Croydon (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Croydon’s 1st Selsdon and Addington Scout Group, founded in 1927, has issued an urgent call for adult volunteers as it faces possible closure without support.
As reported by Inside Croydon, the organization has made a public appeal, saying it is “in dire need of Scout troop team members.”
James Gordon, the group leader, has posted on social media that the Scout troop is set to collapse if no new adult volunteers are found.
“Just two years from our centenary, it will be a great loss to the community and the young people of Selsdon. Can you help or do you know someone that might please?”
Adult volunteers who assist the team leader make up the scout troop team. As the Scouts acquire life skills, Gordon notes,
“Team members have the exciting opportunity to help guide our Scouts through their activities and adventures.”
“You may well have an adventure yourself!”
Every Thursday throughout the academic year, the 1st Selsdon and Addington Scouts meet behind St. John’s Church Hall from 7.30 to 9 p.m. Team members have a flexible role, and complete training is offered online to accommodate your schedule. “You will always be working with other team members, so you won’t be working alone.”
As Croydon Scouting was honored for their contribution at this year’s Croydon Civic Mayor Awards, the Selsdon Scouts sent out their appeal.
Councillor Kola Agboola, the ceremonial mayor who dons absurd costumes and chains, presents the honors. The other one, no.
Christopher Dean was presented with a Civic Mayor Certificate of Recognition for his more than 60 years of Scouting service at a ceremony Tuesday night at Croydon Town Hall.
A representative for the Croydon Scouts, who had nominated Dean for the award, stated, “This is a tremendous achievement for Chris and undoubtedly his contribution has positively affected many thousands of young people over the years.”
Volunteers improve the lives of young people, meet new individuals, and become part of a friendly, encouraging group. The chance to create enduring memories and a feeling of community are emphasized as important motivators.
Depending on the amount of years or hours volunteered, several Scout districts and groups provide official recognition in the form of prizes or certificates. These can boost a volunteer’s pride and sense of accomplishment.
In addition, Croydon Scouting received a Certificate of Recognition in the “Service by Voluntary and Community Groups” category for their accomplishment of helping the borough’s youth for over a century.
King Charles III’s envoy in Croydon, Colonel Ray Wilkinson, nominated the prize, which honored all adult volunteers who sacrifice their time to provide possibilities.
For further information on volunteering with the 1st Selsdon and Addington Scouts, send an email to James Gordon at groupleadvolunteer@1stselsdonscouts.org.uk.
What incentives are offered to attract more adult volunteers in Croydon?
There are possibilities for both occasional and regular involvement, and volunteer positions are made to accommodate individual schedules. Any time spent is respected and valued, which eases stress and makes it available to working adults.
Some Scout organizations, like the 17th Nene (The Hamptons), give volunteers’ children a 50% discount on the annual membership fee if the adult volunteers on a regular basis. This can result in annual savings of about £60, giving parents who volunteer a direct financial advantage. There are restrictions, like a minimum attendance requirement and a single family discount.
Volunteers get extensive training, much of which is conducted online, encompassing skills development, leadership, and safety. Employability and confidence can be increased with this acknowledged training.
Additionally, it is marketed as a means of improving mental health.