December/January 2015
BRITISH ScoutingSCOUTING OVERSEAS Inspirational Groups around the world ADVENTURE FOR EVERYONE A trip abroad for all abilities 5 STUNNING SENSORY EXCURSIONS Visits for everyone to enjoy
How Scouting is making itself accessible to each and every person who wants to join
Join, share and get involved at Scouts Scouting Editors Scotland Lee Griffiths, Vicky Milnes and Kevin Yeates Scouting Scotland Editor Scouting for all Headquarters Addie Dinsmore With thanks to… BBC Countryfile Magazine, The experiences you can have through Scouting are amazing Alan Burnham, Jon Challicom, Caroline Gunning, and life-changing. And they should be available to every single Eddie James, Rebecca Lupton, Brook McAllister, Steve O’Brien, Phil Packer, Pippa, Filip Parulski, young person. Making sure there are no barriers to taking part Michael Randle, Kate Reid, Graham Rothery, in Scouting is something I am passionate about. In this issue, we Emma Saunders, Anna Scrivenger, Michael Shanks, Jenny Steven, Pete Stillman, Laura look at how Scouting really is open to all. Thorner, Roland Turner, Kerie Wallace, Anna Volunteers are doing incredible work to make sure that Weekes, Dan Woodhouse Cover Image Jon Challicom Scouting includes everyone. On page 24 we visit 1st Bournville, a The national magazine of The Scout Group that welcomes young people with additional needs, young Association ISSN 0036 – 9489 © 2015 The Scout Association carers and young people in care. The leaders work hard so that Registered Charity Numbers: SC038437 and 306101 (England and Wales) young people have the best possible experience of Scouting. There Published by The Scout Association, are so many Groups doing similar things, whether they meet in Gilwell Park, Chingford, London E4 7QW Tel: 0845 300 1818 Fax: 020 8433 7103 hospitals, schools or their local HQ. Email: [email protected] For example, a Group in Glasgow made an exciting Website: scouts.org.uk/magazine In association with international experience available to young people with Scouts Scotland, Registered Scottish Charity No. disabilities. On page 36 they tell us how they made it SC017511, affiliated to The Scout Association (UK). Scottish Scout HQ, Fordell Firs, happen and share their tips for Hillend, Dunfermline, Fife KY11 7HQ Tel: 01383 419073 making international trips Website: scouts.scot accessible. We also find
Please send all contributions to: out what it means to be [email protected] inclusive from inspiring Please note that the views expressed by members and contributors in the magazine are not necessarily those of volunteers all over the UK The Scout Association. on page 31. These include Scouting Scotland is produced by Immediate Media Branded a Group that’s ensuring Content, 9th Floor, Tower House, Scouting welcomes young Fairfax Street, Bristol BS1 3BN Editor Alex Drew people from the Polish Art Editor James Daniel Designer Dean Purnell community. Project Manager Celia Beale Volunteers and young Director of Immediate Media Branded Content Julie Williams people from all walks of life can get involved in ADVERTISING Advertising Manager Jamie Bolton Scouting and this makes us a Email: [email protected] fantastic, diverse Movement. Tel: 0117 314 7356 We might have diferences It is important to note the differing structures of UK Scouting in Scotland, England, Wales and Northern Ireland. but what we all share – and what brings However, for ease of reading this supplement refers to all us together – is our commitment to the variations of ‘County’-level groupings simply as County. greatest youth Movement on the planet. You can read Scouting magazine and Get Active! online at scouts.org.uk/magazine.
116,700 average UK circulation of Scouting (1 Jan–31 Dec 2013)
© Immediate Media Branded Content. Printed in the UK by William Gibbons. All rights reserved. Unauthorised reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without written permission. Every effort has been made to secure permission for copyright material. In the event of any material being used inadvertently, or where Bear Grylls it proved impossible to trace the copyright owner, acknowledgement will be made in a future issue. Chief Scout
PEFC/16-33-795 This magazine can be recycled, for We are proud to say Scouting is PEFC use in newspapers and packaging. certified. For more information go to Please remove any gifts, samples or pefc.co.uk. Promoting sustainable wrapping and dispose of it at your forest management. local collection point. Scouts Scotland Headquarters SCOUTING 3 The inclusion issue
Every issue we ask three readers to UP FRONT share their thoughts 9 News on the subjects we The latest Scout happenings cover. If you fancy Housekeeping joining our reader 15 panel for an issue, email More Compass developments [email protected]. 19 What’s on COVER uk to sign up. And keep an eye out Key dates for your 2015 diary STORY for our handy reader panel stamp 21 Mailbox throughout the magazine. 24 Your letters, emails, tweets, posts and pictures We asked our readers… How can leaders ensure that FEATURES their Groups are open to all? 24 ‘It’s about what you COVER THE KNOWLEDGE Graham Coulson, can do, not what STORY Specialist Adviser you can’t do’ Volunteer The Group Scout 47 Leader is the key. Good 1st Bournville are determined Michael Randle tells us personal support from that everyone should enjoy why being blind won’t a Group Scout Leader, the best of Scouting stop him Scouting coupled with quality 31 What does being inclusive 49 Advice training – both internal mean to you? and external – will lead to adults and leaders Your inclusion queries having a better understanding and less of UK Scouting volunteers share answered, plus this edition’s a ‘fear of the unknown’. It will make them their thoughts ‘big issue’ question more comfortable when working across the 36 Adventure for all 52 Health additional-needs spectrum. Find out how Glasgow Challenge stigma by Disabled Scouts planned Kay Hill, discussing mental health Specialist Adviser a trip to the Netherlands with your Group Have a whole group 43 Out there 54 Walk committed to it; think British Scouting Overseas A four-mile walk near Kirkby about the image you Stephen in Cumbria and five portray in publicity – if we only sell ourselves REGULARS sensory excursions you’ll love on action/adventure, 6 Wayne’s word 59 Food does this put off people with disabilities or This issue’s message from Try our camp canapés this those who think they might not be able to the UK Chief Commissioner party season afford to join in? 66 Last word 60 Games Scouting ambassador, Phil Sharn Race, More festive brain teasers Specialist Adviser Packer, tells us what inspires him than ever before! Through planning for inclusion and diversity. Look at who isn’t in the room and ask some simple questions when working up your development plans. Note down your answers and work them into your plan. If you don’t have the answers, don’t worry – there is a wealth of support available to help you develop open and inclusive DOWNLOAD THE Scouting. Contact the Information Centre or BLIPPAR APP TO THEN WHEN FILL YOUR BLIPP email [email protected]. YOUR SMARTPHONE YOU SEE THIS SCREEN WITH TO LIFE! OR TABLET SIGN… THE IMAGE…
4 SCOUTING December/January 2015
A youth-shaped Movement This issue, UK Chief Commissioner Wayne Bulpitt is even more excited than usual about the future model of Scouting
’m feeling excited – I know, I often am – but this is for an even bigger, better reason than usual. Over the past month or so I’ve begun to fully Iappreciate, even more than before, the unlimited potential of a Movement shaped by young people in partnership with adults. On page 9 you can learn about our amazing UK Youth Commissioner, Hannah Kentish, and her two deputies,
Jagz Bharth and Jay Thompson, Hannah Kentish, 21, selected from 105 applicants and has been appointed to The Scout Association’s from 19 shortlisted for interview. Just senior leadership team meeting these young adults, listening to their Scouting stories and ambitions is so inspiring and working with Hannah and her team for a short time ‘Our job is to IN THE DIARY gives me even greater confidence for Here’s where Wayne will the future. And yes, I appreciate there ofer guidance, be in the coming weeks… will be challenges as we test our own January 2015 comfort zones. but not with a 9 Northern Ireland awards Meanwhile, our Community Impact 9–10 UKCC Team meetings Group, which also had over 100 casting vote.’ 24 Operations Committee applications, has been meeting with 31 Activity Centres workshop the best from the 70 leading charities (and votes) being members under the that showed an interest in partnering age of 25, and the balance being those February 2015 1 with Scouting to deliver community of us with a few more years behind us. Romford District 7–8 impact projects across the UK. They’ve Our job is to offer guidance, advice and Youth Shaped Scouting conference managed to select six, but more about support as members of the groups, but 27/28 Merseyside County that another day. not with a golden or casting vote. What has made me particularly As we develop such models, just excited for our future are the processes imagine the potential locally to capture ASK WAYNE we followed. Both the UK Youth the energy and enthusiasm our young Wayne can answer your queries Commissioner search group and the people have to make a difference, at escouts.org.uk/forum (click on Community Impact Group are youth and how they value a little help and Forum, then Question Time). led, with over 75% of the membership support along the way.
6 SCOUTING December/January 2015
December/January 2015
The latest Scouting news and events
We want inclusion to be at the heart of Scottish Scouting EVERYONE’S WELCOME! A message from Scotland’s Commissioner for Inclusive Scouting
couting for all. Three easy you hold – to make your local Scouting words – and an ambition we accessible to more young people and are all aiming for. But how do adult volunteers. we make it a reality? How can When you read this issue take one Seach of us make Scouting not just open thing if nothing else from it – ask us for to all, but welcoming to all and truly help! There is a wealth of experience inclusive of all the communities that and knowledge local to you, or you make up Scotland? can contact SHQ directly for support SCOUTS ON FILM This issue is full of examples of in dealing with challenging behaviour, We have created a short film called inclusion in practice. It’s designed to faiths and beliefs, special diets, sexual Are You Game? A Volunteering Legacy, show what is possible when we open orientation, special needs grants and which celebrates the contribution our minds and think about Scouting much more. that Scout volunteers made to the Commonwealth Games, and the wide differently – being flexible in our Let’s keep making Scouting range of volunteering opportunities that approach to volunteering and to what a welcoming place for everyone are available in Scouting. Scouting ‘looks like’. who lives in Scotland. The film can be used by Groups for Whether it’s Scouting in hospitals Michael Shanks promotion and recruitment – it’s or prisons or for young people with SHQ Commissioner available for download from for Inclusive Scouting scouts.scot/news/are-you-game disabilities, we can be proud of what we are doing in Scotland. But Read about Michael’s trip Or you can Blipp here to watch underlying all of these great projects is to the Netherlands with his Are You Game? on your Group, Glasgow Disabled smartphone right now a need to support you – whatever role Scouts, on page 36.
