LARGEST EVER MEMBERSHIP CONSULTATION NEARS CONCLUSION
27th December 1999
Scouting in the UK starts the new Millennium with the largest consultation process in its ninety-year history. Half a million young people and adults have been asked to take a long, hard look at everything Scouting does to ensure that it remains successful and relevant to the needs of young people in the future.
The review process started in 1995. Three years later the team responsible for the research phase had gathered a wealth of information based on interviews, discussion groups and analysis by MORI of four million pieces of data from thousands of questionnaires.
The next step was to identify key issues and concerns. These included age ranges, activities, resources, traditions and ceremonies, uniform, image and pressure on Leaders. These were then developed at a series of two-day weekend workshops that toured the UK involving young people and adults.
Finally, each of the 9,500 Scout Groups has now been asked to view a video programme setting out the background to the proposed changes before studying a booklet outlining proposals for change so that every member can then complete a four page questionnaire inviting comment on topics such as: -
Age Ranges The Training Programme Activity badges Support Structures Membership Requirements The Scout Promise The Symbolic Framework of Scouting National Programme Initiatives
The proposals are challenging and some are likely to generate controversy but it is believed that change is necessary if Scouting is to provide an exciting programme based on sound educational principles in the 21st Century. They also take into account the needs and skills of the adults who will be delivering the programme.
The last fundamental review of Scouting was concluded in 1967 when the Movement dropped the title "Boy Scout" as it moved toward becoming co-educational, ceased wearing the old-fashioned uniform with wide brimmed hats and shorts and introduced a new Promise and Law. Notes to Editors: -
Further details of the review, the proposals and other background can be seen at The Scout Association's Website http://www.scoutbase.org.uk/hq-info/review/index.htm
