Policy, Organisation and Rules

4.1.1.1 Scouting in the United Kingdom is organised in Scout Groups, Scout Districts, Scout Counties and Country Headquarters.  These ‘units’ of Scouting provide:  

1. support  
2. channels for communication  
3. opportunities for youth members and adults to make decisions and take responsibility  
4. functional units through which the design and delivery of the youth programme can be best achieved 

4.1.1.2 A Scout Group must have at least one Squirrel Drey, Beaver Colony, Cub Pack or Scout Troop. 

A Group may have multiple instances of each section, for example two Beaver Colonies or three Cub Packs. 

Some Groups may be Special Groups (see rule 4.5.5). 

A Scout Group may partner with one or more Explorer Units (see Rule 4.2.15). 

A Group may include Group Scout Active Support Units.  

4.1.1.3 A Scout District has several Scout Groups, one or more Explorer Units, (including Explorer Young Leaders), and one District Scout Network.  

An Explorer Unit may be partnered with a Scout Group (see Rule 4.2.15).  

A District may have one or more District Scout Active Support Units. 

4.1.1.4 A Scout County will usually have several Scout Districts.  

Some Counties, have no Districts. In these cases, the County takes on the responsibilities of the District, including the responsibilities of the District Trustee Board with regard to governance of Explorer and Network provision.  

A County may have one or more County Scout Active Support Units.  

4.2.1.1 A section is one of: 

1. Squirrel Drey 
2. Beaver Colony 
3. Cub Pack 
4. Scout Troop 
5. Explorer Unit (including Explorers, Young Leaders) 
6. Scout Network. 

4.2.2.1 All youth members should be offered a safe, high quality, balanced Programme, run in accordance with the Scout Association’s programme (see also 4.3.1.1). 

4.2.2.2 Other than Scout Network, the operation of each section must be overseen by a Section Leadership Team.   

A Section Leadership Team comprises all Section Leaders, Assistant Section Leaders, Section Assistants, and Explorer Young Leaders working with the section.  

Section Leadership Teams are responsible for planning and delivering the detailed programme of their section. To assist with that programme delivery, the Section Leadership Team may call upon the assistance of helpers.

4.2.2.3 Section Leadership Teams must take account of: 

1. the youth programme 
2. badges and awards 
3. the section’s method 
4. the additional needs of the section’s individual members.   
   See also 4.2.3 below, and further information is available about additional needs. 

4.2.2.4 Section Leadership Teams must pay attention to the requirements of safety and to the Rules in Chapter 9 governing activities.  

4.2.2.5 Progressive responsibility for involvement of young people in planning and decision-making is an important element of the Programme.  

Section Leadership Teams must ensure the effective operation of the Drey, Colony, Pack, Troop and Unit Forums. Troop Leadership Teams must ensure the effective operation of the Patrol System.  

4.2.2.6 A District Scout Network Commissioner, working with the Programme Coordinator(s) in a District, is responsible for the detailed programme and projects undertaken by the District Scout Network.  

Members of the District Scout Network should play a leading role in organising projects to facilitate participation in the programme, and where possible, take responsibility for supporting projects by taking on the position of Programme Coordinator.  

4.2.3.1 As required by the Equal Opportunities Policy, young people must be treated as individuals.  They must be regarded equally as members of the movement, whatever their abilities or disabilities.  

4.2.3.2 Some young people have additional needs and require extra resources in terms of appropriate programme and equipment to enable them to develop their full potential.  

4.2.3.3 Section Leadership Teams can request support and guidance from advisers within Districts, Counties and at Country and UK Headquarters for members with additional needs. 

4.3.1.1 The age ranges for each section are: 

4.3.1.2 Under no circumstances can anyone aged 18 years or over, regardless of ability, remain in a youth section other than the Scout Network. 

4.3.1.3 A young person who turns 18 during an event or residential activity of no more than one month’s duration must be treated as under 18 and be subject to all rules applicable to young people who have not yet reached their 18th birthday, for the duration of that event only. 

4.3.2.1 The recommended maximum section sizes are: 

1. Squirrel Dreys, Beaver Colonies: 24 young people 
2. Cub Packs: 36 young people 
3. Scout Troops, Explorer Units, Scout Network: no recommended maximum size 

4.3.2.2 The recommended maximum size for a Drey, Colony or Pack may be exceeded with the agreement of the Group Scout Leader. 

When deciding on the section size, the Section Leadership Team must take into account the leadership available, the needs of the young people, the capacity of the meeting venue and whether it might be more effective to run two or more sections rather than one large section.  

4.4.1.1 Leader in charge. An adult who is a member of the relevant Section Leadership Team, and who holds a full appointment, must be nominated as the leader in charge for each activity or event.

4.4.1.2 Number of adults. For all meetings and activities, Leaders must assess the risk and arrange for sufficient adults to ensure a safe environment for the operation of the section, which may vary depending on the programme. Minimum ratios are defined in Rule 4.4.2.

4.4.1.3 The leader in charge of a Nights Away event does not need to be the Nights Away Permit Holder (see Rule 9.2.2) but they can be.

4.4.1.4 All adults at Nights Away events must hold a satisfactory Personal Enquiry.

4.4.1.5 Only in the event of an emergency can an adult or helper who holds a satisfactory Personal Enquiry be alone overnight with young people on a nights away experience.

4.4.1.6 First aid. The first aid qualification requirements of Rule 9.1.1.1 must be met in all circumstances.

4.4.1.7 The ratios rules in 4.4.2 to 4.4.6 specify the need for an adult from the Section Leadership Team with a full adult appointment to be present.

If none of the Section Leadership Team currently hold a full appointment it is acceptable for an experienced member of another Section Leadership Team, or the Group Scout Leader, to support in the interim. This member must have a full appointment and must be in attendance at each session, activity or event to ensure the safety, safeguarding and pastoral care needs of young people and members are met. 

