Keeping young people safe with zero-tolerance for racism

This summer, very sadly, we’ve already seen instances of intolerance, racism and violence in our communities.

Some of this has affected young people directly, which has been incredibly hurtful. In addition to racist behaviour, activity on social media often makes the situation worse, with misinformation and comments victimising and intimidating those from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds.

We’re proud that Scouts offers inclusive and welcoming spaces in our communities. The safety and wellbeing of young people remains a key priority for us. We will be continuing to support our members to keep them safe and free from harm. 

Taking positive action  

In Scouts, we’re taking action by speaking out against racism, and increasing our support for volunteers, helping them keep young people safe. This is set against a backdrop of an increasingly hostile environment in the UK towards asylum seekers and those from minority ethnic communities. 

When we see unrest and division in our communities, we need to remember the powerful difference Scouts makes. We create opportunities to engage people from different communities in positive experiences, together.  

Led by our values  

As Scouts, working at the heart of our communities, we reject racism and discrimination in all its forms. We’re proud to be open to all, and everything we do is led by our values. 

Within our movement, we have a zero-tolerance approach to racism and expect all members and those who work with our Scouts to meet these expectations, thinking carefully about our words and actions in person and online.  

We bring people together, not drive them apart. We bridge divided communities and find common ground. We’re proud to help young people understand, respect and celebrate their differences. 

Encouraging a spirit of mutual respect 

We know that these incidents will be worrying and unsettling for young people and volunteers. Most will still be on summer holidays and away from Scouts, and the stability they get from their regular Scouts sessions.     

Our programme helps young people understand and explore the faith and beliefs of others, encouraging a spirit of respect, curiosity, and openness.   

Showing unity and international friendship this summer 

In Scouts, we show young people that friendship and unity is more powerful than hatred and fear. We’ve seen that across so many Scout events this summer, not least our summer camps, including the Festival of Scouting and Guiding in Kent, NorJam in Norfolk and those who attended the World Scout Moot in Portugal. Tens of thousands of young people from across the UK, as well as many different countries have met in a spirit of peace, friendship, and mutual respect.   

We should not forget the hugely positive work we’ve done across the UK, bringing Scouts to the most under-represented communities, especially the Muslim community, and the benefits this has brought to young people, families, and to Scouts. We’re also supporting the development of Scouts in Black communities, as part of our continued commitment to the inclusion, participation and support for young people.  

We need to remember that Scouts is a powerful beacon of hope and positivity. Scouts brings together people from all backgrounds in a spirit of unity and friendship. Our Scout values of integrity, respect, care, belief and cooperation feel as relevant as ever. 

Positive role models

Our volunteers are powerful and positive role models for our young people, showing that generosity and kindness always wins out in the end.   

The work our volunteer leaders do is helping young people stay safe, in communities, in real life and online, recognising fake news and misinformation when it appears.   

Taking care of ourselves and others 

You may wish to reach out and share a simple message of support and reassurance with your young people. If you feel comfortable, explain that you’re happy to speak with anyone who feels worried. 

You could highlight that those involved in this behaviour are in the minority. Most people in our communities are good and decent people, who help others.  

It’s also vital to look after your own wellbeing. If you're upset by what you’ve seen and experienced, please speak with members of your local team for support.  

Finally, if you see or hear words or actions either online or in person that go against our values, including from other Scouts, it's important we call it out, while keeping ourselves safe. You can speak with your volunteer line manager or contact us at [email protected].

Thank you for all you do for young people and communities.