Scouting is thriving in Milton Keynes

Scouting continues to grow in Milton Keynes. Figures show that for the fourth successive year, there has been an increase in the number of people involved in Scouts in the City.

There have been increases for all the youth sections; Squirrels (ages 4 to 5), Beavers (ages 6 to 8), Cubs (ages 8 to 10), Scouts (ages 10 to 14) and Explorers (14 to 17). There has also been an increase in the number of volunteers involved with Scout Groups in the City. Overall, the number of boys and girls involved rose by over 6% and the number of adults increased by nearly 3%.

Jason Raggett, Lead Volunteer for Milton Keynes Scouts said, “It’s great to see four years of growth which means that more young people are learning skills for life.” He added that our amazing volunteers provide incredibly varied activities for young people. Badges the young people can earn range from Air activities to Emergency Aid, Global Issues to Martial Arts. Nights Away to Pioneer and Scientist to Water Activities. Jason detailed that there were nearly 450 on the waiting list to join the sections. He added, “We are looking for volunteers. If you want to be involved in any of the sections we would be able to find you a role.” He added, “We have various roles in the background. These range from being a trustee, looking after the finances, IT, fund raising, admin etc. Whatever time you can give, we would be able to find a role for you. If you want to stay in your comfort zone, you can, but If you want to be taken out of your comfort zone, you can too.

In a recent report by Steph Simmons she said, “Joining Scouts will lead to lasting memories and thrilling experiences for your child which will expand their self-belief, helping them realise there’s nothing they can’t achieve, whilst having fun! Whether it’s camping under the stars, navigating obstacle courses, canoeing on a river, or participating in international jamborees, Scouts enjoy an array of exciting activities that fuel their sense of adventure.”

Adult volunteer Nigel, said, “Volunteering with Scouts is a great opportunity to help young people learn and develop skills along with having fun and trying out new activities. It’s also a great opportunity to learn and develop new skills yourself, make friends, try new activities and take pride in seeing young people develop.”

He added “As volunteers, we can help put the foundations in place. We then encourage the children and young people to build upon them as they try new activities and learn skills for life. Children and young people want adventure and we provide the opportunity to have those adventures.” For more information about becoming a volunteer, please visit https://www.bucks-scouts.org.uk/join