Such exceptions must be agreed by the District Commissioner on a case by case basis in writing. Requests must be made and agreed in good time before the session, event or activity commences. 

Also note Rule 4.6.1.2.

4.4.2.1 In addition to meeting the requirements of Rule 4.4.1.1, the Squirrel Section Leadership Team must ensure that the following adult to young person ratios are met:

1. Indoor. The minimum ratio for regular indoor Drey meetings is one adult or helper to six Squirrels plus the leader in charge. As a minimum, there must be at least three adults or helpers present at each Drey meeting, at least one of whom must have a full adult appointment with the Drey.
2. Outdoor. The minimum ratio for outdoor activities held away from the usual meeting place is one adult or helper to four Squirrels plus the leader in charge. As a minimum, there must be three adults or helpers present at the outdoor activity at least one of whom must have a full adult appointment with the Drey. 
3. Nights away. The minimum ratio for nights away experiences is one adult or helper to four Squirrels plus the leader in charge. As a minimum, there must be three adults or helpers present overnight at least one of whom must have a full adult appointment with the Drey.

4.4.3.1 In addition to meeting the requirements of Rule 4.4.1.1, the Beaver Section Leadership Team must ensure that the following adult to young person ratios are met:

1. Indoor. There is no recommended minimum ratio for regular indoor Colony meetings but there must be at least two adults or helpers present at each Colony meeting at least one of whom must have a full adult appointment with the Colony.
2. Outdoor. The recommended minimum ratio for outdoor activities held away from the usual meeting place is one adult or helper to six Beavers plus the leader in charge. As a minimum, there must be two adults or helpers present, at least one of whom must have a full adult appointment with the Colony.
3. Nights away. The recommended minimum ratio for nights away experiences is one adult or helper to six Beavers plus the leader in charge. However, as a minimum there must be two adults or helpers, present overnight, at least one of whom must have a full adult appointment with the Colony.

4.4.4.1 In addition to meeting the requirements of Rule 4.4.1.1, the Cub Section Leadership Team must ensure that the following adult to young person ratios are met:

1. Indoor.  There is no recommended minimum ratio for regular indoor Pack meetings but there must be at least two adults or helpers present at each Pack meeting at least one of whom must have a full adult appointment with the Pack.
2. Outdoor. The recommended minimum ratio for outdoor activities held away from the usual meeting place is one adult or helper to eight Cubs plus the leader in charge. As a minimum, there must be two adults or helpers present at least one of whom must have a full adult appointment with the Pack.
3. Nights away. The recommended minimum ratio for nights away experiences, is one adult or helper to eight Cubs plus the leader in charge. However, as a minimum, there must be two adults or helpers present overnight, at least one of whom must have a full adult appointment with the Pack.

4.4.5.1 In addition to meeting the requirements of Rule 4.4.1.1, the Scout Section Leadership Team must ensure that the following adult to young person ratios are met:

1. Indoor. There is no recommended minimum ratio for regular indoor  Troop meetings but there must be at least two adults or helpers  present at each Troop meeting at least one of whom must have a full adult appointment with the Troop.  
2. Outdoor. The recommended minimum ratio for outdoor activities held away from the usual meeting place is one adult or helper to 12 Scouts. As a minimum, there must be two adults or helpers present at least one of whom must have a full adult appointment with the Troop.  
3. Nights away. The recommended minimum ratio for nights away experiences is one adult to 12 Scouts. However, as a minimum, there must be two adults or helpers present overnight, at least one of whom must have a full adult appointment with the Troop.  

4.4.6.1 In addition to meeting the requirements of Rule 4.4.1.1, the Explorer Section Leadership Team must ensure that the following adult to young person ratios are met:

1. Indoor. There is no recommended minimum ratio for regular indoor Unit meetings but there must be at least two adults or helpers present at each Unit meeting, at least one of whom must have a full adult appointment with the Unit.  
2. Outdoor.  There is no recommended minimum ratio for outdoor activities held away from the usual meeting place. As a minimum here must be two adults or helpers present at least one of whom must have a full adult appointment with the Unit.
3. Nights away.  There is no recommended minimum ratio for nights away experiences. However, as a minimum, there must be two adults or helpers present overnight, at least one of whom must have a full adult appointment with the Unit.  

4.5.1.1 There are Top Awards for each section, with criteria specified by UK Headquarters. 

The sectional requirements for awards and badges are linked here: 

Squirrels 

Beavers

Cubs

Scouts

Explorers

4.5.2.1 The King’s Scout Award is the highest Top Award available. It is available for Explorers who have reached their 16th birthday and for Scout Network members. 

4.5.2.2 On completion of the Award, UK Headquarters must be notified and the badge and certificate will be sent to the relevant King’s Scout Award Coordinator to arrange presentation or, if none appointed, to the relevant Commissioner. SV 

4.5.2.3 Award details 

4.5.3.1 The Explorer Belt is designed to enable Explorers, Scout Network members and members of the Senior section of Girlguiding aged 16 or over, working as a team, to plan, train for and undertake their own expedition abroad. If aged 16–18 years old, they may only participate in an organised expedition supported by an in-country leadership team, rather than being self-led. 

4.5.3.2 The young person must register with UK Headquarters to begin working on the award and will then be assigned a mentor locally. On completion of the award, UK Headquarters must be notified and the badge and certificate will be sent to the relevant Commissioner. 

4.5.3.3 Award details 

4.5.4.1 The Scouts of the World Award aims to encourage Scout Network members with their personal development and development of life skills as well as to support projects within society, locally, nationally and globally. 

4.5.4.2 Scout Network members must join the project on the Scout Network website. 

4.5.4.3 On satisfactory completion of the award, UK Headquarters must be notified. The badge and certificate will be sent to the relevant Scout Network Commissioner. 

4.5.4.4 The award is delivered by members who have been trained by UK Headquarters as trainers for the award, according to the requirements set out by WOSM. UK Headquarters will provide support to those members wishing to become mentors who will support Scout Network members through their award journey. 

