Starting a Scout Network
The criteria for establishing a Scout Network which should be considered include:
1. Number of members
There is no fixed minimum number of members for the establishment of a Scout Network. The viable figure will vary depending on how many people there are in the area.
All parties should be satisfied that there are enough prospective members to establish and maintain a Scout Network.
Consideration must also be given as to whether these members would be better served by joining an existing Scout Network.
2. Effective leadership
All parties need to be satisfied that an individual is available who is willing to take on the position of Scout Network Leader. This position must be filled before the Scout Network is opened to members.
3. Executive committee support
When a Scout Network is established, the relevant executive committee must be aware of the responsibilities that they are taking on.
This could be achieved by running an information evening for executive members.
4. Set-up costs and funding
When a Scout Network is established, the relevant executive committee needs to bear reasonable set-up and implementation costs until such time as the relevant ScoutNetwork achieves self-funding.
5. Appropriate meeting venue
The Scout Network should be offered a suitable venue in which to hold meetings. All parties should agree the level of any charges that will be incurred by the Scout Network.
6. Engagement with the County provision
All Scout Networks should take part in the wider County Scout Network Programme. This might involve advertising events from the County Scout Network provision, arranging joint activities and encouraging members to attend the County Scout Network Conference orCommittee as appropriate.
7. A plan for developing the Scout Network
A plan should be agreed for the development of the Scout Network in consultation with the County Scout Network Commissioner.
8. Special criteria by the County Commissioner
County Commissioners may wish to stipulate other arrangements. One example might be to arrange for two Districts to jointly host a Scout Network.
Districts can only host Scout Networks with the agreement of the County Commissioner, in consultation with the County Scout Network Commissioner.
Specialist Scout Networks
It is also possible that a County may have other Scout Networks as part of other outside clubs and groups, for example, as part of a County expedition club, campsite, climbing club or based at a university.