Network

Scout Network is the part of Scouting for young adults aged 18–25. It is flexible, member-led and designed around your interests, availability and ambitions.

You do not need to have been a Scout before to join.

What do Scout Network members do?

Scout Network is about choice and opportunity. Members decide what they would like to do and take the lead in making it happen.

Activities may include:

• Adventurous activities – climbing, archery, target shooting, powerboating, paddlesports, hiking, camping and expeditions

• Skills and development – leadership, outdoor skills, first aid and instructing

• Social activities – meals, socials, trips and informal meet-ups

• Community action – volunteering and local projects

• Personal challenges – the King’s Scout Award and Duke of Edinburgh’s Award

• Scouting opportunities – local, County, national and international events and activities

You can be as active as your time allows. There is no minimum attendance requirement.

How is Scout Network organised?

Scout Network is flexible, informal and led by its members. Members take the lead in suggesting, planning and organising the activities and projects they would like to do, based on their interests, ambitions and availability.

The District 14–24 Team Lead supports members and oversees the activities and projects they choose to undertake. Support is available where it is needed or requested.

Network does not usually operate through a fixed programme of weekly meetings. In Derwentside, the Network group chat is the main space for members to ask questions, share ideas and discuss or organise activities together.

In Derwentside District, Scout Network also links with:

• the Explorer Scout Unit, including supporting the transition into Network at age 18

• County and UK Scout Network opportunities

How do I get involved?

When you join Derwentside Scout Network, you can be added to the Network group chat.

Members use the chat to:

• introduce themselves and share their interests

• ask questions and seek advice

• suggest activities, projects or social events

• find other members who would like to take part

• share local, County and national opportunities

If you have an idea for an activity or project, raise it in the chat. Other members can express an interest, and Ian can help identify any support that may be needed.

King’s Scout Award and other personal challenges

Scout Network members can work towards the King’s Scout Award and other personal challenges.

Each participant plans and completes the requirements and keeps the necessary evidence, with guidance and support available along the way.

You can:

• use the District’s King’s Scout Award guidance and support resources

• check the current King’s Scout Award requirements on the Scouts website

• ask questions through the Network group chat

• contact Ian, our 14-24 Team Lead, if you need help identifying the appropriate local or County support

If members would find a shared support session useful, they can suggest this through the Network group chat and see who else would be interested.

Do I need to hold a volunteer role?

No.

Scout Network members are adults participating in the Network section. You do not need to hold a separate volunteer role to be a member.

Some members choose to:

• support activities or events

• share their skills or help occasionally

• take on a volunteer role within Scouting

Any volunteering beyond your participation in Network is entirely optional.

Do I need to wear uniform?

There is no routine expectation to wear uniform at local Network activities.

Members may wear Scout uniform or informal Scout-branded clothing. The organiser will make clear if particular clothing or uniform is appropriate for an activity, event or formal occasion.

Cost

There is no membership or subscription fee to join Derwentside Scout Network.

You only pay for optional activities that you choose to take part in. Any costs will be made clear in advance.

Joining

You can join Scout Network if you are:

• Aged 18–25

• Living, studying, or working in or near Derwentside District

• New to Scouting

• Returning after a break

No previous Scouting experience is required. Existing friendships or involvement in another part of Scouting are not needed to join or participate.

Want to find out more?

For information about Scout Network in Derwentside District, please contact:

• Ian – District 14-24 Team Lead

• Olly – District Youth Lead

They will be happy to answer questions, explain how Scout Network works locally, and help you decide whether it is right for you.

Moving

If you’re moving away from home you can carry on Scouting through the Scout Network (or as an adult volunteer) in the area you are moving to. 

 If you are going to university, for example, you can carry on Scouting local to your university or college.

Another option is SSAGO, the Student Scout and Guide Organisation. SSAGO has branches at many universities and is open to all students at university or higher education college in the UK.