4.5.4.5 Award details 

4.5.5.1 The Scout Association is a Licenced Organisation for the Duke of Edinburgh's (DofE) Award. SV

4.5.5.2 Each Country Headquarters is a separate Licenced Organisation. 

4.5.5.3 The County Commissioner should appoint a County DofE Adviser and where one is not in post, the Programme Team at UK Headquarters will resume responsibility for the County as an interim measure. Where there are multiple people performing the tasks of a County DofE Adviser, all of these individuals must hold the correct role on Compass. SV

4.5.5.4 The County DofE Adviser must: 

1. participate in a DofE Verifier Training prior to being given verifier permissions,  
2. participate in a County DofE Adviser Induction within 3 months of appointment   

4.5.5.5 The District Commissioner may appoint a District DofE Adviser. SV

4.5.5.6 The District DofE Adviser must: 

1. participate in appropriate training for the role within one year of appointment  
2. this training should include attendance at an Introduction to the DofE Course  
3. participate in any other suitable training which may be available  

4.5.5.7 The assessors for the various sections of the Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards must be approved by the County or District DofE Adviser 

4.5.5.8 All expedition assessors must hold the DofE Expedition Assessor Accreditation and must have The Scout Association listed as a Licenced Organisation on their DofE training record. SV

4.5.5.9 Verifying and issuing the awards: 

1. Bronze and Silver Awards may be verified by an appointed verifier within the County or Country as approved by the Licenced Organisation 
2. Gold Awards in England, Wales, the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man and British Scouting Overseas are verified by UK Headquarters 
3. Gold Awards in Northern Ireland are verified by Northern Ireland Scout Headquarters 
4. Gold Awards in Scotland are verified by Scottish Scout Headquarters 

4.5.5.10 Each award has a cloth badge for wear with uniform, a lapel badge and a certificate. 

4.5.5.11 Bronze and Silver Awards are to be presented locally by the District or County Commissioner or their nominee. 

4.5.5.12 Gold Award Badges are to be presented locally by the County Commissioner or their nominee. 

4.5.5.13 Gold Award Certificates are normally presented at a reception arranged in one of the Royal Palaces. 

4.5.5.14 Award details 

A Section Leadership Team comprises all Section Leaders, Assistant Section Leaders, Section Assistants and Young Leaders working with the section. Working with the Section Leadership Team, the Section Leader(s) have responsibility for the planning of the programme and the management of the section.  

Explorer Young Leaders may work with Dreys, Colonies, Packs and Troops. 

It is the responsibility of Section Leadership Teams to actively encourage the transfer between sections and maintain effective links with other local Section Leaders and Scout Network Co-ordinators. 

4.6.1.1 The delivery of the section programme is the responsibility of the Section Leadership Team.  

Additional persons aged over 18, including parents and subject experts from the community, may be used on a regular or occasional basis to support the programme delivery. All additional adults need to conform to Rule 16.7.2.2.   

Explorer Scout Young Leaders who are part of a Section Leadership Team, remain the responsibility of the Section Leader and must adhere to Rule 4.6.2.  

4.6.1.2 If no member of a Section Leadership Team with a full appointment is able to attend a section meeting: 

1. another adult member of the Scouts with appropriate youth leadership experience and holding a full appointment (including a completed Personal Enquiry process), not necessarily in the same section, may take their place at the meeting or event 
2. the Group Scout Leader or District Explorer Scout Commissioner as appropriate must agree to the arrangement in good time (at least 24 hours wherever possible) prior to the meeting or event. 

This situation should be infrequent. If that is not the case, the Group Scout Leader or District Explorer Scout Commissioner, as appropriate, must take appropriate and prompt action to strengthen the Section Leadership Team.    

4.6.1.3 For all Scouting activities a risk assessment must be carried out (see Rule 9.1.1).  This risk assessment cannot override the minimum requirements required by the activity rules in POR chapter 9.  

4.6.1.4 Each section should have a mixed leadership team. 

4.6.2.1 Explorers can become Young Leaders in the Squirrel, Beaver, Cub and Scout Sections.  

4.6.2.2 Explorer Young Leaders should undertake appropriate training as described in the Young Leaders’ Scheme. Explorer Young Leaders must complete Module A within their first three months.  

4.6.2.3 A young person under the age of 18 years working with a Squirrel, Beaver, Cub or Scout Section must not have unsupervised access to youth members.  

4.6.2.4 All Explorer Young Leaders are members of a Young Leaders’ Explorer Unit.  

4.6.2.5 The following non-members may work with the Squirrel, Beaver, Cub or Scout Sections, with the agreement of the Section Leader, for a fixed period of time (as required for their level of award):  

1. Members of Girlguiding UK aged 13½-18 undertaking a Girlguiding UK award with a volunteering requirement  
2. Young people aged 13½-18 undertaking the Volunteering Section of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award  

Non-members may not volunteer within the Scouts until they are 13½ years of age.  

4.6.2.6 Non-members working with Squirrel, Beaver, Cub or Scout sections are also required to complete training similar to Explorer Young Leaders, this is outlined on scouts.org.uk and in the Young Leaders' Scheme.  

4.6.2.7 Members of Girlguiding and other young people undertaking the Volunteering Section of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award are not members of the Scouts.  They can be offered the opportunity to join in order to have access to the wider Explorer Scout provision.  

4.6.3.1 District Scout Networks are part of a District’s scouting provision.

4.6.3.2 All members aged 18-25 in a District may join their District Scout Network. 

4.6.3.3 All District Scout Networks are required to be open to all except in special situations. Special situations include those where there are specific cultural or religious requirements for a single sex District Scout Network. (See 3.2.1.2.) 

4.6.3.4 The age range of the Section is from 18th birthday to 25th birthday.

The District Scout Network should provide opportunities for the members to take part in the decision-making process. Any forum or committee should have both Scout Network Members and the District Scout Network Commissioner working together.  

