The Scout Association is an Operating Authority for the Duke of Edinburgh's Award.
Each Country Headquarters is a separate Operating Authority.
The County Commissioner should appoint a County Adviser for the Duke of Edinburgh's Award.
The County Adviser must participate in appropriate training for the role within one year of appointment. The training should include attendance at a weekend course organised by the Award Office and a briefing session with the Regional Office of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award.
The assessors for the various Sections of the Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards must be approved by the County or District Adviser.
Authorising the Awards.
Bronze and Silver Awards may be authorised by the County or District Adviser.
Gold Awards in England, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man are authorised by Headquarters.
Gold Awards in Northern Ireland are authorised by the Northern Ireland Scout Council.
Gold Awards in Scotland are authorised by Scottish Headquarters.
Gold Awards in Wales are authorised by the Welsh Scout Council.
Each award has a cloth badge for wear with uniform, a lapel badge and a certificate.
Bronze and Silver Awards are presented by the District or County Commissioner, their nominee or a local authority.
Gold Award Badges are presented locally by the County Commissioner or their nominee.
Gold Award Certificates are normally presented at a reception arranged in one of the Royal Palaces.
Further information about the Duke of Edinburgh's Award can be obtained from the Scout Information Centre.
