Co-operation with others
Co-operation with others
An international camp is a high profile event and can offer a great opportunity to co-operate with commercial, service and charitable organisations. By far the most important partner group is Girlguiding UK. There are a number of methods of operation in conjunction with the Guides as follows:
- A Scout-run event to which Guides are invited (recognising that a majority of
European Associations are mixed or merged organisations) - A real partnership, with joint leadership and responsibilities
- A nominal partnership, with token representatives in the management and operation of the camp
- A partnership based on positions of responsibility being filled on the merit of individuals
Each of these operations requires careful forward planning and good communications to ensure that all who are involved are aware of what is going on. In addition, there are different ways in which the two headquarters are involved. Overseas participation by Guides will often be co-ordinated by the Girlguiding UK’s at national level. Another consideration is that Guide and Scout Counties are often different with Guide Counties usually smaller than Scout Counties/Areas. Also, if Guides are to be involved, be sure that activity rules are compatible.
- Most Districts and Counties have support networks which can provide varying degrees of support.
- Scout Fellowship and Trefoil Guild members have a wealth of experience
and expertise for programme, organisation, useful contacts and the time to donate to the success of the event - The Rotary Scout Fellowship at national level ensures the potential of a close working relationship.
- Specialist teams, such as communications teams, archery teams, karting
- Chaplaincy teams will have links to local churches and can help to establish
meaningful pastoral care and appropriate activities and religious observances - National support networks Fellowships such as UK-Arab, Serbia and Montenegro, Russia, UK-Africa, GAPP, Kandersteg etc, will provide advice, help and contacts.
- Never overlook the huge support which can be forthcoming from local authorities.
- Keep local councillors informed of your plans
- Liaise with departments of the local councils to help in providing leisure venues and loan and hire equipment and expertise
- Apply to relevant committees for grant assistance
- Education committees can provide coaches and mini-buses
- Twin-Town Committees can provide useful contacts for overseas Scout and Guide groups
- Specialist youth groups, part of the statutory youth sector, often have a specialty, for example circus skills, drama groups, climbing teams.
- The Territorial Army
- British Red Cross
- St John’s Ambulance
- St Andrew’s Ambulance
- WRVS
- Local police
- Local fire service
- Local national societies-Japanese, German etc.
- Local ethnic groups
- Forestry Commission (or Forest Estates)
- Local media
The following is a list of types of companies which have provided services to previous camps. Approaches should be made to local managers and they should be provided with a good quality presentation pack, outlining the objectives of the camp, the impact the event will have on our young people and the impact Scouting has on the community locally, nationally and internationally.
- Banks
- Glass engravers
- Craft specialists
- Local newspapers
- Coach operators
- Train operating companies
- Catering and the licensed trade
- Camping equipment suppliers
In an effort to maximise the impact of programme on the participants, it is useful to make contact with organisations with specialist advice on topics which may not be fully covered within Scout circles.
- Aid agencies – for example: Oxfam, UNICEF, Action Aid, Christian Aid, CAFOD, SCF, DfID and locally based organisations
- Local Council for Voluntary Youth Service
- Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
- Prince’s Trust
Finally, try to involve the entire Scout County by keeping all Sections informed about what is being planned. This will help to maintain interest, reinforce Sectional links and reveal a wealth of talent, which can be involved during the camp.