4.6.3.5 A District Scout Network should have a link agreement in place with the Explorer Scout provision within the District. 

4.6.4.1 Members wear the approved uniform with distinguishing badges and scarves as described in POR Chapter 10.  

4.6.5.1 The minimum standard for a Squirrel, Beaver, Cub, Scout or Explorer section is:  

1. operation overseen by a Section Leadership Team  
2. for Squirrel Dreys, three adults.  For other sections two adults. 
3. the delivery of a safe, high quality balanced programme
4. opportunities for the members to take part in the decision-making process. Any forum or committee should have youth members and volunteers working together. 
5. the opportunity for every Beaver, Cub, Scout and Explorer to attend at least one nights away experience every year. 

4.6.5.2 The minimum standard for a Network section is:  

1. Leadership – every District with a Scout Network must have a District Scout Network Commissioner appointed in line with Chapter 16 – Adult Roles 
2. Nights Away – every Scout Network member must have the opportunity of attending a camp every year 

4.6.5.3 The District Commissioner, with the District Team, is required to support sections to reach the minimum standards.  

4.6.5.4 If a section fails to reach the minimum standard for two consecutive years, the District Commissioner, should consider closing it.   

A section which fails to reach the minimum standard for three consecutive years must be closed by the District Commissioner, with the approval of the District Trustee Board.  

4.6.6.1 An integrated section may consist of one or more:  

1. Squirrels  
2. Beavers  
3. Cubs 
4. Scouts  
5. Explorers

The integrated section works together as one section.  

4.6.6.2 An integrated section that includes any Squirrels, Beavers or Cubs should not meet for more than two hours.  

4.6.6.3 The District Commissioner must give prior approval for the establishment of an integrated section.  

4.6.6.4 Members of integrated sections take part in a balanced Programme, make the Promise and wear the uniform appropriate to their sectional age group.  

4.6.6.5 The operation of integrated sections must follow integrated section guidelines.  

4.6.7.1 It is important that young people are seen as individuals and that they are regarded equally whatever their abilities or disabilities  

4.6.7.2 Scout units must make reasonable adjustments to support the full participation of young people with additional needs, disabilities or life-limiting conditions.  

4.6.7.3 The Scout Group can request guidance from a network of volunteers supporting inclusion within Districts, Counties (Areas or Regions), Countries and from UK Headquarters.  

4.6.7.4 Reasonable adjustments should be implemented to respond to the needs of the individual and aim to remove any barriers or support access, by adapting:  

1. physical features such as the meeting place
2. the way things are done such as age ranges, the Programme, routines
3. support provided such as equipment, adapting communication, level of support.

4.6.7.5 What is reasonable for the Scout Group is dependent upon the effectiveness of the adjustment, whether it can actually be done, the cost and the resources of the Group at that time. Similar considerations should apply for Explorer and Scout Network members.

4.6.7.6 Making reasonable adjustments is an on-going duty and should be regularly reviewed.  

4.6.7.7 Note: information and guidance is available to support young people with additional needs and neurodiversity.  

There is also information to obtain funding to support additional needs.

4.6.8.1 A Joint Unit may consist of Rainbow Guides and Squirrels and Beavers; or Brownie Guides and Cubs; or Guides and Scouts who work together in one Unit.  As a single Unit, they share leadership and facilities.  

Formal Joint Units are not permitted between Explorer Units or Scout Networks and sections of Girlguiding, though joint activities are encouraged.  

4.6.8.2 A joint Unit is open to Members of either Association. The age group for a Joint Unit should be in accordance with Policy, Organisation and Rules and The Guiding Manual, although local Commissioners may authorise some flexibility to assist in local circumstances.  

4.6.8.3 Members wear the relevant Scout Association or Girlguiding uniform as appropriate.  

4.6.8.4 All other requirements and rules of each Association apply.

4.6.9.1 Explorers are a District provision and are part of the District structure, but an Explorer Unit may be partnered with a specific Group.

Where no District Explorer Scout Commissioner is appointed, the District Commissioner must undertake the role in the context of 4.6.9. 

4.6.9.2 Where an Explorer Unit is partnered with a Group, there must be a Partnership Agreement in place. 

The purpose of the Partnership Agreement is to help an Explorer Unit and Scout Group to understand the operational relationship between the two. 

Whilst many links will be informal, it is important to have a formal Partnership Agreement to ensure that links are maintained and obvious to both parties. 

4.6.9.3 The District Explorer Scout Commissioner must ensure that the Partnership Agreement: 

1. sets out clearly the links between the Explorer Unit and the Scout Group and arrangements on liaison, the use of equipment, facilities, finances and resources 
2. is reviewed regularly to ensure its continuing appropriateness in changing circumstances.

4.6.9.4 Partnership Agreements are not intended to be legally binding documents so each Partnership Agreement must include the following sentence: ‘This document is not intended to create legal relations’. 

The Partnership Agreement must be signed by the District Explorer Scout Commissioner, the Explorer Section Leader and the Group Scout Leader. 

4.6.9.5 See further information on Partnership Agreements. 

4.7.1.1 The Group Scout Leader, following consultation with the Group Trustee Board, may form a Group Scout Active Support Unit.  

The purpose of the Group Scout Active Support Unit (Group ASU) is to provide a body through which adults provide active support to Scouting in the Group, as identified in the Group ASU’s service agreement.  

4.7.1.2 The District Commissioner, in consultation with the District Trustee Board may form District Scout Active Support Units (District ASUs).  

The purpose of District ASUs is to provide active support to Scouting in the District, as identified in the District ASU service agreement agreed with each ASU.  

4.7.1.3 The County Commissioner, in consultation with the County Trustee Board may form County Scout Active Support Units (County ASUs).  

The purpose of County ASUs is to provide active support to Scouting in the County, as identified in the County ASU service agreement agreed with each ASU. 