Scouts Scotland Headquarters SCOUTING 9
UPFRONT INTERVIEW ‘I feel immensely privileged…’ We asked Scouts to send in the questions they’d like to ask our new Honorary President, Chris Tiso
Ewan: ‘Where have your I am unable to indoors or and still am, both flattered Chris: I plan to work hard adventures taken you?’ even in built-up areas. I feel and honoured. I would not to use every available Chris: My interest in visiting I am more in touch with have agreed had I not been opportunity to raise the new regions combined with myself and at my best in confident that I would be profile of Scouts Scotland, my love of wild places has the outdoors. It’s where I able to help Scottish Scouts what they do and why. led me to explore many am happiest. for many years to come. I also hope that I may be different countries including able to encourage more several of the most remote Sean S: ‘How does it feel to Gemma: ‘What would young people who may not islands and mountains. be part of Scouting?’ you like to achieve as have previously heard or Probably my biggest Chris: Despite not having Honorary President?’ thought about the Scouts adventures so far have been been a Scout, I feel to get involved. Personally climbing Mount Everest, immensely privileged to I hope over the coming sailing to Arctic Greenland have been asked to be months and years to meet and Svalbard, and leading part of such a remarkable as many of you as I can! an expedition from South Movement and hugely America to Antarctica and proud to be part of Scouts Sean W: ‘What advice South Georgia, where we Scotland. I have always would you give someone attempted unclimbed peaks, respected and identified before they go on their dived on unexplored wrecks with what the Scouts stand first big adventure?’ and visited Elephant Island. for. I am very excited about Chris: Be prepared my new role and I hope to and enjoy it. Molly: ‘What has been do you proud. your best expedition?’ Chris: If I had to single out a Sean S: ‘What made favourite it wouldn’t be one you want to join of the high-profile trips but Scouting?’ my most recent adventure Chris: I was with my nine-year-old son, approached which saw us climb Ben by a friend Nevis together camping of mine halfway in a beautiful spot who had next to a small loch. It’s less been closely about where you are and involved more about who you’re with. with the Scouts for Molly: ‘What do you get most of from the great outdoors?’ his life. He Chris: Beyond the obvious asked me if physical benefits (I enjoy I would be exercise!) I feel happier and willing to be calmer. I relax in a way that involved. I was,
Scouts Scotland Headquarters SCOUTING 11
UPFRONT
The volunteers at Glasgow 77th Scout Group were delighted to receive the award REAL HEROES The winners of Royal Bank of right) are part of a team of over evening. We felt very special, and it Scotland’s ‘Finding Scotland’s Real 60 young people who volunteer was so nice to be recognised by the Heroes’ Awards have been selected as carers for Scouts with physical judging panel for what we do.’ and we’re delighted to announce that disabilities and life-limiting Andrew, who volunteers with the public voted Glasgow 77th Scout conditions at the 77th Scout Group. the 77th’s Scout Network for young Group as the winners! The group attended the STV adults with disabilities added: The award pays tribute to people award ceremony, which was ‘It was an enormous privilege to go in Scotland who work hard to broadcast across the whole of along. We get a huge amount out improve their communities. Scotland, to receive their prize. of working with young people – they Mairi and Andrew (pictured on the Mairi said, ‘It was an amazing are our inspiration.’ HOSPITAL SCOUTING There has been Scouting Scouting heritage that has they meet like an everyday Projects like this highlight in hospitals for almost recently been revived. Scout Group, but for those that Scouting is for all and 100 years and the Yorkhill This Group involves who can’t leave the ward, that engaging with a group Hospital Scout Group, in young people who think Scouting comes to them! of otherwise hard-to-reach the Royal Hospital for Sick Scouting isn’t for them – The programme is a young people, who can go Children, Glasgow, is just either because of their health mix of the usual and the back and join their local one example of this type of or disability, or because inventive, for example Group, has great value. they just haven’t had the building the biggest bridge For a group of young opportunity possible between hospital people who spend all day to take part beds out of paper cups! in hospital without much before. The It also requires flexibility, to do, the chance to try Group offers designing a programme to something completely activities suit young people with a different, unexpected, each week; for range of abilities without entertaining and meaningful those who can knowing who is going to turn is an important part of what leave the ward, up each week. Scouting is about.
Scouts Scotland Headquarters SCOUTING 13
UPFRONT
Brand updates and the latest Compass progress COMPASS IS LIVE Compass is now live and all members of Scouting in the UK with an email address will have received an email invitation to register and set up personal log-in details for the system
If you have not yet set up a new Youth members and Scouting tasks and administration. username and password for Compass, their parents Visit scouts.org.uk/compass to view register now and check all your Counties/Areas/Regions (Scotland) user guides, ask questions via the details are correct. You will need your have been arranging local plans user forum and watch the Compass membership number and the email for getting all youth information video (also featured below), which address we hold for you, as well as a onto Compass. There are template provides more information about what few other personal details in order to spreadsheets provided for you to enter Compass can help you do. If you have complete your registration. your youth information into, which any questions and queries you can You can find your membership means you can upload them onto contact your local Compass champions number on your appointment Compass in one go. All young people (their details can be found on the card (we also remind you of this need to be on Compass by the time ‘About’ page of scouts.org.uk/compass) in your registration email invitation), we run the 2015 census from Compass. or contact the Scout Information or you can ask your local managers/ Speak to your Compass Champion Centre ([email protected] or appointment secretary to help you. or local Commissioner if you are 020 8433 7100/0845 300 1818). Your log-in details used for the unsure what is happening locally and old membership system will no want to find out more about getting longer work. your young people on Compass. Register now by heading to the New to Compass? Members area of scouts.org.uk and Support for using Compass Blipp here to watch click on the Compass button in the We hope many of you have already a handy video. top right corner. been using Compass to manage your
Your questions answered How do I get to the log-in/ Why do I need to use Compass? District, County/Area/Region and registration page for Compass? nationally to look at trends, and to Q Q identify areas for development. It has To access the log-in/registration Policy, Organisation and Rules been developed to make Scout admin page for Compass, please go requires that all member data easier to manage. It has also been onlineA to scouts.org.uk and click on the mustA be stored on Compass. It will developed to help you keep your Scout Members Area button and follow the enable the annual census to be records and data safe, and is compliant instructions printed there. undertaken and can be used by Group, with the Data Protection Act.
The Scout Association SCOUTING 15 Introducing the family
Now’s an exciting time to be in Scouting Stack UK Scouting palette Logos The second position, suitable for smaller/ Linear-small social media icon usage, is a stack, with a The section logos belongs to the section members. They were developed with young people and are used to larger fleur de lis over the logotype. show their ownership and pride in their activities, events and resources. These logos should be usedThis large variation and features a filled-in fleur-de- bold where possible. A number of logo versions are available for each section. lis and is to be used only in exceptional The exclusions zones should equal the PANTONE width of the band. The minimum usage circumstances due to limited space. size for this version is 26.7mm high x C0 M0 Y0 K0 Linear The exclusions zones should equal the 23mm wide. Process Black C – we’re growing, becoming more youth- height of the fleur. The minimum usage R255 G255 B255
The one-colour fleur de lis is the primary logo: size for this version is 2.8mm high x C0 M0 Y0 K100 There are two possible positions of the fleur de lis in relation to the logotype. The primary is 7.8mm wide. HTML FFFFFF at the end of the word (endorsing it like a TM mark, as show below). R0 G0 B0 7.2mm THREAD white The relationship between logotype and fleur de lis must not be altered. Exclusions zones HTML 000000 around logos2. should equal the height of the fleur. The fleur de lis minimum usage size 2.8mm
7.2mm 26.7mm is 7.2mm THREAD black shaped and more visible in our local 7.8mm
23mm
When used on a coloured background, and there should be good contrast as communities. Now we’re capturing this shown below:
PANTONE 116 C C0 M23 Y100 K0 R255 G205 B0 PANTONE 151 C excitement and youthful spirit in our C0 M60 Y100 K0 xxxxxxxx HTML FFCD00 PANTONE 200 C THREAD YHG287 R255 G130 B0 HTML FF8200 C3 M100 Y70 K12 PANTONE 7594C xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx THREAD YHG275 R186 G12 B47 HTML BA0C2F C0 M67 Y70 K60 refreshed section brands THREAD YHG127 R124 G58 B45 x xxxxxxx HTML 7C3A2D THREAD YJB706 xx xxxxxxxxxxxx
x xxxxxxx PANTONE 253 C In early 2015 we will be launching C42 M91 Y0 K0 xxxxxxxxxxxxxx R173 G26 B172 PANTONE 2597 C HTML AD1AAC C80 M99 Y0 K0 THREAD YHG165 R77 G33 B119 a revised programme and new suite xx xxxxx HTML 4D2177 THREAD YHG4105
of resources to support it. At the Meet the family xxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx same time, we will launch refreshed x xxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxx PANTONE 293 C and revised brands for the five youth Check out C100 M69 Y0 K4 R0 G61 B165 PANTONE 295 C HTML 003DA5 C100 M69 Y8 K54 PANTONE 639 C our new- THREAD PMS293C R0 G40 B85 sections (pictured right). HTML 002855 C99 M1 Y5 K5 THREAD YJB316 R0 G149 B200 HTML 0095C8 look section THREAD YHG304 Why the changes? brands In March 2013 we spoke with 1,200 volunteers and 500 young people There is no fixed date for the current about their section brands. In both section brands to be phased out; the Beaver and Cub sections 70% materials should only be updated when liked their section branding, while the they naturally come up for renewal, majority also said they needed ‘some but we hope you will be inspired by the tweaking’. Meanwhile the majority revised brands and want to use them. of Scout leaders said they disliked There are no major changes to The their brand and thought it needed a Scout Association’s corporate brand, ‘major rethink’. In the Explorer section, but a small refresh of the guidelines opinion was more diverse, although will also be available from January. 75% of those who responded asked for ‘some change.’ OUR NEW SECTION The new approach colour. We also liked the fleur-de-lis BRANDS ARE Where brands were liked, we have not as it is the one overriding symbol of • More recognisable as a family changed them significantly. Where Scouting that is recognised worldwide of brands there was a clear call for a rethink, we and joins each of the sections together.’ • Easier to reproduce both have responded with a fresh approach. digitally and in print The brands were developed and tested Using the new brands • More flexible and easily closely with young people themselves. Advice, artwork files and templates will personalised ‘All of our Scouts liked the green for be available on the Scout Brand and • Shaped by young people the new section logo,’ said Giles Page, a Print Centre from January. Visit scouts. themselves Scout Leader, ‘as that is our traditional org.uk/brand to get started.
