While we’ve seen some positive movement in volunteer numbers, we know we need to do more.
This article is part of a monthly series of ways to support adult recruitment in groups. We have seen where everyone plays a part in recruiting volunteers, we see more adult volunteers in the group.
As a district, we’ll be advertising for adult volunteer roles in key areas – but one of the most effective ways to find new volunteers is much closer to home: parent rotas.
A parent rota can be a really effective way to involve families and secure regular support, even from those who aren’t formal leaders. OSM offers a straightforward rota tool that’s simple for parents to use, and it automatically reminds them when they’re due to help. You can make this feel like a normal part of their child’s involvement by including a note with the programme, such as inviting them to sign up for one session during the term, pick an activity they enjoy, and come along to join in. It also helps to send a gentle reminder email now and then throughout the term. Allowing parents to choose their own date has clear benefits: those who enjoy creative activities can opt for craft nights, while more energetic parents might prefer outdoor sessions.
They also allow you to get to know the parents so you can begin to build a relationship with them. You may stumble across key skills that they are willing to share, or discover they have a job which could welcome members and deliver an evening for your section.
That said, not every parent will be happy to put their name on a rota, and you may feel you’ve already asked for support repeatedly. Another option is to assign sessions to families and ask them to swap amongst themselves if they’re unavailable, or to make participation in the rota a condition of joining. However, most people don’t respond well to feeling pressured, so wording is important. The aim is for parents to see this as something positive and enjoyable, rather than an obligation. Even if your current group doesn’t engage, new families may assume that taking part in a parent rota is simply how things are done.
It’s also important to remember that some parents genuinely can’t help because of work commitments, childcare, or other responsibilities. Try to stay flexible and avoid making anyone feel uncomfortable or guilty. They may be able to contribute in different ways, or at a later time.
A parent acts as an introduction to Scouting, and breaks the biggest barrier to volunteering – getting adults through the door. Think of it as creating a natural pathway into volunteering.
