West Lancs Scouts

Dear All,

By now, I assume that you have seen the latest information from Tim Kidd, UK Chief Commissioner explaining that all face to face meetings, activities, events and camps must be suspended until further notice. This decision was taken following the latest advice from Government and in response to constantly evolving challenges.

Impact on County Events
As a County, we have formed a working group to ensure that we are able to respond in a timely and effective way to the changing situation. Last night, we agreed, in line with guidance, to close Waddecar for the time being. We have also taken the decision to postpone all County Events and Camps, at this point, until the end of June. We have also postponed our training courses and will be looking at ways for people to complete their training virtually.

Additionally, behind the scenes, the County and Districts have started identifying ways in which we can support Scout Groups through this period. We have a number of people with specialist skills who will be available to support with advice and guidance across a number of areas. We will communicate more information about this in the coming weeks but should Scout Groups have any urgent concerns, the GSL/Group Chair should contact the District Commissioner/ District Chair.

Our Major Events Group are monitoring the situation in regards to our overseas programme and will be providing specific advice and guidance to young people and adults involved in County overseas trips.

I do want to be clear, we are postponing events, and not cancelling them. We will get through this, and when we do, Scouting will be needed more than ever to bring people together – our events are a great way of doing that. We now have a little extra time to make them better than ever!

A Scout has courage in all difficulties.
That part of the Scout law has never been so important. Whilst we are suspending face to face activities, we are not suspending Scouting. We must find ways to stay in touch with our young people, to help them through this difficult time, to maintain some normality and to find ways to offer activities remotely. The County Team has already started working on this, and we will be sharing ideas very soon.

We must also remember to stay in touch with our fellow volunteers, particularly those who may be self-isolating and feeling lonely or left-out. Helping other people is an intrinsic part of who we are as Scouts. Whether that’s a friendly phone call, dropping off groceries, picking up a prescription or playing games remotely – as Scouts, we look after each other.

Finally, and most importantly, I want to thank you for your support with these measures, and for all that you do for Scouting.

Best Wishes,

Craig Dewar-Willox
County Commissioner