In Scouting, young people aged between 13 and half and 17 years old can volunteer to help at either the Squirrel, Beaver, Cub or Scout sections. These volunteers are known as Young Leaders (YLs).

Scouting UK offers a full programme of support for the YLs and within Harborough District Scouting, this is ran by Georgie and Sue Dove via the Lynx Explorer Scout Unit (ESU) which supports all young people who volunteer as a young leader.

All young people who are volunteering as Young Leaders must be registered as members of Lynx ESU for Scouting insurance and safeguarding purposes.

What to do when a young person expresses an interest in becoming a Young Leader

When a young person expresses an interest then you as leaders need to take the following steps:

1. Share their OSM record to Harborough: Lynx YL ESU (if they are already in scouting) or send Georgie/Sue their details to create a new one (if they don’t have any previous OSM records). This is a requirement for them to be set up with their subs details and ensure that they complete the mandatory safeguarding module to ensure that we are insured and protected. Failure to follow this then the young person is uninsured and not meeting the Scouting UK safeguarding requirements.
2. Young Leader Module A – Prepare for take off – Ensure they complete this module that gives the YL the essential information they will need to perform their ESYL role safely. It will provide them with the immediate skills needed to assist another section, and to understand their role. This includes safeguarding and the orange card.It is expected that this is completed within 2 weeks of starting their young leader role. They can complete the training online or book in-person.

   This may be the first time the young person is exposed to thinking about safeguarding issues. Please ensure the young person is ready and supported for any potential questions or issues they may have completing this before they take the course. The in-person course is recommended for any young person with potential need for extra support. If in doubt, please discuss with Georgie or Sue.

   County: Leicestershire
   District: Harborough
   Group: Lynx ESU
   Role: Young Leader
   The completed certificate must be emailed to Lynx ESU Leaders Georgie or Sue at:
   Georgie.dove@harboroughscouts.org.uk
   Sue.dove@harboroughscouts.org.uk

3. Support the young leader with their missions and further training by getting them involved.