeguarding, which must be completed within the first 30 days. Other parts of the “Growing Roots” learning are encouraged within 180 days.
- Scout Adult Training Scheme: Scouts have a comprehensive, flexible, and modular training scheme. This builds on existing skills and fills any gaps, ensuring volunteers are well-equipped for their roles. This training is nationally recognized.
- Ongoing Support: New volunteers are often assigned a “buddy” or mentor to support them through their initial period, helping them settle in and understand their role.
- Specialised Training: Depending on the role, volunteers may undertake specific training in areas like first aid, outdoor activities, leadership, event planning, and more.
5. Active Involvement and Support:
- Participation in Activities: The new volunteer will start actively participating in meetings, events, camps, and other activities with their section.
- Community and Team: They will become part of the supportive community of leaders and volunteers within the 6th East Kilbride Scout Group and the wider Scouting movement.
- Flexible Opportunities: The 6th East Kilbride group emphasizes flexible opportunities, acknowledging that volunteers have varying availability.
- Review and Feedback: Regular check-ins and review meetings (ideally around six months after joining) help ensure the volunteer is happy in their role and their contributions are valued.
Throughout the journey, the emphasis is on:
- Welcoming: Creating an inclusive and friendly environment.
- Supporting: Providing the necessary training, guidance, and mentorship.
- Valuing: Recognising and appreciating the time and effort volunteers contribute.
- Developing: Helping volunteers gain new skills and personal growth.
- Fun: Ensuring that volunteering with the 6th East Kilbride Scouts is an enjoyable and rewarding experience.
