Adult to Young People ratios

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Ratios for online Scouting

There must be at least two adults present at all times during any online activity. Ideally both adults should be Scout volunteers, but you can use a parent rota to support as you would normally do. Young people must never be left in a one-to-one situation with an adult. This protects us all and underlines our commitment to effective safeguarding.

Learn more about staying safe online

Beavers

Indoors: Minimum of 2 Adults present

Outdoor activities held away from the usual meeting place: 1 Adult to 6 Beavers, plus the Leader in charge

Nights away experiences (led by Nights Away Permit Holder): 1 Adult to 6 Beavers, plus the Leader in charge. Minimum of 2 Adults must be present overnight

Cubs

Indoors: Minimum of 2 Adults present

Outdoor activities held away from the usual meeting place: 1 Adult to 8 Cubs, plus the Leader in charge

Nights away experiences (led by Nights Away Permit Holder): 1 Adult to 8 Cubs, plus the Leader in charge. Minimum of 2 Adults must be present overnight

Scouts

Indoors: Minimum of 2 Adults present

Outdoor activities held away from the usual meeting place: 1 Adult to 12 Scouts

Nights away experiences (led by Nights Away Permit Holder): 1 Adult to 12 Scouts. Minimum of 2 Adults must be present overnight

Explorers

For all Explorer Scout regular indoor meetings a minimum of two adults must be present and a minimum of two adults for all nights away activities. For all meetings and activities, leaders should assess the risk and make sure that there are enough adults present to keep everything safe while the section is running. This risk assessment may mean that more adults are needed than the minimum ratios. It's possible for young people to hold a Nights Away Event Passport, which allows them to run a nights away event for their peers, without adults present. In which case, the ratios will not apply.