The ongoing uncertainty around the increasing cost of living is having a direct impact on Scouts. We all want to do what we can to make sure more young people have the opportunity to gain skills for life, and that no one misses out due to the cost.
Cost of Living information hub
Last week we launched new online guidance on the main cost of living hub. We’ll update this and respond to trends and enquires we receive nationally, as well as asking you to share your experiences of the cost of living and how it’s impacting your local experiences of Scouting.
This page has some ideas about how to reduce costs and make your Group or Unit’s money go further. We’ve heard some great examples of what you’ve been doing locally to support families. These examples include subsidising the cost of activities, offering flexible payments schedules to families who’re struggling, a Group that has generated a small fund by leasing their meeting place, and Districts that are using reserves to subsidise the cost of the annual membership subscription fee.
We’ve produced guidance for supporting our volunteers, and ideas to support with the costs of running Scouts locally including meeting places. We’re aware that it’s not just the young people who are impacted by increased costs, but volunteers may also be impacted. There are also cost pressures for running Scouts locally including increases in energy prices and the costs of other items from craft materials to food and other consumables. We’re also planning to team up with Citizen’s Advice to run a series of webinars over the next couple of months to provide more ideas on cost saving measures. We’ll publish the dates and times of these on the events page once confirmed.
Cost of Living Fund
Nationally, we’re aware of the impact of increasing costs and know there are some Groups, Districts, Counties/Areas/Regions who are unable to provide additional financial support to those in financial hardship. To try and help those most impacted, we’ve created a Cost of Living Support Fund to make sure the young people most affected by rising costs are still able to take part in Scouts.
The fund is now open and will be accepting applications from Groups and Units on behalf of Scouts. You may need to contact parents/carers who you’re aware are struggling to afford the costs of Scouts and let them know that there is support available. Applications need to be supported by the local District Commissioner. The closing date for applications to the fund will be Wednesday 23 November. You can read full guidance on the fund and how to apply online and sign up to a webinar on Tuesday 25 October at 7.30pmwhere we’ll talk through the process and answer questions from leaders who are considering applying on behalf of families in their Group or Unit.
Thank you
Finally, we would just like to offer our heartfelt thanks for everyone who is doing all they can to find ways that support young people and fellow volunteers. We can all play a part in making sure that cost doesn’t become a barrier to young people or volunteers enjoying and taking an active part in Scouts.