16 SCOUTING The Scout Association
UPFRONT
Dates for your 2015 diary
January JAN JAN JAN 9-11 16-18 25 Wintercamp Brass Monkey Camp Burns’ Night This exhilarating weekend at Brass Monkey 2015 is an Teach your Scouts about Gilwell Park and Hawkhirst extreme winter camp held legendary ‘bard’ Robert Activity Centres will see at Fordell Firs National Burns, his poetry and his Guides, Rangers, Scouts Activity Centre, packed contribution to Scottish and Explorer Scouts trying with a variety of fun and culture. Share his most their hands at a range of adventurous activities. famous piece, Auld amazing activities. Head Email warden@ Lang Syne, and ask to wintercamp.org.uk for fordellfirs.org.uk for them to pen their more information. further info. own poems.
FEB FEB FEB February 14 17 19 Valentine’s Day Shrove Tuesday Chinese New Year Celebrate this romantic Many Christians observe this Also known as the holiday by day as the last day before Lent, Spring Festival or making cards but everyone can use today as the Lunar New Year, with your an opportunity to celebrate a encourage your Group Group. And why love of pancakes! Whether you to find out more about not reinstate the like them thin or fat, sweet or this Chinese holiday Scout Post for savoury, break out your frying with the activities at this special day? pan and give them a go. scouts.org.uk/pol.
21-22 FEB FEB 22 Scouts Speak Up Founder’s Day Scotland Happy birthday, B-P! If the father of This course gives Scotland’s Scouting were still alive today, he’d Explorer Scouts media be a whopping 158 years old! and public-speaking Celebrate this special day by skills so they can act as reflecting on the origins of Scouting spokespeople for the and what our Movement brings organisation. Email shq@ to the world. Tweet your scouts.scot for more info. messages using #myscouthero.
Further ahead Endurance 80 International Women’s Day Camp Craft Practical 7–8 March 8 March Skills course Fancy embarking on a 50-mile hike? Get involved in raising awareness 18/19 April and 9/10 May How about doing it across the about women’s rights and Chilterns in just 24 hours? gender inequality around Network members and adults can Explorers, Scout Network the world. Pay a visit to master useful camp skills on this and adult volunteers are internationalwomens great course at Woodhouse Park eligible to take part in day.com for events, SAC on 18/19 April and Downe the ultimate extreme resources and SAC on 9/10 May. To book your stroll. Find out more at International place, send an email to endurance80.org.uk. Women’s Day news. [email protected]. Picture: Thinkstock Picture:
The Scout Association SCOUTING 19
SCOUTING SCOUTING The Scout Association Scout The 21
Bike Ride and Fun Run on 14 September. September. 14 on Run Fun and Ride Bike what, matter No back. go wouldn’t I
Le Tour de Lancs Community Fun Day, Day, Fun Community Lancs de Tour Le thinking baby a have to left I years.
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Claire Rothwell: Rothwell: Claire Natalie Weatherstone: Weatherstone: Natalie
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#superproud of all our young young our all of home! My advice when heading off to to off heading when advice My home!
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part is I’m still in contact with them them with contact in still I’m is part
friends young and old and the best best the and old and young friends called a Scout Movement. Scout a called
adventure with them. Made great great Made them. with adventure promote gender equality cannot be be cannot equality gender promote
to four fantastic years of fun and and fun of years fantastic four to inclusive and does not actively actively not does and inclusive
very welcoming, supportive and it led led it and supportive welcoming, very abilities. A Movement that is not not is that Movement A abilities.
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receiving their their receiving
as returned I’ve later, years six nearly feminism is inextricably linked to to linked inextricably is feminism
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3rd Washington Washington 3rd I always thought of Scouting. Now, Now, Scouting. of thought always I I believe that my my that believe I Majo Rivas Vera: Vera: Rivas Majo
#colourrun #iscout @wsjni_2015 #iscout #colourrun
Great weekend with Co. Down Explorers Down Co. with weekend Great
Peter Wilson @altruisticjack: Wilson Peter
With flying colours flying With
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see loads more of your your of more loads see
Point Blippar here to to here Blippar Point
Scouting magazine, Gilwell Park, Chingford, London E4 7QW E4 London Chingford, Park, Gilwell magazine, Scouting [email protected] | Write to: to: Write | Email: box
scouts.org.uk/TV scouts.org.uk/facebook @UKScouting mail | | December/January 2015 December/January UPFRONT
Sarah Snell-Pym: I saw your recent call out on Twitter asking what inclusivity means to Scouting OVER members and this is what it means to me: HEARD The funny things Scouts say Inclusivity is not judging It is finding a way ‘Where do all the lost scarves go?’ Sharing and caring Jack Abrey About the adventure Le Tour de Lancs ‘Will my torch still work if the Community Fun Knowing that no one Day, Bike Ride and generator is switched of?’ Fun Run in Is left behind Lel Watson full swing It is experiences made A hand extended ‘Does chocolate milk come from Calling to those ignored brown cows?’ Opening doors that have been David Powell Approximately 100 people took part Locked too long ‘What would happen if I brushed in the four bike rides (15km, 9km and Seeing how hope can build my teeth continuously for 60 2 x 5km) and fun run on the day, with Self esteem minutes?’ many more enjoying the fun day with In you, me, us and them Daniel Mercer bouncy castles, bouncy boxing, archery It is seeing that there is only and various stalls. The total raised A ‘we’ by the event is currently £1,700, but Giving back Tweet us using we are expecting more to come in. A thousand fold #overheardscouts, Money raised from the event is to be It is what should always get in touch via split three ways, with a third going to Have been Facebook or email fund a defibrillator for the community For everyone to tell us what of Clayton le Moors, a third to Derian A Builder of bridges you’ve overheard. House Children’s Hospice and a third to Cementing those dreams All Saints Scout Group. Inclusivity Includes
KNOTS AND PROJECT: FIRELIGHTING A-FRAME SHELTER TIPS AND TRI LASHINGS As you’d expect, an A-frame shelter resembles a letter ‘A’ when viewed end-on. It’s Picking up firelighting skills is much like learning magic –CK what initiallyS seems quite Whether you’re climbing, pioneering or angling, knots and lashings form an essential one of the most popular and versatile kinds of emergency shelter as it can be built mysterious is revealed to be quite straightforward. Learn some of these tricks and you part of your outdoor knowledge. Practise in your spare time and you’ll soon know the relatively quickly, can be built to any size, and is quite sturdy if constructed properly. will always stay warm in the Great Outdoors. diference between a bend and a bight . Difculty Total time Allow 1 hour + Rope terminology How to make fire out of water You won’t need to be told that a piece of rope has two ends! If you really want to impress, how about making fire from However, in order to work with ropes it’s useful to understand water? This takes a lot of practice and patience but it Fuzz stick Before you begin work on your A-frame, check that the terminology used to describe their different parts. does work. the site is suitable – for example, don’t build it near an Put a sheet of cling film in a mug. Half fill the mug and Choose a dry stick animal trail or ants’ nest. Check that there aren’t any Working end gently lift the cling film, wrapped around the water, to form around 2–3cm in UÊ dead branches above you. Think about where the sun The end of the rope a water crystal ball. Under bright sunlight hold this crystal ball diameter. Now, using rises and sets and the direction of the prevailing wind you’re using to tie a knot. over your dark-coloured tinder, moving it up and down like your knife, slice down – you can judge the terrain and surrounding flora to a lens until you beam a bright dot of light on to the tinder. the stick’s sides making help avoid an exposed position. Avoid lower ground Standing part Any part Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes. sure that they remain UÊ between two high points, as cold air can collect in such between the two ends. attached. The idea places and rain run-off may be a problem. How to make fire from ice is that the these thin Spend time selecting and gathering your materials Standing end Break a reasonably thick piece of ice from a river or stream shavings are easier to UÊ first, so that you can then concentrate on building your The opposite end of (up to 6cm depth is ideal). Carefully, using a knife or saw, light than the main shelter in one sustained session. To a certain Knots a rope to that being scrape away any dirt or imperfections and begin to form it stick. If you create a extent you can improvise the foliage People have been tying knots for thousands of years, and used to tie the knot. into a circle. Use the heat from your bare hands to help melt number of fuzz sticks depending on what you find despite modern technology they remain as vital as ever today. the ice into a disc, turning it to prevent your hands from and place them in on the forest floor. In sports such as sailing, climbing, caving and angling, and UÊ « A loop made J^[7# surgery, the ability to tie the right knot is essential. rope back on itself [l[hom^[h["XkjZed¼j\eh][jtinder (crumbled, dried leaves for example). Angle the ice your fire. All knots have a purpose, and it’s just as important to so that the sun forms a small circle on the tinder. The tinder STAR LETTER and crossing the oekh]hekdZi^[[j understand what that purpose is, and when the knot should standing part. should light in dramatic fashion – so stand well back! be used, as it is to be able to tie it. Using the wrong knot at How to make fire from a drinks can the wrong time can be dangerous. UÊ Bight A loop made After you’ve drained the last dregs of your fizzy pop, don’t by turning the throw away the can (you should recycle it anyway) – the How ropes are measured rope back on itself base can be used as a parabolic mirror to train sunlight on Ropes are normally measured by their circumference. For without crossing the your fuel source. example, a 75mm rope is approximately 25mm in diameter. standing part. The first thing you need to do is increase the reflective surface by rubbing the base of the can for a few minutes Beaver Hanking a rope UÊ Bend A knot with steel wool (toothpaste works too). Keep polishing until Hanking your rope prevents it from getting knotted while in used for tying you can see your face in the base. storage. Wrap the rope around your thumb and little finger one rope to Now hold up the bottom of the can towards the sun. On in a figure of eight. Now, holding the roped bundle together, another. the end of a small piece of wood, place a tiny bit of bone remove with your other hand and wind the free length firstly dry dark-coloured tinder. Given enough sunlight, the tinder over itself, and then back down the length. Pull the short UÊ Hitch A means of will begin to smoke. You’ll need to experiment moving the free end to find the loop that draws in. Form a loop with the fastening a rope to end of the stick closer to and further from the can to get standing end through, pulling it firmly. The hank another object – such the optimum heat from the sun, but about 5cm distance is in training should now as a post, spar, pole considered best. be tight. To or log – without Alternatively, take your torch apart and use the reflector. free the whole using a full knot. Remove the bulb and poke the tinder through the hole rope, pull on both ends. where the bulb was. OUTD ANUAL OOR ADVENTURE MA You are never too young OUTDOOR ADVENTURE M NUAL to Scout. These pictures are of our six-week- WRITE old daughter, Amelia, modelling the ‘Beaver in IN TO training’ hoodie and a WIN special dress made by one Our STAR of my Beaver parents at LETTER writer 56th Upton to match our wins a copy of neckerchief. She also has the Outdoor Adventure Manual: a special necker that has Essential Scouting Skills for the been adapted to fit her. Great Outdoors. Available from Claire Baxter scouts.org.uk/shop at a special price of £14 (RRP £21.99). 