4.7.1.4 All adult-only support groups linked to Scouting within the District or County must be registered as Scout Active Support Units.  

4.7.1.5 Further details of the Scout Active Support method of operation are available.  

4.7.1.6 The Group Scout Leader must ensure that:  

1. Group ASUs are supported and co-ordinated, and  
2. Group Scout Active Support Managers are provided with line management either directly by the Group Scout Leader or from a Deputy Group Scout Leader or other nominee.  

4.7.1.7 The District Commissioner must ensure that:  

1. District ASUs are supported and co-ordinated, and  
2. District Scout Active Support Managers are provided with line management either directly by the District Commissioner or from a Deputy District Commissioner or other nominee.  

4.7.1.8 The County Commissioner must ensure that:  

1. County ASUs are supported and co-ordinated, and  
2. County Scout Active Support Managers are provided with line management either directly by the County Commissioner or from a Deputy County Commissioner or other nominee.  

4.7.1.9 Membership of the Scout Active Support Unit is open to any person over the age of 18 years, including those holding appointments.  Those holding appointments will be expected to give priority to the duties of their appointments.   

4.7.1.10 The Scout Active Support Manager leads the Scout Active Support Unit and is responsible for determining the composition, organisation, programme and administration of the Unit.

4.7.1.11 The Scout Active Support Unit must have a service agreement, agreed annually with the Group Scout Leader, District Commissioner or County Commissioner as appropriate, or their nominee.  

4.7.1.12 One or more Scout Active Support Co-ordinators may be appointed to assist in the running of the Unit.  

4.7.1.13 The following minimum standards are laid down for a Scout Active Support Unit:  

1. there must be an appointed Scout Active Support Manager.  
2. the Scout Active Support Unit should provide active support to Scouting in the Group, District or County, as detailed in the service agreement with the ASU 

4.7.1.14 The Group Scout Leader and the District Commissioner, with the District Team, must assist Group ASUs to reach the required standards.  

The District Commissioner, with the District Team, must assist District ASUs to reach the required standards.  

The County Commissioner, with the County Team, must assist County ASUs to reach the required standards.  

4.7.1.15 If an Active Support Unit fails to reach the minimum standards for two consecutive years it may be closed. 
The authority to close rests with the Group Scout Leader, District Commissioner or County Commissioner as appropriate though there must be consultation with the District Trustee Board, for Group and District ASUs, or the County Trustee Board for County ASUs.

4.7.1.16 If an Active Support Unit does not reach the minimum standard for three years it must be closed by the relevant Trustee Board. 

4.8.1.1 It is important that volunteers have clear remits.

Role descriptions can be found on scouts.org.uk: 
Scout Groups 
Scout Districts 
Scout Counties

4.9.1.1 A Scout Group may be registered as an Open Scout Group (see 4.9.2), a Sponsored Scout Group (see 4.9.3), or a Joint Group (see 4.9.4).  

4.9.1.2 A Scout Group must not formally affiliate with external bodies unless it is registered as a sponsored group (rule 4.9.3) or a joint group (rule 4.9.4). 

This does not apply to partnerships between Scout Groups and Explorer Units. 

4.9.2.1 Most Scout Groups have no formal relationship with any other organisation and have a policy of unrestricted recruitment. Such Groups are called Open Scout Groups. 

4.9.3.1 Guidance on sponsoring agreements, responsibilities of sponsoring authorities and agreements with regard to property and equipment are contained on the webpage Community Sponsorship. 

4.9.3.2 A Sponsored Scout Group can be sponsored by an organisation approved by UK Headquarters. The Group will have a policy of recruitment defined in a formal agreement with the Sponsoring Authority.  

Examples of approved organisations include religious bodies, schools, industrial or commercial firms, residents' and community associations and formations of His Majesty's Forces.  

4.9.3.3 In the case of a Sponsored Scout Group which is sponsored by a university, college or school, membership of the Group must be voluntary for the students or pupils of the Sponsoring Organisation.  

4.9.3.4 Sponsored Scout Groups may have a policy of unrestricted or restricted recruitment as defined in a formal agreement between the District Trustee Board Committee and the Sponsoring Authority.  

4.9.3.5 No restriction on recruitment may be made which contravenes the provisions of any law.  

4.9.3.6 The organisation which sponsors the Group shall appoint a person or committee to act as the Sponsoring Authority. The District Commissioner must be informed of this appointment.  

4.9.3.7 In the event of a disagreement between the Sponsoring Authority and the Group Scout Leader, the matter must be referred to the District Commissioner. (See Chapter 16 for further information)  

4.9.4.1 Joint Scout and Guide/Guide and Scout Groups are recognised and supported by The Scout Association and Girlguiding. 

4.9.4.2 It is important that the Scouts and Girlguiding are separate federated charities, with separate Royal Charters.  This means that although joint Scout & Guide Groups are recognised, care must be taken to ensure that rules relevant to each charity are applied, and governance must be handled separately. 

4.9.4.3 Joint Groups should be registered with each Association simultaneously and be fully integrated into the normal District, Division and County structures.  

4.9.4.4 The registration of existing and new Joint Groups requires the approval of the relevant Commissioners of both Associations.  

4.9.4.5 The detailed operating arrangements for Joint Groups are a matter for local agreement.  

4.9.4.6 Each unit within the Group should follow the relevant Association's member programme for the section.  

(Scouting for people in hospital or with severe disabilities) 

4.9.5.1 A special provision may be developed to enable young people with a shared protected characteristic to access Scouting e.g. in a hospice or hospital. Special provisions can be used where it is not possible or appropriate for a young person to access mainstream Scouting 

4.9.5.2 Operations which do not follow the standard age range of sections must be approved by the District Commissioner in consultation with those providing special scouting provision e.g. hospice. Age range flexibility should meet the required standards outlined in Rule 4.6.7. 

