Scouting for All
The Equal Opportunities Policy – Being open and inclusive
Scouting is an inclusive, values based movement and membership is open to all those who share our fundamental values (integrity, care, co-operation, respect and belief). The Equal Opportunities Policy outlines what we do to ensure the movement is open and accessible; and that people are treated equally and with respect. This policy is reflective of the ethos of Scouting, expressed by our fundamental values and our commitment to delivering Scouting for all. By removing any real or perceived barriers to participation, we can ensure that even more young people can enjoy the adventure of Scouting and that Scouting will be as diverse as the communities in which we live.
Including Everyone
Find out how to create an inclusive programme to ensure that no young person should receive less favourable treatment on the basis of, nor suffer disadvantage harassment or discrimination by reason or form of prejudice and discrimination, including racism, sexism, homophobia, biphobia and transphobia.
Supporting those with Additional Needs
Reasonable adjustments should be taken to enable young people with disabilities to access Scouting and Scouting activities, as far as reasonably possible, to the same level as young people without disabilities. Reasonable steps should also be taken to identify any young people with disabilities within the Group. Discover how you can support those with additional needs by reading more on what the conditions are, learn about practical tips for leaders and discovering further information and resources that are available.
Cognition and Learning
Communication and Interaction
Sensory and Physical Needs
Many young people will require reasonable adjustments to enable them to fully participate in all Scouting activities. By identifying an individual’s additional need and providing them with the necessary support, we can include more young people in Scouting. There is a range of resources available to help you include young people with particular needs in your Group. More in-depth information about some of these additional needs are available in this section. This should also involve working in partnership with parents/carers, to identify needs and support strategies.
Social, Emotional and Mental Health
Inclusion Learning and Training
Find out what Inclusion training is available and how you can learn more about supporting young people.
At the Scouts, we want our volunteers to be able to support young people in an inclusive way which is why we offer 2 core modules to help them in their journey. For further information speak to your training manager.
Our Inclusion volunteer training team are a part of the wider National Inclusion team and are also currently working on developing key training around Inclusion topics. More information to be shared in 2021.
Scouts for SDGs
Our Inclusion Principles are reflected in the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These recognise that ending poverty and other deprivations must go hand-in-hand with strategies that improve health and education, reduce inequality, and spur economic growth – all while tackling climate change and working to preserve our oceans and forests. Read more about these and how to get involved.
