How You Can Help South Ribble Scouts Give Young People Skills for Life

Your Time, Their Future: Volunteer with South Ribble Scouts

Imagine helping a young person light their first campfire, find the courage to speak in front of friends, or discover they can do something they thought was impossible. That’s the difference our volunteers make every week in South Ribble Scouts.

And right now, we need more people like you.

Why Volunteers Matter

Scouting is booming in South Ribble. With new Squirrel Dreys for ages 4–6 and record numbers of young people wanting to join, our groups are thriving. But here’s the challenge: without more volunteers, some young people may have to wait. Every badge earned, every adventure started, every skill gained — it all happens because of volunteers who give a little time and make a huge difference. Will you be the one who helps make it happen?

Spotlight on Squirrels

Squirrels is a safe, fun and nurturing space where young children can take their first steps into Scouting. Through stories, games and activities, they:

• Learn to share, take turns and work together
• Build early confidence and independence
• Try hands-on skills like simple cooking, gardening or craft
• Get outdoors and explore nature — often for the very first time

Squirrels has been so popular locally that demand already outstrips supply. We want to open more Dreys across South Ribble, but we need volunteers to make that happen. Even helping once or twice a month could mean dozens more young children get the chance to join in.

What You’ll Gain as a Volunteer

Volunteering with Scouts isn’t just about giving — it’s about gaining too. Our volunteers in South Ribble tell us they’ve discovered:

• New skills in leadership, teamwork and event planning
• Confidence for work and life (great for your CV!)
• Friendships and community you can count on
• The joy of seeing young people flourish

And you don’t have to commit every week. Whether you can help run activities, organise behind the scenes, drive a minibus, or lend a hand at camp, there’s a role that fits your time and skills.

One of our own leaders was even nominated for a National Diversity Award thanks to their inspiring work.

The Impact You’ll Make on Young People

Your time means young people in South Ribble can:

• Build confidence and resilience
• Learn how to work as a team and lead others
• Discover skills for life they’ll use forever

Nationally, research shows:

• 91% of young people say Scouts helps them build skills for life
• 83% feel more confident taking leadership roles
• 88% improve teamwork and problem-solving

👉 Read more about the skills young people need to succeed.

In South Ribble, that looks like a Cub proudly leading their first campfire song, a Scout speaking up in class, or an Explorer running a project that improves their community.

Shaping Active Citizens

Scouts here don’t just have fun — they give back. From park clean-ups to fundraising for local charities, young people are learning to be active citizens who care about their communities.

Our district has bounced back stronger than ever since the COVID-19 pandemic, with youth membership growing faster than in recent years. Volunteers are the reason that’s possible.

How to Get Involved

Volunteer with us: Give a little time, make a big difference. You don’t need to be outdoorsy mad — just bring enthusiasm, and we’ll support you every step of the way. Find a role with South Ribble Scouts.

For young people: Scouts is where fun, friendship, and skills come together. If you’d like your child to join the adventure, now’s the time. Join South Ribble Scouts

At South Ribble Scouts, every young person deserves a chance to try, belong and grow. Together, with the help of volunteers, we’re building skills for life. Will you be part of it?