Keeping your child safe

Scouting in Derwentside offers fun, challenge and adventure to almost 400 young people across the District. We are committed to making sure that Scouting is enjoyable, safe and inclusive for everyone who takes part.

As a parent or carer, you may have questions about how we keep young people safe. We aim to provide clear answers through our Safe and Sound leaflet, which explains the safeguards in place across Scouting.

All adults involved in Scouting are expected to follow a clear Code of Behaviour (sometimes known as the Yellow Card). This applies to everyone, regardless of role.

Copies are displayed in each Group headquarters and form part of the training leaders receive. The Code sets out how young people must be treated, and we expect everyone to follow it.

If you volunteer to help with an activity, you will be given a copy as well.

Safeguarding concerns

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.

If you have a safeguarding concern about a young person or an adult involved in Scouting, you must report it directly to The Scout Association’s Safeguarding Team as soon as possible and always within 24 hours.

You should not investigate concerns yourself.

How to report a safeguarding concern

Report directly to the UK Safeguarding Team via the Scouts website or by contacting the Scout Information Centre

In an emergency, contact the emergency services immediately by calling 999

You may also inform the relevant local Lead Volunteer so that appropriate support can be put in place locally. However, this does not replace the requirement to report the concern directly to the national Safeguarding Team.

You can contact the Scout Information Centre on 0345 300 1818 or by emailing info.centre@scouts.org.uk. Your enquiry will be directed to the dedicated Safeguarding Team.

Further guidance on recognising and reporting safeguarding concerns is available on the Scouts website.