22 SCOUTING December/January 2015 The leaders at 1st Bournville are determined that young people and adults of all abilities can enjoy the best of Scouting Pictures: Jon Challicom Jon Pictures: WORDS: VICKY MILNES 24 SCOUTING December/January 2015 REAL TROOPERS 1ST BOURNVILLE Members: 40 Beavers, 24 Cubs, 35 Scouts, 20 Explorers, 14 leaders, 2 Section Assistants and 1 Group Do you struggle to read? Scout Leader. Or know someone that does? Blipp here or Did you know? visit soundcloud.com/ukscouts to listen to The Group an audio version of the feature. celebrated its centenary in 2013. The Scout Association SCOUTING 25 REAL TROOPERS 1st Bournville makes Scouting possible for young people of all abilities oming to Beavers has but at Beavers she’s got used to accommodated her. They’ve taken made an amazing socialising and has made some really on board everything I explained diference to Chloe,’ says good friends,’ says Lisa. about her background. They’ve made her carer and special Chloe now loves hiking, camping adaptations to activities so she can guardian, Lisa. Chloe, and rock climbing. She took part in take part – absolutely nothing is too 7,C had a traumatic start in life and lots of adventurous activities at the much trouble for them.’ has emotional, psychological and Group’s weekend camp in Walsall, behavioural difculties. The benefits with Lisa coming along to provide Unique opportunities of Scouting at 1st Bournville, near support for her. At the heart of 1st Bournville is Birmingham, have been huge for Chloe’s positive experiences are a commitment to inclusion. The her: ‘Before coming to Beavers, Chloe down to the Group’s welcoming Group welcomes young people and found it hard to trust adults. She’s ethos. Lisa recalls how the leaders leaders with a range of additional learnt to feel safe around adults responded when Chloe joined just needs and none. Group Scout Leader here. She used to have problems over a year ago: ‘She was still in Ruth Tanner explains: ‘I believe that interacting with other children, nappies at the age of six but they Scouting is for all. My own three children have additional needs so over the years I’ve had to find information and support. It’s been a learning curve, but it’s so important that Scouting includes everyone. For a lot of young people with additional needs, this is the only social group they have access to. They get the opportunity to try activities they wouldn’t elsewhere, and Group camp is a great chance for them to do this.’ Ruth and the leaders make it work in a number of ways. With the County’s support, they have developed a buddy scheme. This is when a leader is assigned to support 26 SCOUTING December/January 2015 REAL TROOPERS Meet 1st Bournville’s Explorer Scouts by Blipping here. ‘People are really friendly and everybody just accepts people for who they are.’ MARTHA, EXPLORER SCOUT a young person with additional buddy to an 11-year-old Scout with needs and help them with activities. Asperger syndrome: ‘He was really At camp, the Group’s leaders worked struggling with socialising and with the activity centre staf to playing games. We built a bond support the young people from over our shared interests in sci-fi. all sections to try climbing and If the activities got too much for kayaking. The Group also has a him, we’d take a break and have their peers with additional needs. special approach for when the young a chat about Star Wars. When he Ruth talks about a Cub with Down’s people move between sections. Ruth moved up to Explorers, I went to syndrome, who attended the Group explains: ‘If they have additional his first meeting to see how he was a couple of years ago: ‘The other needs they might not be ready to getting on. He’d settled in perfectly children didn’t bat an eyelid, because move sections at the usual age. and I was a bit sad that I wasn’t they were so used to children with We make the transition smoother needed any more!’ additional needs. They all learnt to by letting them spend time in their The leaders are clearly inspired by sign their promise in Makaton. They own section and the one above. Their Ruth’s approach, as Mary explains: did that every week so that he could buddy will support them through ‘Ruth is the driving force in making join in and feel part of the Group.’ this and they will move up to the 1st Bournville what it is. She’s Similarly, at the Group camp, the next section when they’re ready.’ passionate about accepting everyone young people were keen to help each into the Group and she encourages us other tackle the activities. There was Accepting everyone to do the same.’ a warm, welcoming atmosphere Mary is a leader in the Beaver and It’s this dedication that has with everyone encouraged to join in, Scout sections. When she first joined resulted in the Group’s young people whatever their age or ability. Parents the Group six years ago, she was a learning to accept and welcome of the Beaver Scouts later praised The Scout Association SCOUTING 27 1st Bournville ofers a fully supportive Blipp here to see environment so that behind the scenes all their Scouts can at 1st Bournville. achieve their goals a lot of support out there. ‘Don’t be scared and don’t be worried,’ Ruth ‘They don’t let additional needs says. ‘Parents are a good source of information. UKHQ can provide stop a young person from taking support and signpost organisations. Open up Scouting to as many young part and achieving.’ people as you can!’ For Ruth, and all the young people and adult SHIRLEY, SCOUT MUM volunteers at 1st Bournville, this is the Explorer Scouts for helping their Strong support just the way Scouting should be. children to take part at camp. As a truly inclusive Group, 1st Martha, 16, is an Explorer Scout Bournville also has leaders with with epilepsy. She takes a break from additional needs. Young Leader More info an energetic game to explain how Ben, 17, has found that the Group is Check out scouts.org.uk/ 1st Bournville has made an impact very welcoming: ‘I have dyspraxia diversity for details on how on her: ‘The leaders make sure I can so in a noisy environment I might to support young people do as many things as possible, like not hear certain things. Sometimes with additional needs. There climbing and water sports. People are instructions need repeating. So if is information on a range of really friendly and everybody just we’re doing a high ropes exercise, conditions in the additional needs accepts people for who they are.’ they will show me how to do it, then directory. Contact the Diversity Holly is a 12-year-old Scout with a they show the others and if I need and Inclusion team at UKHQ for visual impairment. She has had an more prompting they will show me guidance at diversity.inclusion@ equally positive experience with the again. There’s always someone on scouts.org.uk. Find out more Group: ‘They really support me here. hand to help out.’ Ruth explains how about the language programme If we’re doing map skills, a leader she will be soon working with a Cub Makaton at scouts.org.uk/ will come and help me read the map Section Assistant who has additional makaton. There are grants and use the compass so I don’t feel needs: ‘We’ll make sure that he’s able available towards the cost of excluded.’ Her mum Shirley agrees: to use his talents but we’ll support equipment to support members ‘Here it’s about what you can do, not the areas where he needs extra help.’ with additional needs to access what you can’t do. They don’t let It can be a challenge to include Scouting. Contact dgb@scouts. additional needs stop a young person young people and adult volunteers org.uk for more information. from taking part and achieving.’ with additional needs, but there is 28 SCOUTING December/January 2015 Badge Go on a Farm to Fork Trail Tesco is helping Scouts learn all about food with its fun and free excursions Suitable for Beavers and Cubs+ Tesco launched its Farm to Fork trails for Beavers and Cubs in the last issue of Scouting magazine. Since then we’ve seen hundreds of Groups sign up for their chance to secure a slot next year. Trails are available from January and are free and fun, as well as being an exciting way to learn about where food comes from. There are lots of things to do on the trail, including tasting new cheeses, smelling new fish and going behind the scenes to feel the chill of the freezers. It’s guaranteed to be an exciting session away from the meeting place. All Tesco Extras and Superstores are supporting the initiative that has already seen hundreds of thousands of school children take part in a Farm to Fork Trail. Together we have now tailored the experience to Scouting, so make sure you get online and contact your local store to arrange a visit. More info Tesco is also offering the Farm to Fork Badge for Beavers and Cubs that get involved. To find out more visit scouts.org.uk/eathappyproject. 30 SCOUTING December/January 2015 Scouting for all Dyslexia-friendly font What does being inclusive mean to you? We spoke to volunteers all over the UK about how we are ensuring Scouting is available to all and how we can be even better at being a fully-inclusive Movement Do you struggle to read? Or know someone that does? Blipp here or visit soundcloud.com/ukscouts to listen to an audio version of the feature. 31 Watch a video Blipp here to see Ridgewood Scout Group in action. ‘It’s about bringing everyone together’ Kate Reid, Regional as part of the Youth United how much they benefit from Development Officer for the project. We decided it would it. We have a responsibility to North West, tells us about be a good idea to test this in open our doors and make sure making sure Scouting is a school – we piloted a Group Scouting is for everybody. available for all young people, as part of their enrichment ‘There are 150–200 children no matter what their abilities. programme, which is about in the school and we’ve ‘Ridgewood Scout Group providing opportunities within set up a Scout Troop of 17. was set up in an additional the curriculum that will They don’t wear traditional needs high school in Burnley help with their studies, but uniform – they wear T-shirts aren’t necessarily a and neckers. They have all traditional form of been properly invested and learning – Scouting are working towards various fulfils this. badges. The school is up for ‘To see young trying anything; you have people from all children in wheelchairs, young backgrounds get people who can’t speak, and involved and have the children with behavioural chance to Scout is difficulties – they just get on amazing. You can see with it. Scouting for all Photos of Ridgewood Scout Group by Rebecca Lupton ‘Making sure Scouting is available to all’ Jenny Steven, Regional ‘This project is about Commissioner for integration; we’ve already Highlands and Islands, attached some of the children helped bring the to a local Group and they Isle of Muck go along for the occasional adventure to isolated afternoon or to camp. Initially communities. we set up a separate Group, ‘There are only six children on the Isle but we also wanted to bring everyone together, which I of Muck and five of them are now in think is what being inclusive is the Movement, but there are certainly all about. It’s one of the most challenges in bringing Scouting to such rewarding projects I’ve been involved in. a remote location. Up until last year ‘My advice would be don’t be they didn’t have mains electricity and afraid of trying new projects like this. Find the right people money is scarce as the only income is to help. Give it a go – if it tourism. But it’s crucial to make sure doesn’t work, it doesn’t work, that Scouting is available to all.’ but at least 33 ‘Being inclusive is making sure that Scouting is accessible to all, ensuring that both the young people and adults within a Group have an understanding that ‘it is okay to be different’. It is also about creating opportunities for fun, challenge and excitement in a safe and open environment where everyone is valued for who they are and the skills they bring.’ ‘Being as Graham Coulson, Specialist Adviser diverse ‘I’m a Beaver leader and I try and make my programme as flexible as possible so that boys and girls, the confident as our and not so, and the few I have with learning difficulties can all achieve the same badges so no-one is left out. communities’ I also encourage parents to talk to me as much as possible.’ Graham Rothery, District Amy O’Keefe Comissioner for Burton-upon-Trent, helped Scouts meet the needs of Accessible design This feature takes into account the local Polish community. the visual stress experienced ‘A community of Polish and by some dyslexic people and Latvian families has grown in our attempts to facilitate ease of reading by… area and there are now Polish • Using dark-coloured text on a young people that want to be light (not white) background. part of Scouting, but there are • Avoiding white backgrounds for paper, computer and visual aids. challenges. We had 18 young White can appear too dazzling. Use people that didn’t speak English; cream or a soft pastel colour. Some one bilingual Scout had to dyslexic people will have their own colour preference. translate as there weren’t Polish- • Font size should be 12–14 point. speaking adults in the Group. • Avoiding text in block capitals. We’d like adults from the Polish • Using left-justified with ragged right edge. community to help us run the • Avoiding green and red/pink Programme, rather than just bridge as these are difficult for the language barrier. The reality colour-blind individuals. • Using a dyslexia-friendly font. You is we are the community and the can download this font free from community is us.’ opendyslexic.org. 34 Scouting for all ‘Helping all Scouts feel ‘Ensuring the same’ anyone can Kerie Wallace, District Commissioner, New Forest North District Scouts, ensured one of his Explorers achieved the participate’ Chief Scout’s Award despite being in a wheelchair. Pippa, a Scout Network ‘Joe was born with Congenital Talipes, which means he member tells us how can occasionally function out of a wheelchair, but it’s very Scouting helped her coming- painful. He’s been in and out of hospital all his life and has out experience. had about 20 operations. ‘I've been a part of the ‘He’s come up through all the sections, taking part in as Scout Movement since I many activities as possible, but there have been occasions was 14 and openly bisexual when we’ve faced difficulties. The same applied to his Chief within Scouting since I was Scout’s Expedition – it seemed unlikely it would actually 16. Being inclusive means happen – but this time it did. that anyone can participate ‘Despite some unexpected environmental challenges, regardless of where they Joe completed the Chief Scout’s Award with the rest of his grew up, the colour of their Group and he was over the moon. You’ve got to think beyond skin or their sexuality or what you normally do. You need to make all Scouts feel like gender identity; they are they’re the same as others in the Group – they’re just like welcome without judgement everyone else.’ or question. ‘My experience with ‘Inclusive Scouting means that Scouting has been so positive that I can't imagine everyone has the opportunity to join it being better. I think when in no matter what their difference I was younger it would may be. It means that we need to have been nice to know about FLAGS (Fellowship understand what our responsibilities of Lesbians and Gays in are in creating open and Scouting) and maybe inclusive Scouting. It means even have something that helps younger people that we have an organisation within Scouting.’ that meets the needs of all individuals and that every More info person is valued.’ Let us know what Sharn Race, being inclusive means to you and your Group Specialist Adviser by commenting on our Facebook page. 35 Pictures: Frank Murray 36 SCOUTING INTERNATIONAL SCOUTING an audio version of the feature. visit Or know someone that does? Blipp here or youDo to readstruggle soundcloud.com/ukscouts to listen to to listen to ? December/January 2015 ADVENTURE FOR ALL Michael Shanks, Group Scout Leader at Glasgow Disabled Scouts, tells us how he organised a fun-packed fortnight in the Netherlands The Scout Association SCOUTING 37 INTERNATIONAL SCOUTING ur expedition to the Netherlands in 2013 ‘We decided on the Netherlands was the first such trip for more than 20 because Scouting is very popular years. We felt that there. It’s also very accessible for theO time was right to organise a trip abroad and we also wanted to mark people with disabilities.’ the Group’s 80th anniversary with something great. It was quite a big The logistics were the biggest than themselves, so there’s a more operation – involving 40 youngsters challenge. We took a lot of our natural connection there. (aged 12–25) with physical disabilities minibuses with us, but we needed (including about 30 in wheelchairs), to borrow some more when we were Finding great facilities and 60 volunteer helpers (Explorer Scouts, there. We found that people were very meeting local Scouts mostly Young Leaders) and leaders. willing to accommodate us. We took During the first week we all camped the overnight ferry from Hull, which at Scoutcentrum Zeeland, a place Choosing and researching worked really well. P&O Ferries were by the coast in the south of the the destination great and very helpful. Netherlands. We had campfires We decided on the Netherlands with the local Scouts (including because Scouting is very popular Planning the support Scouts with disabilities) and had there. It’s also very accessible and fundraising a good sing-song. There was a for people with disabilities. The We had to raise about £100,000 to wheelchair-friendly beach nearby, landscape is fairly flat, which is fund the trip. Everybody paid a fee which was brilliant. There are boards good for wheelchairs. It took about to go, but that didn’t come close underneath the beach and a layer of three years to plan the trip and raise to covering the cost of the trip. sand. The vast majority of the young funds for it. We visited all the young people at people had never been on a beach Through Facebook, we made home and spoke to their parents before so this was a real highlight connections with Scout Leaders in and carers to get information about of their trip. We did quite a lot of the Netherlands who helped us a lot their additional needs. Some of the swimming – an outdoor swimming with the planning and logistics. We young people have severe epilepsy, or pool was quite a novel thing for us had to check all kinds of things such feeding tubes into their stomachs. coming from Scotland. as the door widths and the toilet At our Group’s regular meetings, The second week we stayed facilities for anywhere we planned Explorer Scouts support the young in indoor accommodation at to visit. A group of four leaders went people one-to-one. The young people Scoutcentrum Buitenzorg near across to the Netherlands to check spend all their lives being looked after Amsterdam. The young people took the accommodation and activities by adults. Here, the young people are the train into Amsterdam for the and they made initial bookings. supported by someone not much older day and went sightseeing. In a lot of The trip gave 40 young people with disabilities the chance to embrace new experiences Michael’s Top Tip It’s important for leaders to ask for help and advice, either from their local adviser or Assistant Commissioner for special needs or inclusion, or from UKHQ. Leaders can assume it’s going to be too difficult to take a young person with disabilities on a trip, and they don’t realise that it’s achievable. Find out more about how Glasgow Disabled Scouts achieved it here: glasgowdisabledscouts. org/2013-holland. 38 SCOUTING December/January 2015 INTERNATIONAL SCOUTING ‘Taking young people with disabilities abroad takes more planning, but the rewards definitely make it worthwhile’ says Michael The Scout Association SCOUTING 39 This trip gave young people with disabilities the chance to be supported by someone nearer their own age First steps Arrange a meeting with the young person’s parent/ carer to find out about the young person’s needs and plan accordingly, making any reasonable adjustments. Check out Member Resources at scouts.org.uk for details on accessibility and additional needs, including information about Nights Away for Scouts with additional needs. Contact the Diversity and Inclusion team at HQ for guidance. You can email the team at diversity.inclusion@ scouts.org.uk. Remember that there are grants available towards the cost of supporting adults or young people with disabilities rollercoaster was a new experience to access events. Contact for a lot of our young people. [email protected] for more information. A fantastic trip for all There is also a Headquarters Scouting is all about giving young International Fund to enable people opportunities. While taking adults and young people young people with additional needs in hardship to take part in abroad might make planning more international trips. Find out difcult, it’s definitely worthwhile! more at bit.ly/1nAuyqZ. Many of the young people had never Finally, contact your County been abroad before. Sometimes to obtain a Visits Abroad pack. their parents didn’t have the means to take them on holiday overseas. Insurance It’s great to see the excitement on a Scouts with child’s face when they’re presenting disabilities or special medical their passport. I think the young conditions need specialist cover people got so much out of it and it Scout Groups when they go on camp, to ensure suitable protection was a brilliant life experience for they have an hour of free time here on overseas trips. Unity them. It also meant that their parents and there. Due to the young people’s (Scout Insurance Services) has and carers got a valuable respite from disabilities, that wasn’t really developed travel insurance care, when they might not have had possible on our trip. We had a full specifically for Scouting. a break for years. programme all day, every day. Under this policy, a Scout Our Group is aiming to go abroad We went to Efteling, which with a disability or a medical every five years. Organising the is the largest theme park in the condition would be covered if trip to the Netherlands really Netherlands. We visited beforehand their doctor confirms they are strengthened our leadership team as to check whether it would be suitable fit to travel. For information, we were working towards this goal and asked how many of the rides call Unity on 0345 040 7703. were wheelchair accessible. They for three years. The trip was such surprised us when they said, ‘All a success and we’re really excited of them!’ Going upside down on a about planning the next one! 40 SCOUTING December/January 2015 Illustrations: Nate Kitch Nate Illustrations: The Scout Association SCOUTING 43 OUT THERE SWEDEN 1st Djursholm is the only BSO Group in Sweden and while the Scouts can often feel isolated, there have been many highlights since the LUXEMBOURG Group started, including a visit The Telstar Scout Group in Luxembourg strives to get from the Duchess of Cambridge members integrating with other local Scouts while who presented them with their promoting international Scouting. Jubilee Badges. Meetings currently take place in St. George’s The Group tends to run only International School in Luxembourg, though the during term times as everyone Group is on the lookout for its own premises. goes back to their home countries While their to-do list includes standard during the holidays so camps activities such as hiking and pioneering, the have to be fitted into the busy Group also regularly embrace the local culture. summer term. Last year was also a highlight for the Explorer Unit Despite the language barrier, as they obtained three Mérite Jeunesse Luxembourg 1st Djursholm try to get out into Gold Awards; the Mérite Jeunesse organisation is the community, especially at chaired by Prince Guillaume and endorsed by the UK Christmas, when they sell glögg Duke of Edinburgh Award. (like mulled wine) and pepparkaka (ginger biscuits) at the local market. ASCENSION ISLAND Scouting on Ascension Island, which is located in the South Atlantic Ocean between Africa and South America, is a unique experience. Not only do the young people share their home with an oceanic active volcano, they are also neighbours with hundreds of green sea turtles, which nest on all 32 sandy beaches. Unlike Scouts based in the UK, Ascension Island Scouts get to enjoy a warm climate all-year round, enjoying all activities outside while dressed in their customised, lightweight uniforms. They also get to do wide games halfway up a green mountain and enjoy community work by cleaning up some of the breathtaking beaches. 