Network

Scout Network is the part of Scouting for young adults aged 18–25. It is flexible, youth-shaped, 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. Activities are shaped by members and may include:

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

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

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

• Community action – volunteering, local projects

• Personal challenge – King’s Scout Award, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award

• Scouting opportunities – 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 member-led and informal

• There is no uniform requirement (optional branded clothing is available)

• Leadership roles are optional and supported

• Members are treated as adult volunteers, not a youth section

In Derwentside District, Scout Network links with:

• the Explorer Scout Unit

• District activities and programme support

• County and UK Scout Network opportunities

Do I have to be a leader?

No.

Scout Network is not a recruitment pathway for adult leadership roles.

Some members choose to:

• Support activities or events

• Share skills or help occasionally

• Become leaders at a later stage

All involvement beyond Network participation is entirely optional.

Cost

There is no membership or subscription fee to join Scout Network

You only pay for optional activities you choose to take part in

Costs are always 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 or returning after a break

No previous Scouting experience is required.

Want to find out more?

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

• Ian – District Explorer Unit 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.