I currently volunteer in Scouting as a Deputy Group Scout Volunteer, a role that keeps me busy supporting leaders, young people, and the wider community. My journey into Scouting began in quite a practical way. I was encouraged to open up a Beaver section so that my son could have a place to join. That suggestion, simple as it was, ended up shaping not only his experience but mine too. In 2015, we opened Wolverine Beavers, and I’ve been involved ever since.
What keeps me motivated is the impact Scouting has on young people. I love seeing them become resilient, confident, respectful, and able to believe in themselves. My greatest joy is encouraging them to try something new—especially things that feel outside their comfort zone—and watching the pride on their faces when they succeed. It’s not just about pushing them forward, though; it’s also about teaching them that it’s okay to say no, to set boundaries, and to have confidence in that decision too. Over the years, I’ve learned so much from fellow leaders, not only in the UK but from other countries too. Scouting has taught me how to embrace challenges, adapt quickly, and find solutions where I might once have hesitated.
Unlike some, my reasons for volunteering haven’t really changed over time. Right from the beginning, I found joy in being part of Scouting, and I still do. Personally, I hope to keep learning, keep growing, and keep enjoying the adventure. For the community, my goal is simple: I want young people to experience what Scouting can give them. That means learning life skills, enjoying the outdoors, and not becoming overly reliant on screens and phones. There is a world of opportunity waiting for them, and Scouting provides the gateway to it.
The Scouting community itself is something very special. There’s a genuine sense of togetherness—whether it’s among parents, local leaders, or the young people themselves. Few places offer the same kind of space where generations can interact so meaningfully and respectfully. Through Scouting, you find yourself right at the heart of community service. One week you might be litter picking, the next helping at a town event, or organising a food drive. Over time, people in the community start recognising you—not just as a volunteer, but as someone who shows up, time and again. And that matters. Especially in a diverse place like Slough, Scouting creates a bridge across different traditions and backgrounds. We celebrate together, we learn from each other, and we build lasting relationships that go far beyond the uniform.
When I’m asked to pick one memorable experience, it’s hard to give a single answer. There are too many, and that’s part of why I’ve stayed so involved. It’s about working together, sharing the highs and the struggles, and realising that the collective effort is what makes Scouting possible. It’s also been a family affair. My children have grown up watching what I give as a volunteer. That’s had its own impact—our eldest has become a leader, and our youngest is already planning to become a young leader. For me, that’s one of the greatest legacies of all.
Volunteering hasn’t been without its challenges. Time is always the biggest one. Balancing family life, Scouting commitments, and everything else can feel overwhelming. The expectations and the paperwork have increased over the years, too, and it can be disheartening that some parents still don’t realise we’re volunteers. They see the activities, the camps, the badges, and perhaps forget the hours behind the scenes that make it all possible. But I’ve learned to manage these pressures, to keep perspective, and to focus on the rewards.
And those rewards are remarkable. Watching some of my very first Beavers grow up, move through Scouts, and flourish has been incredible. Seeing the young people I once encouraged to take their first small steps now confidently stepping into bigger challenges is one of the most satisfying parts of volunteering. It’s proof that the time and energy we put in has a lasting impact.
Personally, Scouting has changed me too. I’ve grown in confidence, become braver about stepping out of my own comfort zone, and learned to believe more in myself. So many times I’ve been faced with challenges that pushed me, and every time I’ve had the support of fellow Scouters to help me through. That network of encouragement is what makes the movement so strong.
Looking ahead, I know I want to continue. My youngest is just about to finish Scouts, but I don’t see that as the end of my journey. I still want to make a difference, and I still find joy in what I do. Maybe my role will evolve over time, but Scouting will remain a part of my life for as long as I can give to it.
If I were to give advice to anyone considering becoming a volunteer, it would be simple: do it. It is rewarding in every possible way. You’ll face challenges, you’ll give your time, and you’ll be stretched. But you’ll also learn, laugh, and experience things you never imagined. Most importantly, you’ll be part of shaping the lives of young people, helping them believe in themselves, and giving them skills that will last a lifetime. And there’s nothing more worthwhile than that.
