Chief Scout congratulates Filey volunteers as they help children "make friends, build confidence and gaini skills"
The first Filey Scout Group has enjoyed an incredible year inspiring local children’s sense of adventure.
Due to demand from young people wanting less screen time and more green time they opened Squirrels (4–6-year-olds), Beavers (6–8-year-olds) in May, followed by Cubs (8–10-year-olds) in October, and Scouts (10–14-year-olds) in November. The team of volunteers have been providing an active weekly programme that provides young people with the chance to dream big, whilst making memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.
In a recent poll 94% of Scouts said they had developed useful skills, 95% said they’ve tried activities they haven’t tried before and 85% said they are happier since joining. Scouts offers over two hundred activities from abseiling and coding to drama and water-zorbing.
Dwayne Fields, adventurer, TV presenter, and Chief Scout said: ‘’I’m incredibly pleased that the first Filey Scout Group opened this year. This means we will now have more young people in the local community making friends, building their confidence, and gaining skills that will prepare them for life and work.
"When I was young, as quite a shy kid, I remember walking into my local Scout meeting place and getting such a warm welcome. I found people who believed in me, and that helped me believe in myself. This set me on a path to adventure – taking me to Antarctica, the Galapagos Islands and even the North Pole.
"What made the difference were inspirational volunteers who became role models for me. I’ll also never forget the kindness and friendship of the other Scouts.
"Now I’m so pleased that young people in Filey will now get the same chance I did – to discover their talents and find their place in the world.
"In Scouts, we’re so proud to help young people step up, speak up, and do their best. But for this to happen, we need more volunteers to step forward.
"As a volunteer myself I know how much I get out of it; it’s great for your skills, your wellbeing, and the local community. And the best thing is that you can volunteer on a flexible basis, giving as much or as little time as you want. No special skills are required – just a willingness to help and a positive attitude; we’ll provide all the rest.
"A massive thank you to everyone in Filey. You’re making all the difference to young lives and bringing people together’’.
Volunteer Alan said: ‘’There are also opportunities for adults to join in the fun. Whether you want to work with young people directly or help behind the scenes as a Trustee, there's something for everyone at Scouts. What’s really needed is a smile, patience, and willingness to share a little time to help others. Volunteers say they get back ten times what they put in – including new skills, new friends, and a renewed sense of the difference they can make when people work together.’’
Meetings take place at St John’s Church Hall, West Avenue YO14 9AU. Whether you have a young person wanting to go on an adventure, or you’re an adult wanting to help create these adventures - contact Liz [email protected] to find out more.