Get involved

The adventures we organise for the children depend on volunteers aged over 18 to lead them. There are several ways to help us offer these adventures. This allows local children to access opportunities to achieve their potential and keep the community alive.

For safety, we always need a certain number of adults at each meeting or event. We sometimes need extra adults for specific activities. At 2nd South Petherton, we believe that each section, whether Beavers, Cubs or Scouts, needs two uniformed leaders or members. They also need two non-uniformed adult helpers. With only a small number of uniformed leaders and other adult helpers, the pressure on them is high. So we look to involve as many people as we can to be able to support everyone in a role as enjoyable as the children’s. Volunteers can choose how and when they want to help. You can learn more about becoming a uniformed leader on our adults page.

You can also find out below about non-uniformed volunteer roles that are important for the Group's smooth operation. You don't need to have any scouting experience. You also don't need a criminal record check (DBS) for most activities. However, arranging a DBS check is helpful. It's free and easy to complete. This is useful if you help with smaller group activities like litter picks or hikes.

As a parent, you need to help out on a parent rota. The frequency depends on the number of available leaders and other adults. It also depends on how much support an activity needs. You will know which sessions need help and can sign up through your parental account on Online Scout Manager. You can do group work with your child in a different group if it makes them more comfortable. Don't worry, a leader will always be there to guide you.

Occcasional helpers

Occasional helpers may be asked to help more frequently than the parents rota. They may help at the odd evening event, or help
organise a day activity at a weekend. You don't need to have any scouting experience. Enthusiasm is the only qualification required.

You will need to complete a DBS background check. Don't worry, a leader will always be there to guide you.

Trustees

2nd South Petherton Group is a charity. A trustee board manages us. The Trustee Board has several roles. These include
a Chair, Treasurer, Secretary, Group Lead Volunteer, and Parent representatives. The parent role offers another perspective in our discussions and decisions. Officially, this role ensures that the Group is managed well.

However, all Board members share this responsibility collectively. We have regular meetings, usually once per term. We also handle many tasks by email. This helps us learn what the board members think without needing formal meetings.

Specific skills

We have other roles that need support. These include finances, promotion, and fundraising. We enjoy welcoming people to share their skills. This could be anything from gardening to tai chi, or carpentry to first aid. If you have a skill you'd like to share, please get in touch.