44 SCOUTING December/January 2015 OUT THERE CZECH REPUBLICoutskirts of Two former UK leaders set up Scouting on the Prague after discovering many British and International English-speaking schools in the area with pupils from expat families who couldn’t easily join Czech Scouting. Set up at Riverside International School, the Group welcomes young people from all nationalities and includes Scouts from the UK, the USA, Serbia, Libya and Russia. Not only is the Scout Group the only BSO Group in Prague, it’s also the only one in the whole of Eastern Europe, so there’s a huge catchment area to contend with! CHINA Based in Nanjing, a thriving industrial city in Eastern China, Nanjing 1st Scout Group meet in a transient community where families from all over the world stay for as long as their employment lasts. Despite fluctuating numbers, SPAIN Scouting is alive and well for With a large number of expat British Scouts. British children attending the local Set in the grounds of the British international school in Sotogrande School of Nanjing (BSN), security is (Andalusia), Spain, Mike, a former BSO a big issue for the Scout Group. But Scout Leader in Hague, Netherlands, while most activities are undertaken saw the opportunity to set up Scouting in the guarded and gated school, in his new hometown with his wife. the grounds are leafy and spacious, The Group started in April and has allowing plenty of opportunity for already grown from six to 25 members. outdoor activities. ‘We find that the young people Caroline, a part-time teacher at joining Scouting in BSO are mostly the BSN, helps run the Scout Group: challenged by living in a ‘foreign’ ‘Many Brits work overseas and British environment,’ says Mike. ‘The families Scouting Overseas (BSO) ofers a have often relocated due to work, which connection to home. Scouts can be can cause additional emotional stress. seen as a key cultural component in a We find that the young people often child’s life.’ need extra care and support due to these factors, which we try to build into our programme.’ More information British Scouting Overseas (BSO) has approximately 2,500 members across the globe and provides UK Scouting to UK citizens (and in some cases other nationalities) who are living overseas. Find out more about BSO and discover where Scout Groups are located or heading all over the world by visiting britishscoutingoverseas.org.uk . to Facebook/britishscoutingoverseas The Scout Association SCOUTING 45 volunteer advice health walk food games Advice and know-how to inspire and inform VOLUNTEER IN PROFILE ‘Sometimes people just see the disability and not the person’ Michael Randle talks about how Scouting has helped him triumph over adversity am the District Explorer and write. I’ve got a big-button phone Scout Commissioner for so I still organise the admin for the Stourbridge as well as a DofE – emails, forms, documentation Nights Away Advisor, First – all that kind of stuf. Aid Trainer, and I also helpI out with health and safety in Some people see disability as a Scouting. Just because I can’t see, it barrier. People are frightened. The doesn’t mean my brain has packed up. most annoying thing is when people talk to the person standing next to me I try to do everything that keeps because they think I can’t hear either. me active. I used to be a very active They’ll say ‘Is Mike alright?’ Why person, but when you lose your sight not ask Mike? Sometimes people your life changes dramatically. just see the disability and not I was sitting at work one day about the person. 20 years ago and I had a massive headache and passed out. I had a The biggest challenge brain clot, which totally took the when I’m Scouting is sight in my right eye. I carried on that I have to be with with life but then the sight in my left someone. I’ve lost a lot eye started to deteriorate. A couple of of confidence but I’m years ago I went completely blind due okay as long as I’m to acute glaucoma. After numerous with someone who operations I can see light and dark I know is looking but I’m registered blind; I can’t see out for me. I go on details so I can’t read or watch TV. expeditions and I’m still adapting and I’m still having other leaders treatment to give me the light and rally around to dark as long as they can. help. The kids are great – they During the first year of losing my know my issues Share your stories sight I was really down but I’ve and they work If you have remarkable Scouting accepted it now and got used to it. with me. We’re tales to tell, email us at scouting. It’s not going to stop me Scouting! all just keen to get [email protected] I have a talking computer so I can read on with Scouting! The Scout Association SCOUTING 47 volunteer advice health walk food games theknowledge what they can’t) and apply this to each layer of your planning. For instance, an individual with impaired mobility may be able to move unaided on flat ground but struggle on an incline. This will help to dictate which site you pitch on, as you’ll need a suitable route between there and the toilet block. [ Our panel of experts answers your [ Choose equipment that will be inclusion questions enabling too – for example, visually impaired young people might benefit from using brightly coloured guide ‘I have mobility ‘What would lines etc. The most important tip is to involve the Group in the planning issues – how can your top tips process – you’ll get a whole different perspective on potential problems, and I find holiday be for ensuring a matching set of solutions you might accommodation your camp is not have thought of. that will allow suitable for all?’ Blipp here to watch Tariq Patel, Scout Leader Dan Woodhouse’s our family to go Dan Woodhouse, practical camping tips away together?’ Scout Activity Centres, says: Tessa Marshall, Assistant There Scout Leader are lots of ideas out ‘How can I make there to help you Caroline Gunning, make your camp sure our HQ is Trustee/Director programme inclusive of The Holiday safe for people but it’s also important to think of Homes Trust and some of the practical aspects that GSL 1st Appleby- with visual will make your site suitable for your in-Westmorland, Group. Start the process by thinking impairments?’ Cumbria, says: about what people can do (rather than Steven Wilson, Group Scout Leader As a leader with mobility issues I know Michael Randle, how important it is to relax away District Explorer from home while sleeping under the stars! That’s why I was keen Scout Commissioner, to support the Holiday Homes says: If it is for a specific Trust, which provides wheelchair person, the best way is to accessible static caravans on consult with them and holiday parks around England. find out their needs. These We recognise that family time is will vary depending upon as important as Scouting time, so the level of their sight seek to keep a well-maintained loss. You can then make fleet on family friendly parks. a plan of improvements From the start of the new season for everyone’s safety. in 2015, we will offer members of If you require further Scouting a 10% discount. Please guidance contact the visit holidayhomestrust.org for Safety in Scouting more information. Coordinator in your County or at UKHQ. The Scout Association SCOUTING 49 volunteer advice health walk food games theknowledge bigissue TheHow can I plan festive activities that include everyone in my Group? Helen Watson, Assistant Cub Leader Laura Thorner, Kay Hill. Specialist Emma Saunders, Head of Programme and Adviser, says: Rather Educational Programme Development Adviser than thinking about Are you stuck for festive (Diversity and Inclusion) specific celebrations programme ideas? Why Exploring different faiths and beliefs is why not think in themes? For example not try making a Pony Bead Dreidel? an important part of Scouting. To respect winter brings a festival of light in many A dreidel is a four-sided spinning top that and value the diversity of Scouting, it is religions. Explore them all and help children play with during Hanukkah. important to recognise, celebrate and young people recognise the similarities This is just one activity that can be found explore the meaning behind a wide and celebrate diversity. It's also, for many, on Programmes Online, our web-based range of religious occasions throughout the end of one year and the beginning of programme planning tool to help leaders the year. This month, as well as a new one. plan activities for young people. For full Christmas, an important celebration for instructions and a range of other ideas, Christians, there is Hanukkah, the Jewish including an activity for Beavers to make ‘festival of lights’. In 2014, Hanukkah a wish star for Hanukkah, visit scouts. takes place from 16–24 December. A key org.uk/POL. consideration in planning any activities is ensuring everyone is included, feels Join the conversation comfortable and is valued. There are lots of helpful discussions taking place on our Facebook page right now. Make sure you don't miss the chance to have your say – head to The Scout Association's Facebook page to share ideas, discuss important issues and receive advice from other Scouting volunteers. Over to you… Do you have a query about Scouting, or experience you could share as a member of our reader panel? If the answer to either question is yes, email us at [email protected] with your questions and advice. The Scout Association SCOUTING 51 theknowledge Talk about it Help raise awareness and challenge stigma Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) OCD is an anxiety disorder, involving by discussing mental health with your Group repetitive unwelcome or distressing thoughts, and strong compulsions to Facts and figures stigma and discrimination, one in four repeat particular actions, such as hand Mental health is an issue that affects people in the UK are affected by a washing, counting or checking things. many, but lots of people are afraid to mental health problem in any given year. Anxiety Symptoms include regularly talk about it. According to the Time to One in 10 under 16s has a mental health feeling worried, panicky and frightened. Change campaign, England's biggest problem, with teenagers more likely to People may feel constantly on edge and programme to challenge mental health be affected than younger children. unable to concentrate. Panic attacks are Despite the prevalence of mental when you feel extremely anxious and health problems, nine out of 10 may have heart palpitations, sweating people affected experience stigma and disorientation. and discrimination. Nearly three in Self-harm Self-harm is when someone four young people fear the reactions inflicts pain on themselves. This may of friends when they talk about their include cutting or burning themselves. mental health problems. People who self-harm may feel anxious, depressed or stressed. They use self- Mental health issues include: harm as a way of dealing with their Depression Depression is different from feelings and find it to be a release. just feeling down or sad. People with depression may feel constantly tired or What you can do lacking in energy, feel hopeless, be self- You can make talking about mental critical and lose interest or pleasure in health a part of your Group’s programme things they used to enjoy. and help young people to realise having One in 10 under 16s has a mental health problem… 52 SCOUTING December/January 2015 volunteer advice health walk food games a mental health problem is nothing to be ashamed of. You don’t have to be an expert. There are many organisations that provide support and advice. The Time to Change campaign says that discussing mental health with young people can be really helpful: ‘It breaks down taboos. It enables young people to look after their own mental health, reduces the stigma around asking for help, and allows them to support their peers too.’ Create an open, supportive and trusting environment at your Group, so that young people feel able to talk to each other and adult leaders about mental health issues. The Time to Change website has lots of activity ideas, information sheets and videos for youth workers available at bit.ly/1rgYjwE. Support for young people The following organisations provide A Scout’s experience: support to young people with mental health issues, so make your Scouts aware Elizabeth, 17, Explorer Scout of them. Also remind them to speak to their GP if they have any concerns. ‘Since the age of 13, I’ve had Childline is a free, 24-hour helpline for depression and anxiety. I coped ‘I felt like a young people. Call 0800 1111. Find out with this by self-harming. My more at childline.org.uk. problems caused me to become weight was Get Connected offers free, very isolated. I was paranoid lifted when confidential help for young people about what people thought of under 25 via phone, text, email and web me and didn’t want to leave I attended chat. More information can be found at the house. I was exhausted and getconnected.org.uk. struggling to cope, especially as Scout Samaritans provide support to people only a few people knew how I of all ages in distress. Call 08457 909090, was feeling. meetings’ email [email protected] or find out ‘I felt like a weight was lifted more at samaritans.org. when I attended Scout meetings. of depression. I always felt safe, My friends in Scouting have comfortable and accepted. Support for leaders always stuck by me, and they ‘There is a stigma about Check out our guidance on life issues have never treated me differently mental health and I’m trying facing young people, including because of my illness. Going to change that. I have had substance use, emotional wellbeing and hiking or camping was a huge experience of friends (who eating disorders. Find out more at source of comfort, as I felt I could didn’t know about my self-harm) scouts.org.uk/lifeissues. escape the places that constantly saying things like ‘cutting is so For information about children’s reminded me of the pain I was stupid.’ Mental health problems mental health, contact the charity going through. are greatly misunderstood. YoungMinds or check out their website Scouting gave me great Many people view them as a at youngminds.org.uk. If you’re worried opportunities to develop as a weakness of character whereas, about a young person (aged under 25), person and never let me hide in fact, to live with mental health you can call 0808 802 5544 or email within myself as I was inclined problems and never give up takes [email protected]. to do during my worst periods astronomical strength.’ The Scout Association SCOUTING 53 theknowledge TAKE A HIKE KIRKBY STEPHEN Follow a lost railway from the enchanting Eden Valley into the wilds of the Pennines Arriving at Kirkby Stephen station (rather Claim your FREE issue* of than Kirkby Stephen Simply call 0844 776 1862 and quote CFSCT14FRE to receive East) will ensure you your FREE copy. Stock is limited so be sure to call now. enjoy stunning views of the Dales before your *Terms and Conditions online at countryfile.com/scouts walk even begins 54 SCOUTING December/January 2015 volunteer advice health walk food games Map: OS Explorer Map OL19 The route (D) After the Merrygill Viaduct, Scouting classification: Terrain zero. A From the station, take the footpath another 350m further on, drop down Mostly follows solid pathways suitable that runs parallel to the A685 through to the lane and follow it north through for all abilities and wheelchairs. open fields and, after about 700m, at the pretty village of Hartley. After about Sections of the return journey along Halfpenny House, take the lane north 500m, take the left-hand lane to Kirkby the riverside path may be muddy to the southern extremity of the town. Stephen. This follows the Hartley Beck in winter and can be avoided by Here, the old Kirkby Stephen East to where it meets the River Eden 500m following the road through Kirkby station houses a heritage centre, to the west. Cross the river into the Stephen to the station. buffet and shop. town centre, which has plenty of cafés Distance: 4 miles (7 km) (B) A short walk away, the new and shops to stop for refuelling. Time: 1.5 hours Skenkrith Millennium Footbridge, with (E) Return to the station via a Start and finish: Kirkby Stephen its exhilarating view of the River Eden delightful riverside walk. Recross station: NY 761 066 below, brings you on to the disused the Eden at Lowmill Bridge and take trackbed of the Stainmore Railway. The the footpath south along the river’s During the Victorian era, the market entire section around Kirkby Stephen east bank. town of Kirkby Stephen became has been transformed into a walking- (F) After about 750m, the footpath a thriving railway hub. In 1861, an and cyclepath, overarched by trees. leaves the river on a track – follow this ambitious line opened across the (C) After 3/4 mile (1.2km), you cross with the hedgerow to your left for an Pennines, connecting the Durham Podgill Viaduct and a magnificent view alternative view below the old railway coalfields with new iron-ore smelting opens out, with the town on your left and of the bridges that span the valleys. plants at Barrow. The Stainmore Line and the open fells to your right. A side Ignore all side routes and after 800m skirted the town to the east, passing path drops to a viewing point below the you’ll reach the old railway path just over two grand stone viaducts at arches and you can clearly see how the 250m east of Skenkrith Millennium Merrygill and Podgill, to reach Kirkby bridge was doubled in width when a bridge. From here, retrace your steps Stephen East station. second track was added. to the station. For information on running safe activities visit scouts.org.uk/activities E D B C Start and finish A Words: BBC Countryfile Picture:AlamyBBC Magazine; Words: This product includes mapping licensed from Ordnance Survey ® with the permission of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office. © Crown Copyright 2005. All rights reserved. License Number PU 100040361. This map was generated and printed by TrackLogs Digital Mapping software. For more information see www.tracklogs.co.uk. The Scout Association SCOUTING 55 theknowledge 5 sensory 5 2 experiences 4 3 Delight the senses with these stimulating excursions 1 2. SINGING RINGING TREE, WAYSIDE ARTS TRAIL BURNLEY, LANCASHIRE What: A 5m-high, wind-powered sculpture that creates eerie sounds from the top of a hill. Why: Burnley’s Wayside Arts Trail is a blend of landscape and sculpture, but the highlight is undoubtedly the Singing Ringing Tree. Made from steel pipes, Mike Tonkin and Anna 1. TRELISSICK GARDEN Liu’s sculpture takes the form of a windblown tree and NEAR TRURO, CORNWALL harnesses the Pennines’ wind to create a choral sound. How: visitlancashire.com/things-to-do/the-wayside- What: Formal and informal gardens arts-trail-p387700 with a sensory garden at their heart. Why: The garden is famed for its displays of rhododendrons, azaleas, hydrangeas and camelias while palms ThinkstockCountryfile Pictures:Alamy. BBC Magazine; Words: add a tropical feel. The small enclosed 4. HENRY MOORE WALK 5. GRIZEDALE FOREST SCULPTURE TRAIL sensory garden has been specially CUMBRIA planted with herb and flowers selected PERRY GREEN, HERTFORDSHIRE What: Step into the mind of an for their fragrance and textures. What: Eighty beautiful and thought- abstract sculptor with a walk How: nationaltrust.org.uk/trelissick- provoking sculptures dotted through through 70 acres of gardens garden; 01872 862090 8,000 acres of forest. displaying his monumental works. Why: Some of Britain’s top artists Why: The Henry Moore 3. ROYAL BOTANICAL GARDENS have created sculptures that Foundation is tucked away KEW, LONDON sometimes move, make sounds or in Moore’s former home and What: Glorious gardens and are optical illusions to challenge sculptures fill the mystical tropical hothouses that provide walkers in this wonderful, wildlife gardens. Visitors are welcome entrancing scents and colours. rich forest. Some are permanent to touch the bronze sculptures Why: Kew Gardens offers a installations, around the grounds – that’s part wonderful sensory journey but others are of the journey of discovery – but the greatest intensity can be moulded from there is a strictly no-touching rule found in the great glasshouses. natural materials inside the galleries and studies. Head to the Princess of and gradually How: henry-moore.org Wales Conservatory, reclaimed by the forest which recreates 10 – finding them is all different climate zones, part of the fun. each with their own cast of How: grizedale flora – and sometimes fauna. sculpture.org/index. How: kew.org php/sculpture 56 SCOUTING December/January 2015 SCOUTINGESCAPES Appropriate Scout Association authorisation is required by leaders and adults running activities and events, even when using products and equipment supplied by commercial companies. Inclusion in this listing does not imply endorsement by The Scout Association Camp is never far from the minds of Scouting’s young people, so we’re bringing you some extra information in our new listings section to help you make your destination decision Acorn Adventure The Association of Beaudesert Park Acorn Adventure is an accredited Scout and Guide Centres With 124 acres of open parkland and adventure specialist. We offer fully Visit the ASGC website to find a woodland, Beaudesert is an ideal catered, pre-erected camping villages, regional directory, campsite info setting for camps and residential with programmes of adventurous and reviews. The ASGC is the visits. Our range of activities and activities, delivered by qualified biggest network of Scout and Guide flexible booking system means you instructors. We have a location and campsites in the UK and you’ll find can build a programme to suit your programme to suit everyone. From everything from a small district site needs. We can also offer team- £49pp for an adventure weekend. to large activity centres, plus training building and survival camps, all 0121 504 2070 courses and events. designed to suit your requirements. ✉ [email protected] asgc.org.uk; like us on Facebook 01543 682278 acornadventure.co.uk and follow us on Twitter. beaudesert.org Cricket Camp Located in the beautiful setting of Manor Farm Country Park, the Belchamps Scout Activity Centre Try your hand at sailing by boarding campsite has 12 pitches as well as Belchamps is set in the Essex a clipper round-the-world racing large encampments for up to 300 countryside, just a short train ride yacht. Based in the stunning waters campers. Pauline’s Lodge offers from Southend Beaches. You can of the Clyde Estuary you have the indoor dormitory accommodation come self-catered or opt for fully chance to ‘take the challenge’ and see (sleeps 48 people); a large hall, an catered, fully programmed packages. what life is like on an ocean racer. No industrial kitchen and utility room. With great indoor accommodation, experience required and all safety and Plus there’s a fully equipped training over 40 activities and lots to do wet-weather gear provided. room and IT café, tuck shop and Scout nearby, camp has never been easier. 0844 335 1416 shop. Open all year round, we offer 01702 562690 ✉ [email protected] many adventurous activities. ✉ [email protected] clydechallenger.co.uk or like us on 023 8040 5151 belchamps.org.uk Facebook and follow us on Twitter. isdsc.org.uk The Scout Association SCOUTING 57 SCOUTINGESCAPES Kibblestone ICS Situated in Staffordshire two miles from the town of Stone and six miles Jeka Linnet Clough south of the city of Stoke-on-Trent, With over 50 years’ experience of Linnet Clough is a year- it’s ideal for visiting Alton Towers organizing Group holidays, JEKA can round Scout activity and the Peak District. Open all year make planning your ‘International’ centre and campsite with facilities round, it has 98 acres of camping a hassle-free process. European for a multitude of activities. We have fields and woodland, plus indoor packages by air or coach include 40 acres of grassland for camping. accommodation. The Campsite has transport, accommodation, food, We also have indoor accommodation facilities for people with additional 24-hour support and programme to suit large or small groups and needs, modern amenities and a planning service. Prices start at £329 a complex suitable for residential camp shop. Friendly and experienced per person for a 10-day/7-night tour. training courses. staff are on hand to assist with 0845 0944 099 jeka.co.uk 0161 427 1688 programme planning and advice. ✉ jekaholidays [email protected] 01785 813407 linnetclough.co.uk Newquay Activity Scout Activity Centres Scout Shops Centre National Scout Activity Centres Give back to Based in Cornwall, offer fun, challenge and adventure Scouting and buy we offer water- to Scouts, Guides, Schools and from Scout Shops sporting activities including surfing, other youth organisations through while supporting a bodyboarding, coasteering, rock our network of nine UK centres. great cause for young people. With pooling and beach safaris. All With over 50 activities, fully camping, outdoor equipment and activities are designed to introduce catered options and a range of clothing for all ages why not contact children and adults to their natural accommodation, we make outdoor our friendly and helpful staff who will environment in a safe, educational, learning affordable. Accredited and help you on your way to having that fun and engaging way. delivered by qualified instructors. adventure of a lifetime? 