Scouting for Adults in St John's Wood, North West London

John Larkin, Group Treasurer for 8th Marylebone Scout Group, explains why 'Scouting for adults' might not be what it initially sounds...

"Adults can still do activities as well as the young people if they wish, personally I love the outdoor life. The first day of my first foreign tour with the Diehards back in 1966 was so impressive waking up in Kandersteg, Switzerland after all night travelling, I was so impressed that I jumped at the opportunity to go again with the scouts in 2013 (images above). I loved every minute of it! We are going again in 2017.

I have been in scouting in North West London all my life, had many roles and I would not give it up, here are my reasons why.

Firstly, we do this for free, if I am paid it would not have the same buzz or attract like minded people into the movement. We are a registered charity.

Secondly, it is hugely rewarding to see the development of our youngsters become good citizens. Even the least likely often turn out to surprise us when grown up and reflect on scouting as an important factor.

Thirdly, scouting has given me the opportunity to do things I would never have done especially outdoors, it has given me more confidence in life to take on more responsible roles and even run my own business.

Lastly, it is great fun still, the friends I have made are lifetime friends, many for over 50 years now!

Adults can still do activities as well as the young people if they wish, personally I love the outdoor life. The first day of my first foreign tour with The Diehards back in 1966 was so impressive waking up in Kandersteg, Switzerland after all night travelling, I was so impressed that I jumped at the opportunity to go again with the scouts in 2013 (images above). I loved every minute of it! We are going again in 2017.

Q - Scouting's for kids, I'm too old to start now.

A - Never too late to join, age 6 to 106!

Q - I am not keen to wear uniform.

A - You don't have to be a uniformed member to enjoy the spirit of Scouts. There are many roles you can do. Uniform is a leveller for all walks of life, just one of the ideals and methods used in Baden Powell's experimental camp in 1907 all of which are still the cornerstones of modern scouting.

Q - I will feel a bit lost as I do not have any knowledge or scouting skills.

A - You would be surprised how much you do know! You may be able to help with a badge using your own specialist knowledge. There are many worthwhile roles you can do that does not require specific scouting skills, however if you do decide you would like to try a more active role we will provide all the training you need spread over times to suit you. It is a team effort and we play to our strengths and all muck in.

Q - But I don't have the time.

A - No one does, we make the time as it is important and rewarding to see our youngsters enjoy the experiences presented to them, plus things schools cannot deliver. Think of it as a hobby or pastime, many adults have said to me in the past that it is a great stress reliever. It really is fun for adults too.

Q - I may only want to be involved for a short time and concerned that I cannot back out.

A - Any help is appreciated whether it be for a few weeks, just the odd camp or for a set period.

Q - I don't live in St John's Wood.

A - Our Scout Group Leaders live right across North West London, there's no such thing as a catchment area for adults who are looking for activities to get involved with and discover personal development opportunities. Our Scout Hall is no more than 10 minutes walk from St John's Wood on the Jubilee Line and Maida Vale on the Bakerloo.

Several leaders and committee members make a big commitment as they travel in from outside London and we need more adults closer to HQ. Here's how you can get involved and what roles you could do?

If you would like to work directly with a section come along for a few weeks and get a feel for the evening. You will soon see what you enjoy doing and we can go from there. Uniform is optional for helpers. As I am sure you would be aware of we will need to ask the Scout Association to run a CRB check but that is fairly straight forward to do these days. If your child has just joined Beavers you will find it fun and easy to be involved with them, they grow up so quick. The more help the easier it is.

You can help on weekly meetings behind the scenes by operating the register, giving information out to parents and making refreshments at the end. This frees up valuable time for the leaders to concentrate on running the programme. If you prefer to be even more behind the scenes we need assistance in planning trips and events, servicing equipment, fund raising or being part of the Executive Committee.

Whatever you can do will be welcome and will make a difference, just speak to a section leader or to Cliff.

Thanks

John Larkin (Treasurer)