Rebooted scout troop in need of adult help
A SCOUT group forced to close due to lack of leaders is back up and running but in need of more adult help.
The 6th Hinckley (St Francis) Scout group shut for two years before it was rebooted in February 2016 by acting group scout leader John Ward.
From a first meeting attended by just two Scouts, the group, which meets at St Francis Community Centre on Tudor Road in the town, now has a thriving colony of Beavers (six to eight-yearolds), and a small Cub pack (eight to 10-yearolds).
It is hoped a Scout troop (10 to 14-year-olds) will launch in September. All the sections are open to boys and girls and could accommodate more young people if more adult helpers come forward.
Mr Ward said: “We are fortunate in that we still have vacancies in all sections for youngsters but in order to maintain our growth we need adults over 18 to join us as leaders.
“No experience is required as we can give full training but people must be willing to undergo DBS vetting as obviously child safeguarding is our number one priority.”
The group already has a committed team of adult leaders and parent helpers, all of whom have been DBS checked.
In order to take on more youngsters, more adults are needed, as the aim is to have one adult leader for every eight youngsters, to enable the group to go out on trips and activities their base.
Mr Ward said: “If you think you have nothing to offer, think again.
“You don’t need to be an expert at putting up tents or setting out camp. There are more experienced leaders who can do that and show you how to do it.
“Simple is best. Can you tie your shoelace? Can you use simple hand tools, strike a match or boil a kettle?
“If you can, then you can help our youngsters beyond because when they join us many of them can’t do any of those things.”
Any adult interested in finding out more about becoming a Scout leader or any young person interested in joining the group is invited to go along to one of the grup meetings, held during school term time on Thursdays between 6pm and 7pm at St Francis Community Centre.
Alternatively, visit www. sixthhinckleyscouts.org. uk for more contact information.