Scouts change lives. We’re do-ers and thinkers and give-it-a-goers. We try our best to change lives every day. Scouts teach young people skills for life.

But we can only do this thanks to our volunteers.

From section leaders and assistants to managers and trustees, around a hundred volunteers help us deliver scouting in the New Forest. There is a role to suit any skills, work commitments or lifestyle that our volunteers have.

But why do people volunteer with the Scouts? Check out the video below to find out why people volunteer.

Can’t see the video above? Click here.

Am I the right person for you?

A leader helps a Beaver scout with their task.

With many different volunteer roles, there is something for any volunteer. You don’t have to be an adventurer to volunteer, if you have administrative skills or a good cook or can just form part of a team then you’d make a great volunteer. Our volunteers contribute anything from an hour a week to an hour a month or even just a camp a year and the roles are very flexible on your time.

Part of the process involves meeting with our appointments committee to make sure the role matches you as a volunteer. Don’t hesitate to ask if you want to find out more or what roles could suit your skills and your time.

What support is available?

All our volunteers receive training tailored to supporting them in their role. From leadership to running activities and first aid, the training modules are directly relevant to a role and manageable. In fact the adult training programme has even won awards from UK Skills.

In addition to this, there are lots of scouters right here in our district to support our volunteers in their roles as well as the Scout Information Centre on a national level for all to access.

What do I gain from volunteering?

Scouts can give you skills and experiences that will positively impact on your personal and work life; in fact over 90% of volunteers recently said this. The training can help you become a better leader or supporter and you might even learn some new skills as well. Two thirds of volunteers have even said that scouting has helped them in gaining work or advancing their career.

As well as that, Scouting provides opportunities for adventure, fun and friendship for the adults as well as the young people. Plus nothing beats the smile from a scout when they try something new or make a new friend.

Check out the video above to find out more reasons why scouting volunteers give up their time to help our young people.

What are you waiting for?

Find out more, ask questions about us, and jump into the volunteering adventure.