Scouts is completely run by volunteers. Everything we do for young people – Squirrels, Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers – only happens because adults give a little bit of their time and energy.
That doesn’t always mean ‘standing in front of a room of 30 children every week’. There are loads of different ways to get involved. You can work directly with young people, you can help behind the scenes, or you can support occasionally when it suits you. It all makes a difference.
Why volunteer?
Volunteering with Scouts is good for young people, but it’s also genuinely good for you. Volunteers tell Scouts UK they feel more confident, develop leadership skills, meet new people, and feel more connected to their community. It looks great on CVs and job applications, too. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
You don’t need to have been a Scout. You don’t need special skills. You don’t need to be ‘outdoorsy’. We’ll support you, and you can volunteer in a way that works for your time and comfort level. That could mean:
- Helping at Squirrels, Beavers, Cubs, Scouts or Explorers (weekly or occasionally)
- Running or supporting a specific activity you enjoy (cooking, craft, first aid, mapping, photography, drama, hiking… anything really)
- Helping plan a camp or trip
- Admin, finance, record-keeping or communications
- Helping maintain kit and equipment
- Being an extra pair of adult eyes and ears to keep everyone safe
Volunteers can give as much or as little time as they like. Some people help most weeks, others help once a month, or just when we’re short. It’s genuinely flexible.
What do volunteers do?
There’s something for everyone. Some roles are about being hands-on with our young people, helping them build confidence, resilience and skills for life. Other roles are more practical and behind the scenes, like helping organise events, sorting kit or supporting admin. All of it matters.
If you’re not sure what you’d like to do yet, that’s completely normal. We’ll chat to you about what you enjoy, how much time you have, and what feels like a good fit.
Hear from Scouts volunteers
The short film above from Scouts UK shows real volunteers talking about why they do it and how flexible it can be. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about showing up and making sure young people get the chance to try something new.
Young Leaders (14–18)
Explorers (ages 14–18) can volunteer as Young Leaders. Young Leaders support our younger sections, help run activities and build real leadership experience. It also counts towards top awards like the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and the King’s Scout Award.
If you’re an Explorer who wants to help in Squirrels, Beavers, Cubs or Scouts – amazing. Tell us and we’ll help you get started.
What support will I get?
You’ll be welcomed in properly. We’ll explain how things work, introduce you to the team, and help you ease in at a pace that suits you. Scouts UK has a clear volunteer joining journey and easy on-boarding so you know what to expect and you’re not dropped in at the deep end.
There’s also training and guidance available for anything that needs it, including safeguarding and safety. A lot of it is short, online and practical.
How to get involved
There are two easy ways to take the next step:
- See local opportunities
Take a look at the kinds of roles and helpers we’re currently looking for.
See current opportunities - Contact us directly
Not sure what you want to do yet? Want to chat first? That’s absolutely fine. Send us a quick message and we’ll get back to you for a friendly, no-pressure conversation.
Contact us to volunteer
Want a place for a young person?
If you’re looking for a place for a young person to join Squirrels, Beavers, Cubs, Scouts or Explorers, please also use our contact form. We run waiting lists and usually move young people up three times a year (January, after Easter and early September). Your section leader will talk to you about when moving on is right for your child, based on confidence as well as age.
A quick thank you
We’re genuinely grateful for every adult who gives any amount of time. Without volunteers, young people simply miss out. With you, they get adventure, support, and a space to belong. That’s huge.
