Staying Safe

Staying Safe 

(Published September 2021, replacing August 2020)

This is aimed to help all Managers to fulfil their role and responsibilities in managing and supporting safety in Scouts.

It's the responsibility of all those involved in Scouting to seek, so far as is reasonably practicable, to ensure that all activities are conducted in a safe manner without risk to the health of the participants.

The safety of both young people and adults is important. A large part of this is about being organised, asking the right questions and doing things that will help safety without taking away a sense of adventure appropriate to the age group. This is a straightforward checklist that can be dealt with quickly and easily. Additional support can be found on the Safety and Safeguarding section of our website, or alternatively, speak to your Safety Adviser line manager.

1. Policy 

Read the Safety Policy (POR Chapter 2) to understand your specific responsibilities within it.

2. Your responsibilities within the Safety Policy 

POR rule 2.5 explains the responsibilities different members have within the Safety Policy. Remember there are some responsibilities that all adults hold and others specific to your roles as a Lead Volunteer.

1. Take responsibility for making sure that this policy is being implemented in their area of responsibility.
2. Have the authority to undertake the requirements outlined above, or tasks required to support the requirements. These can be delegated as necessary.
3. Have the responsibility for making sure that the policy is followed - this can never be delegated.
4. When incidents are reported, managers must make arrangements to complete a proportionate review, and learn and share lessons from the incidents (in accordance with Chapter 7).

Managing safety locally

Here are some practical tips on how to put into practice the responsibilities you hold as a manager within Scouts.

Finally, lead by example – if you identify or are notified of hazards and risks, be seen to address the issues. Others need to see that this is a positive behaviour that will help us provide a safe environment for our members.

Don’t forget that working in partnership with the Trustee Board and other Lead Volunteers will help you both in fulfilling your responsibilities.

Risk Assessment 

Use the Five Steps of Risk Assessment or Managing a Safe Scout Premises and see the diagram below: 

1. Look for the hazards, ie what could cause harm.
2. Who might be harmed and how?
3. How is the risk controlled?
4. Where appropriate, record your findings so that others are aware of the precautions to be taken (for more guidance see the risk assessment page).
5. Review and revise plans where needed

All activities must be risk assessed.

See the diagram above enlarged