4.9.5.3 Youth membership is acquired through making the Promise at an investiture ceremony. The Promise needs to be meaningful for each member and flexibility in expressing the Promise may be required to meet the needs of the individual. 

4.9.5.4 Members may wear the uniform of the appropriate section to which they belong. 

4.9.5.5 The Gateway Award, as an alternative to the DofE Award, may be achieved following the successful completion of the Gateway Award programme.  The cloth badge is worn on the upper left arm.  

4.9.5.6 Further guidance on the formation and operation of Special Groups is available from UK Headquarters.

4.9.6.1 A Scout Group is led by a Group Scout Leader and managed by a Group Trustee Board.  They are accountable to the Group Scout Council for the satisfactory running of the Group.  

The Group Scout Leader is assisted and supported by the adults appointed within the Scout Group in the delivery of the high quality programme for young people within the Group.  

4.9.6.2 Membership of the Group Leaders’ Meeting consists of:  

1. the Group Scout Leader, as chair 
2. Deputy Group Scout Leaders 
3. Section Leaders 
4. Assistant Leaders 
5. Section Assistants 
6. any Group Scout Active Support Manager 
7. Explorer Scout Leaders, Assistant Leaders and Section Assistants should be included if stated in the partnership agreement 

4.9.6.3 The role of the Group Leaders Meeting is to: 

1. consider the well-being and development of each member of the Group  
2. ensure the progress of each member through the youth programme  
3. plan and co-ordinate all the Group's activities  
4. keep the Group Trustee Board advised of the financial and other resource requirements of the training programme.  

4.10.1.1 A Scout District is led by a District Commissioner and managed by a District Trustee Board.  They are accountable to the District Scout Council for the satisfactory running of the District.  

The District Commissioner is assisted and supported by:  

1. the District Team, comprising:  
   • District Youth Commissioner 
   • Deputy District Youth Commissioners 
   • Deputy District Commissioners 
   • District Explorer Scout Commissioner 
   • District Scout Network Commissioner 
   • Assistant District Commissioners 
   • District Leaders  
2. Group Scout Leaders from the District 
3. Administrators 
4. Advisers  
5. the District Scout Council  
6. the District Trustee Board  
7. the District Scout Active Support Unit.  

4.10.1.2 The District Team meets as frequently as necessary.  Membership comprises: 

1. District Commissioner, as chair 
2. District Youth Commissioner 
3. Deputy District Youth Commissioners 
4. Deputy District Commissioners 
5. Group Scout Leaders 
6. District Explorer Scout Commissioner 
7. District Scout Network Commissioner 
8. Assistant District Commissioners 
9. District Leaders 
10. District Scout Active Support Managers. 

4.10.1.3 The role of the District Team Meeting is to: 

1. review the progress, standards and effectiveness of programmes of Groups, Explorer Scout Units and District Scout Network in the District  
2. plan a programme of visits to Scout Groups, Explorer Scout Units and Scout Network  
3. give support and encouragement to Leaders  
4. plan the support of adults undertaking Adult Training  
5. plan any programme of District events deemed to be necessary to supplement Scouting in the Groups, Explorer Scout Units and Scout Network  
6. secure the support of District Scout Active Support Units in the work of the District  
7. keep the District Trustee Board advised of the financial requirements of the training programme in the District, including Explorer Scout Units and Scout Network. 

4.11.1.1 A Scout County is led by a County Commissioner and managed by a County Trustee Board.  They are accountable to the County Scout Council for the satisfactory running of the County.  

4.11.1.2 The County Commissioner is assisted and supported by: 

1. the County Team, comprising: 
   • County Youth Commissioner 
   • Deputy County Youth Commissioners 
   • Deputy County Commissioners 
   • County Training Manager 
   • Deputy County Training Managers 
   • Assistant County Commissioners  
   • County Leaders  
2. County Administrators 
3. County Advisers  
4. the County Trustee Board  
5. the County Scout Active Support Units  

4.12.1.1 The acceptance of an adult appointment involves an obligation to undertake training appropriate to that appointment.  

4.12.1.2 The County Commissioner is responsible for providing and supporting the adult training scheme within the County. 

4.12.1.3 For roles that require a Wood Badge, a Training Adviser must be assigned to the adult by the County Training Manager, or their nominee, to create a Personal Learning Plan, support the adult through the scheme and validate the necessary modules. 

4.12.1.4 Validation is necessary for all modules identified on the Personal Learning Plan.  

Validation is the process where a Training Adviser checks what an adult has learned, and that they can apply the skills that they have acquired to their role. Validation is essential for every training module.  In some cases, the validation conducted as part of an online module, with a validation certificate issued at the end of the learning. 

Adult training requirements are detailed in POR Chapter 16. 

For more information about adult training see The Scout Association’s adult training scheme'. 

4.13.1.1 In order to provide training and support to adults, County Commissioners require the assistance of suitably qualified people to perform the following functions:  

1. Instructing Practical Skills - helping individuals and small groups acquire practical skills  
2. Presenting - delivering specific training sessions which form part of the overall training experience  
3. Facilitating - working face to face with individuals and small groups in a learning environment  
4. Planning a Learning Experience - designing, planning and preparing a learning or training experience  
5. Delivering a Learning Experience – running or directing a learning or training experience  
6. Planning a Learning Provision – identifying the learning needs of an area and designing a plan to meet them  
7. Managing a Learning Provision – implementing a learning plan, monitoring progress and quality control  
8. Assessing Learning – supporting adults through the Adult Training scheme and carrying out validations.

4.13.1.2 An adult must have validated the relevant adult training scheme module before carrying out any of these functions. 

4.13.1.3 For more information see the publication The Scout Association’s Adult Training scheme.  

4.14.1.1 The Group Scout Leader may register, suspend or close Squirrel, Beaver, Cub and Scout sections following agreement by the Group Trustee Board and following consultation with the District Commissioner. The sponsoring authority (if any) must also be consulted.

