Scout Group has nearly doubled in numbers
Did you know that the number of young people aged 4 to 17 involved with 171st Birmingham has increased by over 81% in the last two years?
Recent census figures show that Beavers (ages 6 to 8) have grown by nearly 28%, Scouts (ages 10 to 14) have more than doubled and Explorers (ages 14 to 17) have grown almost threefold. The Group has also opened a Squirrels Drey (ages 4 to 6) to manage local demand.
Volunteer Peter said, “The number of young people joining is testament to the brilliant programmes run by volunteers. The young people go so school or college, tell their friends what they have been doing and that has attracted more young people. Peter added, “We are a sea Scout Troop and lots of our activities are based on Powell’s Pool. We spend a lot of our time kayaking, paddle boarding, sailing and canoeing.
The Scout Group meets at their HQ in Stonehouse Road, B73 6LJ
Scouting provides over 250 activities ranging from air activities to cooking, emergency aid to global issues and pioneering to water activities. In a recent report, Stephanie Simmons gave twelve reasons why joining Scouts helps with a child’s development. These included, builds confidence and self-esteem, promotes outdoor skills, enhances social skills, provides a safe environment and offers adventure and fun.
Peter added, due to the increase in numbers, we are looking for more volunteers. This could be working with any of the sections or a role in the background. This could be with fundraising, trustee, administration, IT or just helping when needed.” Getting more volunteers to be involved with the sections would mean that we could open another section to manage the demand for places.
Volunteer Nigel said, “Young people can learn skills for life. These include commitment, communication, independence, leadership, problem solving, resilience, responsibility, self-confidence, social skills and teamwork. Scouts is a great place to learn, but in a non-formal environment. Explorer Scouts will learn and develop skills that will help them with applications for apprenticeships, college, employment and university.”
Volunteer Abena said, “Volunteering with Scouts is a great opportunity to help young people learn and develop skills along with having fun and trying out new activities. It’s also a great opportunity to learn and develop new skills yourself, make friends, try new activities and take pride in seeing young people develop.”
For further information about any of the sections or volunteering, please contact Peter on