01637 879571 0845 300 2549 01903 766921 newquayactivitycentre.co.uk [email protected] scouts.org.uk/shop TrekAmerica Venture Abroad Walton Firs TrekAmerica has Venture Abroad use over 45 years’ Walton Firs provides the ideal base over 40 years’ experience to create tailor-made, for your camp. Camping is set in 28 experience showing international adventures for groups. acres of open land and woodland, young travellers the best of the USA, Every trip includes travel, full itinerary with easy access to the M25, M3 and Canada, Alaska and Central America. planning, organisation of excursions M4. Indoor accommodation available Organised exclusively for your Scout and even the camping equipment! So, for 86. Full list of activities on the Group and with your own tour whatever the adventure, they’ll offer website. Tents, cooking equipment leader, you can forget about logistics you all the specialist advice you need! and basic kit available for hire. and concentrate on enjoying your experience. 01332 342 050 01932 863243 0333 003 8213 ✉ [email protected] ✉ info@waltonfirs.co.uk trekamerica.co.uk/groups ventureabroad.co.uk waltonfirs.co.uk 58 SCOUTING December/January 2015 theknowledge volunteer advice health walk food games Camp canapés If you’re organising a Scout shindig this Christmas, make these tasty, toasty treats for the ultimate party food Whether you’re on camp or at a Cut your bread into Toppings each crostini with equal Christmas gathering, crostini are ideal 1 1cm slices and grill • Roughly mash 100g measures of grated for your Group to devour. Not only are them on one side until broad beans, 75g feta cheddar and gruyère these tasty bites extremely versatile, they’re light brown. cheese and a squeeze before dousing with cheap to make and easy to mass-produce, of lemon juice together Worcestershire sauce. but they’re also basically just fancy toast. Rub the toasted side with a fork and spoon Grill until golden. And what could be more fitting for a 2 with a piece of garlic onto your crostini. Add Scouting soirée? and brush or drizzle olive salt and pepper to taste. • Generously apply oil over the top. cream cheese to your • Spread each crostini with base before sprinkling Ingredients That’s it! But the making a small amount of pesto over crisp bacon bits Serves 8 of your crostini is in the before scattering them or lardons. toppings you create. Here with chopped sundried • French stick or ciabatta loaf 1 are some ideas to get you tomatoes and flaked • Pan-fry mushrooms in • Garlic cloves started. Mix and match parmesan cheese. butter with crushed 5–6, peeled and halved a few flavours for a garlic. Drain the excess • Olive oil delicious range of • Make mini cheesy liquid. Pile on toasts with • Salt and pepper Picture: Thinkstock Picture: Christmas canapés. toasts by sprinkling a little chopped parsley. The Scout Association SCOUTING 59 theknowledge CHRISTMAS FUN and GAMES WIN! COMPLETE OUR QUIZ TO WIN OS PRIZES Ordnance Survey, Great Britain’s national mapping agency, YOU COULD WIN… has over £500 worth of great prizes to give away Annual subscriptions to OS getamap: OS getamap gives you access to all Ordnance Survey • 1 of 3 subscriptions for Group use worth £100 each digital leisure maps. You can: find a ready-made route or • 1 of 10 individual subscriptions worth £19.99 each create your own; print A4 maps at 1:25,000 and 1:50,000 • 1 of 5 copies of an OS custom-made map for your Group, scales and import or export routes to a GPS device or OS worth £16.99 each MapFinder. OS Custom Made maps let you create a personalised map Get the latest ofers, news and competitions from the for your Troop centred anywhere in Britain; with your Ordnance Survey Outdoors newsletter by signing up here: choice of location, title and cover image. ordnancesurvey.co.uk/shop/connect-with-us.html THE FESTIVE QUIZ 2014 Name the diner/diners Chief Scout have with a donkey wheel? A) Swinford and Whitney-on-Wye – 1 A) Consuming milk by-products D) Sopchoppy, Willaston and 7 what do they have in common? perched perchance on a hassock or Blackawton. B) Link Lancaster University and ottoman. Warboys? B) Preferring the less presentable A) Identify a Scout associated C) How does Heckington beat Sibsey porcine pastry treat, with, or is it in, 4 with hiking but not legally. beat Alford? a greasy spoon? B) And which Scout superseded D) Link Edinburgh and Bedgelert. C) Vegetarians, who having dined, White Feller? apathetically did not want to go home. C) And where does Asparagaceae, A) Where in the Hebrides is the D) Extract of malt, please, but hold subfamily Scilloideae fit into 8 rather tongue-in-cheek ‘holding the honey and acorns. Scouting history? point Charlie’? D) And how come Scouts were given B) Langley’s book about Aladdin’s son. You might need a night with the an arrowhead badge prior to 1907? Find a UK location of the same name. 2 tiles to solve this year’s cipher 19 42 12 101 110 13 32 51 31 17 16 44 15 41 16 What was a mutt called An outing is planned. One 82 13 18 11 14 11 102 81 21 16 22 11 19 32 42 17 5 Esmeralda’s claim to fame? 9 person wants to take William 13 18 19 33 11 18 and Richard. Another suggests taking A) Who was number 452? Matilda and yet another suggests Link the following 6 B) Who was number 2 in Dorothy. Someone else wants to bring 3 A) Dad's Army to Napoleonic Section 2? Ceallach. What are they doing? weaponry. C) Who are a red 2-6-0 number 5 and B) A lieutenant in the 95th Rifles to a blue 4-4-0 number 2? A) What do apples, cherries and a watery camel’s mouth. D) And what has 1701 to do with 65 10 butter beans have in common? C) What vague connection may our and 6? B) What do apples, tomatoes and AnnaScrivenger by ladder word James, Alan Eddie Burnham, Quiz by by crossword 60 SCOUTING December/January 2015 volunteer advice health walk food games INTERNATIONAL 1 2 3 JAMBOREE TEASER We’re positive loads of you rose to last issue’s Jamboree commemorative badge challenge. Here’s the next instalment of cryptic pictures to keep you on your toes. Good luck! SCOUTING CROSSWORD DEC/JAN Across 6 A Beaver Scout’s Challenge: making red fish pin (10) 8 Speed contest? Not a barrier, given our policy of inclusion (4) 10 Adventurous member of our Terms and conditions organisation in the main! (3,5) 1) The promoter is Ordnance Survey Leisure Limited, 11 Provide cover for... dilapidated Adanac Park, Southampton S016 0AS. 2) Entrants must be UK residents aged 18 years or older, excluding Ordnance ruins, east (6) Survey’s employees, friends and family. 3) By entering, 12 Declared eg a fête ready to be you agree to be bound by these terms and conditions. 4) Only one entry per household. 5) No responsibility is enjoyed – on deep rocks (6) accepted for lost, delayed, ineligible, fraudulent entries. 14 Myths – they’re the key to 6) No purchase is necessary. 7) Closing date for entries is maps (7) 31 January 2015. 8) Winners will be drawn at random from the correct entries and notified within two months of the 15 They may hang about, frozen, closing date. 9) Winners may be required to participate this time of year! (7) in publicity arising out of this promotion and winners’ 17 Suppose... patrols initially names may be published. 10) These terms and conditions are governed by English law and the courts of England carry on after a pause (7) and Wales shall have exclusive jurisdiction. 20 Very big caging – it is unstable (8) 22 Area of soft wet ground, so arm’s broken (6) 24 Life ahead of this gives a safety feature for a 10 ac. (6) 25 Noel rig I adapted, which . our organisation does not discriminate against (8) potatoes have in common (apart from WORLD LADDER DEC/JAN 27 River dam in Felixstowe I the answer to A)? Can you get from snow to gift by changing only repaired (4) 28 C) one letter in each line to get a new word? Gets round having to use a Ah, but what might apples, cherries, map etc. (10) lemons, raspberries and plums have in common, my old mucker? Down 1 See 9dn. 2 Yuletide? Add salt, maybe (6) A) Identify a waterproof coat, an SNOW 3 Cut with a knife making hilt 11 old time surgeon, an elephant of wet (7) 4 Jump which starts around fiction and TV, a people of North Africa ____ 20th March in Britain (6) and a famous doll. 5 Gifts... now, by Santa initially B) Similarly a stuffed cat, a wind (8) 7 Rodeo Di organised – must be instrument, an old peg and ball game, aaaaaarrrrrgggghhhhhhh they Because ____ done no matter what (2-2-3) a resident of the Shire and a retired 9/1 Spruce, sporting decorations Italian footballer. and standing in a corner of the room? (9,4) 13 Ice cap melted with rain for Draw yourself a grid four SOFT alfresco dining spot (6,4) 12 squares by four squares. 16 Often pulled at 9 dn – how Put four white counters in the left ____ silly! (8) 18 Long-winded hiking? (8) column, one in each of the four 19 A sign used in Scouts – cor, pioneering! (7) squares. Put four black in the right pirates? pirates are Why 21 column. They can move only like A military entertainment, GIFT which could leave its mark on bishops-diagonally. What is the least you permanently (6) number of moves that result in the 23 Awful drug, eg ‘rocky’ (6) 26 white counters being on the right and For the solutions to last issue’s puzzles, Having a row? Use these! (4) the black on the left? head to scouts.org.uk/magazine. SPLITTER SIDE The Scout Association SCOUTING 61 LAST WORD PHIL PACKER Scouting ambassador Phil Packer MBE tells us what inspires him… You’re an inspiration to many, to choose next to challenge yourself and volunteers who young people put their but who inspires you? what can you do to help others?’ trust in. We need to continue to attract I have been fortunate to meet a lot these exceptional characters who have of inspirational figures. For me, it is the What would you say to someone the ability to bring out the very best in young people I meet who, very quietly that says they ‘can’t’? young people. These adults make UK and very humbly, choose to live their If someone is finding themselves in Scouting possible and this is the reason lives when they are suffering from that situation and they need help to become involved. illness, medical conditions or a disability, it is important to understand why rather than to just survive. Their bravery they feel that way. This is the time to inspires me and instills in me the drive listen, understand and, if appropriate, and determination to do more for other to encourage and to assist. We all young people who are finding life with have limitations and it is vital that we trauma overwhelming and a struggle. manage our own and other people’s ‘Learning from the experience is what really matters’ How has Scouting helped you? expectations. Taking part or giving When I was younger, there were something a go is the real adventure; difficulties with domestic violence at learning from the experience is home. Scouting offered a sanctuary what really matters. where I felt protected, as well as excitement through the many activities Why should more available. Since becoming a UK Scouting adults get involved in ambassador I am delighted that Scouts? there is more emphasis on inclusion Supporting young people and I feel honoured to be part of our in a safe and secure family. Scouting is a forward-thinking environment is essential to organisation and it’s great that there are their education, experience more opportunities available for young and confidence. UK people who live with disabilities. Scouting offers the structure, ethos and How can Scouts help young guidance to deliver people? this. Integral to this is We have superb adult leaders who are the calibre of adult selfless and wholeheartedly committed to providing opportunities for young people. Scouting is a lifestyle choice that offers an extraordinary list of opportunities throughout the whole of a young person’s life. My question to any young member is, ‘What are you going Phil with “Poppy” who will be both an Assistance and PAT (Pet As Therapy) Dog 66 SCOUTING December/January 2015