In the case of closure, the membership of each member of the closed Section will cease, unless membership of another Section or Group is arranged by the Group Scout Leader or the District Commissioner.

4.14.1.2 The District Commissioner may register, suspend or close Explorer Units following agreement by the District Explorer Scout Commissioner, the District Trustee Board and the Group Scout Leaders of the District. 

In the case of closure, the membership of each member of the closed Unit will cease, unless membership of another Unit is arranged by the District Explorer Scout Commissioner or the District Commissioner.

4.14.1.3 The District Commissioner may register, suspend or close the Scout Network following agreement by the District Scout Network Commissioner, the District Trustee Board and the Assistant County Commissioner Scout Network. 

In the case of closure, the membership of each member of the closed Scout Network will cease, unless alternative arrangements for membership are made by the District Scout Network Commissioner or the District Commissioner.

4.14.2.1 The forms required for registering, changing, moving, closing Groups or Districts can be found at Registration Forms. To:

1. register a new Group, use form C
2. change a Group name, meeting place, sponsoring authority or Group type, use form C2
3. change a District’s name or other details, use form C2
4. move a Group to another District, apply to the District Commissioner of the current District using form C3
5. amalgamate Groups or Districts use form C5
6. close a Group or District use form C4
7. open or close a Squirrel, Beaver, Cub or Scout section within a Group, no change of registration is required other than to update the membership system appropriately
8. open or close an Explorer or Scout Network section within a District, no change of registration is required other than to update the membership system appropriately

Once a form has been downloaded and completed it should be emailed to support@scouts.org.uk

4.14.2.2 A Group only exists when it is recorded on The Scout Association’s membership system.

A District only exists when it is recorded on The Scout Association’s membership system.

A County only exists when it is recorded on The Scout Association’s membership system.

4.14.2.3 Close a Group

The District Commissioner may recommend closure of a Group after agreement with the District Trustee Board. As part of that agreement process, all adults appointed within the Scout Group (including all members of the Group Trustee Board, and the Sponsoring Authority, if any) must have the opportunity to present their views to the District Commissioner and the District Trustee Board.

When the registration of a Group is cancelled the Group ceases to exist and action must be taken as described in Chapter 13 to deal with its property and assets.

Charity law does not permit a Scout Group to transfer from The Scout Association to any other body whether calling itself a Scout organisation or by any other name.

Individual or several members of a Group may leave and join any other organisation they wish. The Group itself and all its assets remain part of The Scout Association whose parent body is incorporated by Royal Charter.

In the event of all the members leaving, the District will close the Group and cancel its registration.

In the event that not all the members leave, it will be a decision for the District Commissioner and District Trustee Board as to whether to close the Group or try to keep it running with a reduced membership.

4.14.2.4 Close a District

The County Commissioner may recommend closure of a District after agreement with the County Trustee Board. As part of that agreement process, the District Commissioner and District Chair must have the opportunity to present their views to the County Commissioner and the County Trustee Board.

When the registration of a District is cancelled the District ceases to exist and action must be taken as described in Chapter 13 to deal with its property and assets.

Charity law does not permit a District to transfer from The Scout Association to any other body whether calling itself a Scout organisation or by any other name.

Individual or several members of a District may leave and join any other organisation they wish. The District itself and all its assets remain part of The Scout Association whose parent body is incorporated by Royal Charter.

In the event of all the members leaving, the County must close the District and cancel its registration.

In the event that not all the members leave, it must be a decision for the County Commissioner and County Trustee Board as to whether to close the District or try to keep it running with a reduced membership.

4.14.2.5 The registration, suspension and closing of Scout Counties are matters for the Country Headquarters. This includes their amalgamation and changes in boundary.

4.14.2.6 Close a County

The Chief Commissioner may recommend closure of a County after agreement with the most senior Country Committee.

As part of that agreement process, the County Commissioner and County Chair must have the opportunity to present their views to the Chief Commissioner and the most senior Country Committee.

When the registration of a Scout County is cancelled the Scout County ceases to exist and action must be taken as described in Chapter 13 to deal with its property and assets.

Charity law does not permit a County to transfer from The Scout Association to any other body whether calling itself a Scout organisation or by any other name.

Individual or several members of a County may leave and join any other organisation they wish. The County itself and all its assets remain part of The Scout Association whose parent body is incorporated by Royal Charter.

In the event of all the members leaving, the Country Headquarters will close the County and cancel its registration.

In the event that not all the members leave, it must be a decision for the Chief Commissioner and the most senior Country Committee as to whether to close the County or try to keep it running with a reduced membership.

4.14.2.7 Before registering a new Group or District, the District or County Commissioner and the District or County Trustee Board (as appropriate) must be satisfied that:

1. registration is desirable
2. the proposed Group or District will be run properly
3. suitable Leaders can be found

This agreement must also include consultation with the Sponsoring Authority in the case of a Sponsored Group.

4.14.2.8 If either or both of the District Commissioner and the District Trustee Board refuse to recommend the registration of a Group, the District Commissioner must send a full report to the appropriate Country Headquarters, with a copy to the County Commissioner.

4.14.2.9 If either or both of the County Commissioner and the County Trustee Board refuse to recommend the registration of a District, the County Commissioner must send a full report to the appropriate Country Headquarters.

4.14.2.10 Groups in which a Scout Troop is a Sea or Air Scout Troop may use the title Sea Scout Group or Air Scout Group as appropriate.

4.14.3.1 Groups and Districts must submit the UK Headquarters annual registration and census return each year. 

4.14.3.2 Registration renewal also requires the payment of the UK Headquarters Membership Subscriptions and any District, County and Country Membership Subscriptions payable.  

4.14.4.1 If it is required to change the registration of a Group, Form C2 must be used

If it is required to amalgamate a Group with another Group, Form C5 must be used

Changes in the composition of a Group made by the addition or loss of Sections do not require a change of registration.

