Behind every campfire, badge and big smile is a volunteer who made it possible
Due to demand from West Yorkshire young people who want to have fun, make friends, try challenging activities, get outdoors and take part in adventure the 1st Heckmondwike Scouts have opened a new Scout Troop for girls aged 10-14 years, and the Cheviots Explorer Scout Unit has opened for boys and girls aged 14-17 years.
When 70 per cent of young people spend most of their free time on screens, this precious time attending camps and getting outdoors is more important than ever.
The Scouts offers more than two hundred activities, from outdoor adventures and creative arts to community projects and technical challenges. Whether it’s hiking, building robots, or launching a social action project, the team at Heavy Woollen are providing children with a safe, supportive place to grow.
Dwayne Fields, adventurer, TV presenter and Chief Scout said: “It’s so important that young people have a chance to get outdoors and to feel wet grass under their feet and a little mud on their hands. Living and working together with others at camp and on outdoor activities helps build an adventure spirit, respect and grit - all key life skills”
More new sections are needed this year as there are over 400 children on waiting lists in Heavy Woollen who want to join. There are also opportunities for adults to join in the fun by sharing some of their time and their talents.
Alan, a Scout volunteer said: "Behind every campfire, badge and big smile is a volunteer who made it possible. Join our team and you’ll make all the difference to young lives and feel great. Whether you want to work with young people directly or help behind the scenes as a Trustee, there's something for everyone at Scouts.’’
In a recent poll 94 per cent of Scouts said they had developed useful skills, 95 per cent said they’ve tried activities they haven’t tried before and 85 per cent said they are happier since joining.
The 1st Heckmondwike Scouts meet at the Soothill Community Centre, 10 Broomsdale Road, Batley WF17 6NL and the Cheviots Explorer Scouts meet at The Scout Hut, Thomas Street, Heckmondwike WF16 0NW.
Whether you have a young person wanting to go on an adventure, or you’re an adult wanting to help create these adventures contact the team at [email protected] to find out more.