The Safety and Safeguarding of the young people and adults in our organisation is the number one priority of Stockton on the Forest Scout Group.

As a federated member of the Scout Association we follow the Scout Association’s Safeguarding policy and procedures. These can be found here.

If you ever have any concerns around safeguarding you may contact our Group Lead Volunteer (formally GSL) at gls@sotfscouts.org

Alternatively you can contact the Scout Association’s Designated Safeguarding Team with the information below:

• Telephone the HQ Safeguarding Team: +44(0)208 433 7164.
• Email the HQ Safeguarding Team: safeguarding@scouts.org.uk.
• Emergency out-of-hours: +44(0)345 300 1818.
• You can access the reporting form on our website.

Stockton on the Forest Scout Group are committed to encouraging and promoting diversity and inclusion in our workplace and services to members. This reflects our values of respect, belief, care, cooperation and integrity, where everyone should be treated with dignity at all time. Stockton on the Forest Scout Group will take every possible step to tackle all forms of discrimination, inequality, and unfair treatment, whether it’s intentional or unintentional, direct or indirect.

As a federated member of the Scout Association we follow the Scout Association’s Equality, diversity and inclusion policy. This policy can be found
here.

Stockton on the Forest Scout Group are committed to the safety and security of the data we hold. To operate the charity we do need to collect personal information. To find out how we use this information, how we store it, if and when it is shared and how we ensure it is secure please read the document linked below. PDF Download

Stockton on the Forest Scout Group Admissions Policy

The admission of youth members to the Stockton on the Forest Scout Group is at the discretion of the Group Lead Volunteer, in accordance with The Scout Association’s Policy, Organisation and Rules (POR).

At Stockton on the Forest Scout Group, we strive to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. The following principles guide our admissions process:

1. Age Requirements
   We admit young people whose ages align with those specified in The Scout Association’s POR. Our group accommodates children aged 5 ¾ to 18 years old, subject to the availability of spaces within our sections (Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, and Explorers).
2. Capacity and Waiting List
   Due to limits on group size, we may not always be able to admit all interested young people immediately. When places are full, we will maintain a waiting list and keep parents informed about potential availability. Allocation of places from the waiting list will be based on:
   
   The age of the child (older children may be prioritised to ensure they have the opportunity to join before aging out of the section).
   
   The length of time the child has been on the list.
3. How to Apply
   All requests for membership must be submitted via our online form. This ensures we can effectively manage applications and waiting lists.
4. Transfers from Other Groups
   We give serious consideration to requests for transfers from other Scout groups, based on space availability and the needs of both the transferring child and our current members.
5. Membership Fees
   Membership is contingent upon the payment of the termly membership fee, which helps cover the cost of running the group, including materials and activities.
6. Inclusion and Diversity
   Stockton on the Forest Scout Group welcomes all young people regardless of gender, sexual orientation, religion, or disability, as outlined in our Inclusion and Diversity Policy. We are committed to making reasonable adjustments where necessary to ensure that Scouting is accessible to all.
7. Uniform
   Membership requires the wearing of the appropriate Scout uniform, which fosters a sense of belonging and identity within the group.
8. Behaviour Policy
   Membership is subject to adherence to the group’s Behaviour Policy. All members are expected to uphold the values of Scouting, show respect to others, and engage in a positive manner during all activities. Persistent breaches of the Behaviour Policy may result in suspension or termination of membership.