AN APPEAL has been made for volunteers to help out at scout groups in Bromsgrove and Droitwich.
More than 1,000 people are already involved in Scouting in the two towns, including almost 300 adult volunteers but waiting lists for young people to join are at an all-time high.
There are 253 young people across Bromsgrove and Droitwich waiting to join despite the 295-strong band of volunteers – also at an all-time high.
An extra 43 young people joined in the 12 months up to January 31.
Scouting manager for the two towns Peter Dodman said: “Our adult volunteers today seek much more flexible volunteering arrangements than in the past, so that they can fit it around their busy lives.
“Many adults who are signing up with the Scouts have a limited amount of time to donate to us, and so we need more volunteers as a whole in order to accommodate the continued demand for Scouting among young people.
“I’m therefore calling on adults who want to make a difference to the lives of young people in their communities to give Scouting a go.”
He said he knew not having enough time was the main barrier to volunteering for adults which is why it was being made easier – offering flexibility in a range of roles – from Scout group leaders to administrative and trustee posts.
“Volunteering in Scouting no longer has to be an hour and a half every week, volunteering an evening a month or a few days a year can make a great difference to your local scout group.”
Training is free and participation looks good on CVs.
The Cub Scouts (eight to ten years) is the most popular Scouting section with 266 members across the 12 Cub packs in Bromsgrove and Droitwich.
Bethany a ten-year-old cub scout, said: “My Scout Leaders are great and I like having young leaders to.
“Cubs has taught me to be responsible for the younger members.
“I have enjoyed camping at Blackwell Adventure including climbing and the big swing and I love making camp fires.
“I am now looking forward to moving up to Scouts and the new adventures this will bring.”
Anyone interested in finding out more should visit www.scouts.org.uk/join
