Safeguarding in Scouting

It is the policy of The Scout Association to safeguard the welfare of all members by protecting them from neglect and from physical, sexual and emotional harm.

We are committed to:

Taking the interests and well-being of young people into account, in all our considerations and activities.

Respecting the rights, wishes and feelings of the young people with whom we work.

Taking all reasonable practicable steps to protect them from neglect, physical, sexual and emotional abuse.

Promoting the welfare of young people and their protection within a position of trust.

All adults in Scouting, including members of the Scout Network who wish to work with young people, are responsible for putting this policy into practice at all times.

An adult in Scouting has a responsibility to ensure that young people are protected from harm. It is the responsibility of each adult in Scouting to ensure that:

Their behaviour is appropriate at all times.

They observe the rules established for the safety and security of young people.

They follow the procedures following suspicion, disclosure or allegation of child abuse.

They recognise the position of trust in which they have been placed.

In every respect, the relationships they form with the young people under their care are appropriate.

Further information

Young People First (Yellow Card)

Young People First for Young Leaders (Orange Card)

‘Stay Safe’ Leaflets for Young people (Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Explorers)

Safeguarding Referral Form

DC Procedures

Safeguarding information for parents

Safeguarding Awareness Training

Safeguarding Awareness Co-ordinators

Anti-Bullying

The Scout Association’s Safeguarding and Vetting Service Standards

Beaver and Cub video

Beaver and Cub video with subtitles

Scout and Explorer video

Scout and Explorer video with subtitles

Working Safely with Young People

The ‘Young People First’ code of good practice (yellow card)

As an adult in Scouting you have a responsibility to ensure that young people are protected from harm. It is the responsibility of each adult in Scouting to ensure that:

their behaviour is appropriate at all times
they observe the rules established for the safety and security of young people
they follow the procedures following suspicion, disclosure or allegation of child abuse
the recognise the position of trust in which they have been placed; and
in every respect, the relationships they form with young people on their care are appropriate

All Adults in Scouting, including Members of the Scout Network who wish to work with young people, must accept and understand this policy. They must also agree to put the Association’s policy on child protection into practice.

Meeting your responsibilities

To give positive guidance the ‘Young people First’ (yellow card) sets out a code of behaviour. It is essential that all adults in Scouting follow this code. The ‘do’s and don’ts’ can help you ensure that:

the welfare of the young people for whom you have a duty of care is safeguarded
you avoid compromising situations or opportunities for misunderstandings or allegations

Every Adult should have a copy of the code of good practice ‘Young People First’ (yellow card). The yellow card is designed for you to keep – carry it.

Check that:

you have your own copy
all other adults involved in the work of your Section/Group also have a copy
you have a copy (A3) of the Yellow Card displayed in you HQ or meeting place
parents / carers are made aware of the ‘Young People First’ Policy

Code of behaviour

Do remember that you are a role model at ALL times, inside and outside Scouting
Do treat everyone with dignity and respect in line with the Scouting Values
Do treat all young people equally – do not show favouritism
Do follow the adult to young person ratios at all times
Do remember that you have been placed in a position of trust – do not abuse this
Do report all allegations, suspicions and concerns immediately
Do remember that someone may misinterpret your actions
Do respect a young person’s right to personal privacy
Do act within appropriate boundaries even in difficult circumstances
Do encourage an open and transparent culture
Do create an environment where young people feel safe to voice their concerns
Do have appropriate sleeping arrangements and changing facilities for young people, adults and Young Leaders

Do not drink alcohol when you are responsible for young people and never allow young people on Scouting activities to drink alcohol
Do not trivialise abuse or let it go unreported
Do not join in physical contact games with young people
Do not overstep the boundaries between yourself and young people by engaging in friendships or romantic or sexual relationships
Do not allow activities that encourage bullying behaviour including initiation ceremonies, dares or forfeits
Do not use inappropriate, suggestive or threatening language
Do not plan to be alone with a young person – do plan activities that involve at least one other adult being within sight and hearing
Do not rely on your reputation or position to protect you

GENERAL FACTSHEETS FOR LEADERS ATTENDING COUNTY TRAINING