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The Explorer Belt is the challenge of a lifetime that is available to Explorer Scouts aged over 16 and members of the Scout Network. It is designed to help young people develop a real understanding of another country by travelling through that country, working as a small team to complete surprise projects, and meeting local people.

Find out more about it in the Explorer Scout and Scout Network programme pages.

There is a section within 'International Opportunities' which details the current plans for Explorer Belt Expeditions. This is updated each month but should you not find anything, please contact the International Office at Gilwell.

As always, a good place to start is your local ACC/AAC (International) - as well as assisting with the paperwork (it is a visit abroad) they may be able to provide advice or contacts who have recently undertaken an Explorer Belt Expedition. In addition, there is a series of six Factsheets which give guidance on planning and executing an Explorer Belt Expedition; these are:

• FS452030 Introduction to the Explorer Belt
• FS452031 Going your own way
• FS452032 Organising a group expedition
• FS452033 Project Suggestions
• FS452034 Useful Contacts
• FS452035 The end game

The UK Scout Association has a special fund called The Explorer Belt Fund that aims "To assist Explorer Scouts and members of the Scout Network to undertake Explorer Belt Expeditions, based on well planned, challenging and rewarding projects".

The fund recognises the same conditions of hardship as other International funds but aims to support as many expeditions as possible each year. Applications to the Explorer Belt fund should be made on the form attached to Factsheet BP260006. Please note that as the grant form serves for a range of projects, not all questions/information requested may be relevant to your particular application. Please ensure that the form is completed as fully as possible, and attach any further information you wish to be considered.

Please note that grant cheques are always made payable to the Scout Group, District or County/Area and not to individuals. Although grants are non-repayable, it is greatly appreciated if groups receiving grant aid on behalf of individuals could make some donation to the fund at a subsequent date, in order to assist other groups to receive aid in the future.