Scouting for Help

For the past four years, 3rd Totnes Sea Scouts has been giving local children the chance to build confidence, develop new skills and experience adventure, from kayaking on the River Dart and camping on Dartmoor to making friendships, working together and taking part in community activities.

Today, the group supports around 50 young people across Cubs and Scouts sessions on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. But demand is high, with 91 local children currently on the waiting list to join.

Without more adult volunteers, the group may struggle to continue offering sessions and create spaces for the many children eager to join.

3rd Totnes Sea Scouts is now appealing for new volunteers from across the community. Help can be as little as a one off session or a more regular monthly commitment and no previous Scouting experience is needed. Training and support are provided, and volunteers find it just as rewarding as the young people do.

Volunteering can be so beneficial for all involved, an adult volunteer said; “it’s always a highlight leading the Cub group for a session every few weeks. I started as a helper and tried out leading, it’s given me confidence and as an extra bonus this has aided my career and work life massively as well. The Scouting Association provides training”.

The group would also love to hear from anyone willing to share a skill or hobby through a one-off session, whether that’s first aid, art, crafts, music, outdoor skills or simply enthusiasm and time.

Group Scout Leader Ben said: “You don’t need to be an expert to help. We’re just looking for kind, community-minded people who want to make a difference to local children. Even a small amount of time can have a huge impact.”

Anyone interested in volunteering or finding out more is encouraged to get in touch with 3rd Totnes Sea Scouts via the Group Scout Leader Ben: scouts@3rdtotnesseascouts.org.uk