Policy, Organisation and Rules

Our purpose is to actively engage and support young people in their personal development, empowering them to make a positive contribution to society.

As Scouts, we are guided by these values:

Integrity - We act with integrity; we are honest, trustworthy and loyal.
Respect - We have self-respect and respect for others.
Care - We support others and take care of the world in which we live.
Belief - We explore our faiths, beliefs and attitudes.
Co-operation - We make a positive difference; we cooperate with others and make friends.

Our development of young people takes place when the young people, in partnership with adults, work together based on the values of Scouting and:

• enjoy what they are doing and have fun
• take part in activities indoors and outdoors
• learn by doing
• share in spiritual reflection
• take responsibility and make choices
• undertake new and challenging activities
• make and live by their Promise.

1.4.1.1 The origins of The Promise
The Promise is rooted in the work of our Founder and represents a number of theist faith traditions. (Theist: someone who believes in the existence of a god or gods [Collins Dictionary])

1.4.1.2 For countries outside the United Kingdom and the Crown Dependencies
It is acknowledged that a person resident in a country outside the United Kingdom, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man who seeks to become a member of Scouts may also owe allegiance to their own country.  

This particularly applies in countries in British Scouting Overseas and each of the Overseas Territories. In such cases, the phrase ‘duty to The King’ may be replaced by the phrase ‘duty to the country in which I am now living’. 

1.4.1.3 Other forms of wording
Where a form of wording of the Promise is required for a member of a particular faith or religion not included in this current edition of Chapter 1, advice must be sought from UK Headquarters.

1.5.1.1 The Scout Promise
On my honour, 
I promise that I will do my best 
to do my duty to God and to The King,
to help other people 
and to keep the Scout Law.

1.5.1.2 Variations – alternative wording of the Promise that Scouts, Explorers, Scout Network and adults may wish to use to best reflect their own beliefs
Scouts is open to people of all faiths and of none and must therefore take account of the different religious obligations of its members while upholding the essential spirit of the Promise.

For young people, the decision regarding which permitted form of wording to use rests with them. In the Scout and Explorer sections it is good practice for parents to be aware of their young person’s choice.

For adults, the decision regarding which permitted form of wording to use rests entirely with the individual adult. 

1.6.1.1 The Scout Law

1.  A Scout is to be trusted.
2. A Scout is loyal.
3. A Scout is friendly and considerate.
4. A Scout belongs to the world-wide family of Scouts.
5. A Scout has courage in all difficulties.
6. A Scout makes good use of time and is careful of possessions and property.
7. A Scout has self-respect and respect for others. 

1.7.1.1 The Cub Promise
I promise that I will do my best 
to do my duty to God and to The King,
to help other people 
and to keep the Cub Scout Law.

1.7.1.2 Variations – alternative wording of the Promise that Cubs may wish to use to best reflect their own beliefs
Scouts is open to people of all faiths and of none and must therefore take account of the different religious obligations of its members while upholding the essential spirit of the Promise.

For young people, the decision regarding which permitted form of wording to use rests with them. In the Squirrel, Beaver and Cub sections, parents must be aware of the chosen Promise before the investiture ceremony. 

1.8.1.1 The Cub Scout Law
Cub Scouts always do their best,
think of others before themselves
and do a good turn every day.

1.9.1.1 The Beaver Promise and Squirrel Promise 
I promise to do my best to be kind and helpful and to love God.

1.9.1.2 Variations – alternative wording of the Promise that Beavers and Squirrels may wish to use to best reflect their own belief
Scouts is open to people of all faiths and of none and must therefore take account of the different religious obligations of its members while upholding the essential spirit of the Promise. 

1.10.1.1 The Law
There is no formal Beaver Scout Law or Squirrel Scout Law.   

The concepts expressed in the Scout Law are presented to Beaver Scouts and to Squirrel Scouts through games, storytelling and other informal activities.