Bognor Scouts in crisis over adult leader shortage

The list of hopefuls has reached a record length because of the lack of those willing to take charge of a group of Beavers, Cubs and Scouts.

Last year's publicity about the international movement's centenary caused a surge in the number of young people wanting to join.

But that was not matched by a big enough rise in adults seeking to take part in the activities as well.

Bognor district commissioner Vicky Hennessy said another ten leaders in addition to the existing 64 were needed to cope with the increased interest.

"We've got the meetings, we've got the room and we've got the groups to take all those who want to join the Scouts around Bognor," she stated.

"But what we don't have are the adult leaders. Some of those on the waiting list have had their names put down at the age of four by their parents to enable them to join the Beavers at six.

"Others will have to wait so long they will not be able to join the Beavers at all because we just can't accommodate them."

She said five leaders were taken on during 2007 as a result of the interest from the centenary.

But that was not enough to keep pace with the additional potential recruits.

"It's really satisfying being a leader," explained Mrs Hennessy. "I used to get a real pleasure in seeing children change.

"They would often join the group all shy and with a lack of confidence.

"But, within a term, they would have really come out of their shells. Their parents and their schools would be saying to us that could see the difference in the children.

"Being in the Scouts enables them to mix with other children away from school.

"They would soon make friends and have the space and the time to do the things they want."

There was also satisfaction in seeing young people overcome challenges, such as tackling climbing walls, which they thought would be beyond them.

Becoming a leader required no previous Scouting experience, she explained.

All the training and the uniforms were provided for free.

The training could also be fitted around workplace training for those who received it to make it more relevant to their lives, she added.

More details from Mrs Hennessy on 01243 864124.