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When the Balanced Programme is used to its full potential it should provide opportunities for young people regardless of their needs and abilities.

Although there is just one Programme for all, it contains a great deal of flexibility. Designed primarily for participation and involvement, it is also much more about young people having a go rather than passing tests or achieving a particular standard. It can therefore be an enjoyable and rewarding experience for any young person whatever their ability.

The starting point must be to identify the needs of the individuals and then plan the programme and standards to meet those needs. As for all Scouts attainable and not impossible goals, should be set, appropriate to the individual young person's abilities. The only exception to this is where there are safety requirements or when a specific level of knowledge could be assumed from holding an award (such as the Emergency Aid Badge). In these instances, best effort may not be appropriate.

If a particular activity within a Scout Group cannot be offered to a young person with Special Needs, it might be possible for the activity to be done at home with the support of parents or carers. If this is not possible, then perhaps the young person's school could offer support. Alternatively another Group or the District may be able to make provision within their programme.

For many years, The Gateway Award has been an alternative for young people unable to take part in the Duke of Edinburgh Scheme. The Award can be undertaken from age 13 onwards and there is no upper age limit. The Award provides participants with the opportunity to complete all three Awards (Bronze, Silver and Gold) at their own pace and at a level appropriate to each person's ability. A Junior Award is available as a separate section for those aged 8-13. To find out more, contact the Scout Information Centre (0845 300 1818).

When considering how to deliver the Programme think of the young person and their particular disability. For example:

• Plenty of short items may be helpful.

• Use pictures or other visual aids, which are easier to understand than words for young people with learning difficulties. It may also make things clearer for everyone else!

• Where an individual has difficulty reading or writing, provide an opportunity to use alternative means of communication such as a tape recorder, an audio programme on a laptop computer, or even someone else acting as a scribe.

• If a young person is in a wheelchair, never use them as a referee or 'goalpost' during games or activities. Help them to participate as fully as they are able.

• Take account of the differences that occur in size, strength and physical ability within a peer group.

• Don't worry if the young person cannot fully take part in all activities, they will still enjoy being part of the group.

Above all else, it is important to provide activities that the young people want to do, rather than those, which adults believe 'are good for them'.

As part of your Section's Self-Review, do keep track of how well your programme is supporting your 'special Scout'. Don't be afraid to ask for help and support from Special Needs Commissioners or Advisers at District, County/Area or Headquarters.