Many volunteers in Kent will have joined the All Members national webinar last Wednesday and will have heard about the ‘bringing everyone back together safely’ framework. In preparation for our return to face to face Scouting, whenever that may be, now is a great time to think about our communications with parents and carers. This is a key area to enable us and our members make a smooth transition back to meeting together, alleviating worries and concerns and ensure we keep as many members as possible in the Scouting family.

We know many Groups have continued to provide Scouting via online means and we would like to pass on our heartfelt thanks to everyone for adapting so brilliantly and keeping our members connected. Some Groups have also been very proactive in keeping in touch with parents and carers and keeping them up to date as things change.

Some approaches that have worked well include:

• weekly emails / letters
• website blogs
• regular social media posts
• newsletters
• online meetings
• phone calls

As we get ready for the return, it’s a great time to have a think about how you are communicating with your parents and carers, how often, and what you are sharing. Have a read of the new framework, discuss your Group’s response and plan a way forward to keep everyone informed with regular updates.

https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/scouts-at-home/getting-everyone-back-together-safely/guidance-for-speaking-with-parents-carers-and-young-people/

Please remember, face to face Scouts is still suspended as the National Youth Agency readiness level is still red.

Do you know someone or a project locally that deserves recognition? Nominations are welcome from young people, parents and leaders and cover a wide range of categories.

You have until the 30th June to make your nominations.

Nominate online at the link below:
www.kentscouts.org.uk/awards

We will shortly be closing the order form for the MAYhem 2020 badges so don't miss out on getting one for all those that took part in the Virtual Event and completed the challenges!

You have until the 30th June to place your order.

Essential Information for Executive Committee Members - Saturday 4th July

Essential Information for Executive Committee Members is for trustees to fully understand their role. The session covers all of the criteria for the module, with the exception of the safeguarding element, which will need to be undertaken using the new online e-learning. 

First Aid Refreshers courses - Wednesday 8th July and Thursday 16th July

First Aid Refreshers courses are being provided only for those with a current and in date First Aid certificate. The practical element is reduced to an explanation of the process by the participants and use of the Life Saver app. Certification is for a further 3 years, with an expectation that participants will take advantage of refresher practical resuscitation sessions made available at County events once face to face Scouting resumes. The course lasts for approximately 2 hours or less depending on numbers and level of interaction. 

From graduations to trips with friends, young people have missed out on all kinds of things this year. We think they deserve something really special – something for Scouts and non-Scouts, all around the globe – so we’re holding (cue big, boomy voice) The Great Indoors Weekender!

Join the UK’s biggest digital summer camp from your living room (or garden, anywhere at home – it’s up to you) on 11–12 July. With surprise celebrity guests, cooking, crafts, music and more, 6–18 year olds will get the chance to have fun while learning skills like giving stuff a go, thinking for themselves, and playing their part.

Get involved. Build a base camp (whether it’s a tent under the stars or a duvet dragged under the stairs), connect with us on a mobile, tablet, or computer, and you’re all set. There’ll be activities you can complete in your own time as well as live events, including a UK-wide campfire.

Worried about missing your favourite TV show or a Zoom quiz with friends? Don’t. Dip in and out of the weekend as much as you like.

If you’re a volunteer and would like to run an online session for your local group as part of The Great Indoors Weekender, you can also dip in and out of the programme, adding your own stuff.

Scouts welcomes everyone, regardless of gender identity or sexuality. To help celebrate the inclusion and diversity we’re so proud of, we’re holding Scout Pride 2020 – a week-long series of online events including fun activities, useful webinars, thought-provoking discussions, and practical training and support, all focused on pride in our values. The event will run for seven days, starting Saturday 27 June and finishing Friday 3 July. We hope you’ll join us for it!

Find out more about whats going on and explore how you can join in here: https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/making-scouts-accessible/pride/