Go the Extra Mile – A new District Support Unit
The new District Support Unit – The Extra Mile – was launched on 1st July
The initial aim of the Unit, led by Graham King (newly appointed ADC Activities) is to provide older Scouts with opportunities to complete their Top Award – the Chief Scout Gold Award.
The Chief Scout Gold Award can be very difficult to achieve for many older Scouts (13 years and older) because many Scout Troops are not able to offer qualifying expeditions and outdoor activities for a number of reasons.
Graham explains: “In a smaller Scout Troop where there may be just a few older Scouts, it’s hard – if not impossible – for Leaders to meet the all the requirements of delivering adventurous trips for just one or two Scouts. A District-wide Unit which can pool all the expertise and minimum numbers needed for safety is a great way to address this.”
The Chief Scout Gold Award is the Top Award in the Scout Section
Scouts need to have completed the nine Challenge Awards plus six activity or staged badges.
The Expedition Challenge Award is often the most difficult one for Leaders to provide as part of the normal Programme
“Our goal is to provide adventurous opportunities and skill sessions. We are here to help older Scouts with Expedition, Outdoor or Adventure Challenge Award activities.”
What about Explorers?
The Unit is aiming to extend their reach to Explorer Scouts in the future, once the Unit is fully established.
Are you looking for more adult volunteers to join the team?
The Unit structure is very flexible and new volunteers are very welcome. Whether you an experienced outdoor adventurer looking for a ‘full-time’ role or an existing Scout Leader willing to assist with an occasional expedition or perhaps you are someone with no outdoors experience at all but have bags of enthusiasm – the Unit would love to hear from you.
Contact the Team
You can contact Graham and David by email:
extramile@richmondscouts.org.uk