4.14.4.2 If it is required to change the registration of a District, Form C2 must be used.

If it is required to amalgamate a District with another District, Form C5 must be used.

Changes in the composition of a District made by the addition or loss of Sections do not require a change of registration.

4.14.4.3 There is further information available regarding Implementing Boundary Changes. 

4.14.5.1 Suspension of registration is a purely temporary measure.  

4.14.5.2 Suspend a Group

A Group may have its registration suspended by the District Commissioner, after approval by the District Trustee Board.

The suspension must also be approved by the County Commissioner.  The County Commissioner approval must only be given after consultation with the County Trustee Board.

In exceptional circumstances, UK Headquarters may suspend the registration of a Group. This must be done in consultation with the County Commissioner.

Suspension of registration may also be a consequence of the suspension of the District.

In such a case the County Commissioner may direct that Groups will not be suspended but attached to a neighbouring District or to the County as appropriate.

4.14.5.3 Suspend a District

A District may have its registration suspended by the County Commissioner after approval by the County Trustee Board.

The suspension must also be approved by the Regional Commissioner in England or Wales and the Chief Commissioner (or equivalent) elsewhere.

In exceptional circumstances, UK Headquarters may suspend the registration of a District. This must be done in consultation with the County Commissioner and the Regional Commissioner in England or Wales or the Chief Commissioner (or equivalent) elsewhere.

Suspension may also be a consequence of the suspension of the County.

In such a case the Chief Commissioner may direct that Districts will not be suspended but attached to a neighbouring County.

4.14.5.4 Suspend a County

A County may have its registration suspended by the most senior Country Committee on the recommendation of the appropriate Chief Commissioner.

4.14.5.5 In the event of suspension of a Group, all Group activities must cease and all adults appointed within the Scout Group must be suspended (see Chapter 16).

During suspension, no member of the Group may wear uniform or badges.

If the Group Executive Committee is included in the suspension, this must be specified and the District Trustee Board will be responsible for the administration of Group property and finance during the period of suspension.

The Group Scout Council will be included in the suspension only if there are special reasons and then only with the approval of the County Commissioner.

4.14.5.6 In the event of suspension of a District all District, District Scout Network, Explorer Scout Unit, District and Group Scout Active Support Unit and Group activities must cease. All District Scout Active Support Unit Members, District Scout Network Members, Explorer Scout Unit leadership team members and all adults appointed with any role within the Scout Groups of the District must be suspended as if each were individually suspended.

During suspension, no member of the District, District and Group Scout Active Support Units, District Scout Network, Unit or Group may wear uniform or badges.

If the District Trustee Board is included in the suspension, this must be specified and the County Trustee Board will be responsible for the administration of District property and finance during the period of suspension.

The District Scout Council will be included in the suspension only if there are special reasons and then only with the approval of the County Commissioner.

4.14.5.7 In the event of suspension of a County, all County, District, and Group activities must cease and all adults appointed with any role within the Scout County and within the Groups and Districts of the County must be suspended as if each were individually suspended unless otherwise specified by the most senior Country Committee.

During suspension, no member of the County, District, or Group may wear uniform or badges.

If the County Trustee Board is included in the suspension, this must be specified and the most senior Country Committee will be responsible for the administration of County property and finance during the period of suspension.

The County Scout Council will be included in the suspension only if there are special reasons and then only with the approval of the most senior Country Committee.

4.14.5.8 A District Commissioner or Trustee Board Committee who suspends a Group must report the matter with full details to the County Commissioner.

They must also notify the County Secretary, the Sponsoring Authority and the appropriate Country Headquarters.

4.14.5.9 A County Commissioner or County Trustee Board who suspends a District must report the matter with full details to the Country Headquarters.

The County Secretary must report the circumstances as soon as possible to the County Trustee Board.

4.14.5.10 The Chief Commissioner and Country Committee which suspends a County must report the matter with full details to UK Headquarters.

4.14.5.11 The District or County Commissioner should consult their Country Headquarters as to how best to resolve the underlying problem which led to the suspension.

The Chief Commissioner should consult UK Headquarters as to how best to resolve the underlying problem which led to the suspension.

4.14.6.1 Suspension of registration is a purely temporary measure.  

4.14.6.2 An Explorer Scout Unit may be suspended by the District Commissioner in consultation with the District Trustee Board and District Explorer Scout Commissioner  

4.14.6.3 Suspension may also be a consequence of the suspension of the District.

In such a case the County Commissioner may direct that Explorer Scout Units will not be suspended but attached to a neighbouring District or to the County as appropriate.  

4.14.6.4 In the event of suspension all Explorer Scout Unit activities must cease and all Unit leadership team members are automatically suspended as if each were individually suspended.  

4.14.6.5 During suspension no member of the Explorer Scout Unit may wear uniform or badges.  

4.14.6.6 A District Commissioner who suspends a Explorer Scout Unit must report the matter with full details to the County Commissioner.  

4.14.7.1 Suspension of registration is a purely temporary measure.  

4.14.7.2 A District Scout Network may be suspended by the District Commissioner in consultation with the District Trustee Board and the District Scout Network Commissioner and reported to the Assistant County Commissioner Scout Network.  

4.14.7.3 Suspension may also be the consequence of the suspension of the District.  

In such a case the County Commissioner may direct that the District Scout Network will not be suspended but attached to a neighbouring District or to the County as appropriate. SV

4.14.7.4 Suspension may also be a consequence of the suspension of the County. In such a case the County Commissioner may direct that Scout Network members will not be suspended but attached to a District or neighbouring County as appropriate. 

4.14.7.5 In the event of suspension all District Scout Network activities must cease and all members of the District Scout Network are automatically suspended as if each were individually suspended.  

4.14.7.6 During suspension no member of the District Scout Network may wear uniform or badges.  

4.14.7.7 A District Commissioner who suspends a District Scout Network must report the matter with full details to the County Commissioner.