Section 9: Key Policies of TSA

The Scout Movement includes members of many different faiths and religions as well as those with no formal religion. The following policy has received the approval of the heads of the leading religious bodies in the United Kingdom.

All members of the Movement are encouraged to make every effort to progress in the understanding and observance of the Promise to do their best to do their duty to God or to uphold Scouting’s values as appropriate, you may encourage Scout Network members to think about how they can explore their faith, beliefs and attitudes, your District may have appointed a chaplain or other advisers to give more practical advice and support.

The Association is committed to equal opportunity for all young people and adults. No person should receive less favourable treatment or be disadvantaged because of their class, where they come from, gender, marital or sexual status, mental or physical ability, or political or religious beliefs.

The policy requires that Scouting is provided in a safe manner without, as far as is reasonably practicable, any risk to health. This affects Scouting in several ways and requires more than just ensuring that all activities are conducted safely. For example, the policy covers buildings and equipment (requiring that they are appropriately maintained and fit for purpose), together with the transportation, storage and handling of equipment or substances.

It is the policy of The Scout Association to check all adult volunteers to ensure that: only adults appropriate for a role are permitted to undertake responsibilities in Scouting, and that regular reviews are undertaken of adult volunteers to ensure their continued suitability.

Members of Scout Network are required to undertake a Personal Enquiry without a criminal records disclosure check (by being added to Compass as a member of the relevant District Scout Network). If members of Scout Network assist with or supervise members of a younger section, they must be appointed to an appropriate role (such as an Occasional Helper, Section Assistant or Leader) and undertake the relevant appointment process (including undertaking a criminal records disclosure check).

The Scout Association acknowledges the duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and young people and is committed to ensuring safeguarding practice reflects statutory responsibilities and government guidance, and complies with best practice and The Charity Commission requirements.

It is the responsibility of all adults in Scouting to help develop a caring and supportive atmosphere where bullying in any form is unacceptable. We will explore the bullying policy and associated procedures in unit 5.

The Scout Association is the largest co-educational youth organisation in the UK and it is increasing in membership. However, it is recognised that access to Scouting is not yet equally available in all communities. All adults, whether at Group, District or County level are required, through the Development Policy, to identify and address areas within their boundaries where young people do not have the opportunity to be Scouts. This may be in areas of urban disadvantage, in largely rural areas or among minority ethnic communities. The Regional Services Team (RST) supports development work. In addition, there is funding available to aid this.