The Child Protection Policy of The Scout Association

It is the policy of The Scout Association to safeguard the welfare of all Members by protecting them from physical, sexual and emotional harm.

Accordingly The Scout Association is committed to:

· taking into account in all its considerations and activities the interests and well-being of young people
· respecting the rights, wishes and feelings of the young people with whom it is working
· taking all reasonable practicable steps to protect them from physical, sexual and emotional abuse
· promoting the welfare of young people and their protection within a relationship of trust.


The Scout Association's Policy, Organisation and Rules, October 2003

Responsibilities within the Child Protection Policy

All adults aged 18 or over within Scouting are responsible for the operation of the Association's Child Protection Policy.

It is the responsibility of all adults to ensure that:

· their behaviour is appropriate at all times
· they observe the rules established for the safety and security of young people
· they follow the procedures following suspicion, disclosure or allegation of child abuse
· they recognise the position of trust in which they have been placed
· in every respect, the relationships they form with the young people under their care are appropriate.

Note: the guidelines ‘Young People First’ set out a code of behaviour which is essential for all adults in Scouting to follow. The guidelines are available from the Scout Information Centre.

The Scout Association's Policy, Organisation and Rules,October 2003

Further information on child protection can be obtained from:

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