Kent Scouts provides adventure to over 17,000 young people on a weekly basis. This is only possible due to our amazing team of over 6,000 adult volunteers.
Volunteering can take many forms from being an extra pair of hands at weekly meetings, to instructing adventurous activities or simply cutting the grass at your local campsite! We'll provide the training relevant to your role - and we're certain that whatever you're doing you'll meet new people and benefit from making a positive impact in your local community! What's more you can provide as much or as little time as you are able and willing to give.
Frequently asked questions
Why Volunteer?
There are many reasons for people choosing to help Kent Scouts including:
- It's fun!
- Helping the local community
- Using existing talents
- Encouraging the next generation
- Gaining new skills
- Enhancing career prospects
- Meeting new and interesting people
Who can volunteer?
Adults over the age of 18 (there is no upper age limit) with a commitment to the aims of Scouting can be volunteers. The Scout Association is a diverse organisation and welcomes members from all sections of the community.
What if I'm under 18?
Young people aged 14 to 18 can be helpers and leaders with our younger sections - Squirrels, Beavers, Cubs and Scouts. They become members of a Young Leaders' Unit, which is part of Explorer Scouting, where there is a Young Leaders' Scheme to support and train them.
Will I have to complete and application form or have an interview?
Volunteers are initially recruited using and informal interview to discuss which role would suit them best and the opportunities available. A simple appointment form needs to be completed and, as safety is our top priority, we ask all volunteers to allow us to complete checks to ensure there is no reason why they should not be involved in an organisation working directly with young people.
How much time is involved?
Our many volunteer opportunities vary in the amount of time commitment required, from occasional help to ongoing weekly involvement. We will do our best to find a role suited to your availability.
Do I have to wear a uniform?
We have both uniformed and non-uniformed roles available.
Do you pay expenses?
We pay out-of-pocket expenses and ask you to agree any expenses in advance with your section leader or Group Chair.
Where can I help?
Many of our volunteers help close to home but others prefer to near their workplace or at another location with which they have a connection. This can be discussed when considering your role.
What training is there?
A lot of your training will be 'on the job' and you will receive induction locally. There is also a modular training scheme to help people gain the knowledge they need. There are 4 modules called 'Getting Started' that everyone should attend. Other modules are taken according to your role and your previous experience. It is a flexible, volunteer-friendly system and it's free.
Will I be insured?
Scouting has the appropriate insurance for its members and the activities they organise, provided that volunteers comply with the organisation's rules. Please ask for more details.
How do I apply?
You can sign up online here.
What if I'm not sure what I'd like to do?
There is a lot of choice so the best thing to do is to talk it over with someone in Scouting in your local area or contact our office.
