Group Secretary

Who we are...

Scouting in the UK is organised through The Scout Association. Its purpose is to help young people, aged 6-25 years old, achieve their full physical, intellectual, social and spiritual potential as individuals, as responsible citizens and as members of their local, national and international communities. With 400,000 members in the UK, Scouting is the largest mixed youth organisation in the country. Adult volunteers must follow the policies of The Scout Association, which can be found on our webpage:

When we need help...

This is a role that can be done at any time, but usually requires availability for up to six evenings per year.

Short description…

Greater London South West Scouts are looking for adults to help support Scouting for boys and girls in their Scout Groups based across Richmond, Twickenham, Croydon, Kingston, Tolworth, Mitcham, Wimbledon, Morden, Teddington, Hampton, Purley, Sutton, Wallington, Carshalton, Cheam, Worcester Park and surrounding areas. To assist the Group Chairperson by attending, and taking minutes of executive and trustee meetings. The trustees are responsible for the management of the finance and resources of the charity.

Outline...

The Group Secretary attends the Scout Group Executive Committee meetings (the Group's Trustees), the main responsibilities include minuting these meetings and ensuring that these are then circulated as appropriate. Work with the Group volunteer manager to ensure that the annual census is accurately completed. It is also import to maintain effective communication with the rest of the executive committee and the District Secretary.

As an adult Member of Scouting you will receive:

- a dedicated member’s website and weekly e-newsletter and magazine

- a telephone support and information service,

- ongoing training and development opportunities with one to one support (including safeguarding training)

- discounts on a range of outdoor gear and other nice stuff.

The potential benefits to volunteering with us....

All adults are provided with training and support to carry out their role, and these can qualify you for nationally recognised awards. Volunteering with the Scouts provides you with a number of opportunities to develop yourself. You can gain skills that are useful for your career, meet like-minded people and enjoy yourself all in one go. As a volunteer, you might be involved in marketing, recruiting, raising funds, handling budgets and managing large-scale events. And you could develop all sorts of skills including excellent organisational and communicative skills, as well as the ability to work as part of a team or on your own initiative.

Cause/Interests: Youth

Types of activity: Trusteeship and Committees

What are we looking for in a volunteer?

We would like to hear from people with an administrative, business or management background who would like to use their skills to ultimately help young people from all backgrounds achieve their full potential.

Skills that would be useful

  • Good organisational skills and the ability to keep accurate records
  • Negotiation and influencing
  • Team work
  • Listening and communication

Skills a volunteer can gain

  • Improve your CV & put your skills to good use
  • Try new things & gain qualifications
  • Experience minute taking
  • Personal development, the possibility to get involved in a number of other projects eg. Event management, volunteer recruitment, fundraising etc.
  • Experience volunteering within the charitable sector
  • Meet new people and have fun
  • Become an active member of your community
  • Supported and part of a District and County team
  • Part of a national and international organisation

What type of commitment might be required for a volunteer?

Part time (usually 3-6 evening meetings per year)

Appointment Requirements:

To understand and accept The Scout Association’s polices, have a satisfactory CRB clearance and to complete Module 1 as outlined in the Scout Association’s Training Scheme.

Interested? Contact – Louise Preedy –