Exciting new chapter for Horsham scouting

For 20 years Scouts across the area have been organised in two Scout Districts (Horsham Weald and Horsham West), but from now on there will only be Horsham Scouts.

In confirming the formation of the new District, Irene Orford, County Commissioner for West Sussex Scouts, said that this was a new chapter for Scouting in Horsham.

The 19 Scout Groups and 10 Explorer Scout Units have the opportunity of working together to increase the opportunities for the young people of the town and surrounding villages to experience the fun and personal development that comes through being a Scout.

Peter Scofield was appointed as the District Commissioner for the new District supported by Anthony Smith as the Chairman.

Peter Scofield said in accepting the appointment that the challenge for the new District is to enable more young people to join. There are currently more than 1800 children, young people and adults involved, but there are many who cannot join. This can only change when more adults volunteer as supporters and leaders.

The weekend before the District formation, Horsham Scouts were out in force in Swan Walk and the Carfax speaking with members of the public about the everyday adventure scouting can offer to both young people and adults.

For many adults working to develop young people and prepare them for the future is their time to shine and putting volunteering in their CVs can make all the difference to their own careers and employment prospects too.

Many Explorer Scouts and Young Leaders were out and about in the town. They enjoyed the chance to tell others about their personal experience of Scouting.

Eve Chatham Explorer Scout and Young Leader said, “I think having the scouts about, actively seeking adults to help keep troops and units going really brought together the family nature of the Scout Movement which I think really helped get people to notice and consider joining the movement.”

Another Young Leader, Adam Sandle said, “It was a great chance to introduce more adults into scouting and demonstrate the diversity of scouting and range of experience scouting offers.”

Alan Scofield, Explorer Scout Leader said, “It was great to see our already diverse youth and adult members coming together to promote the Scout Movement and using their knowledge and enthusiasm to engage with potential future leaders.”

The event engaged with adults and helped them understand the opportunities for them, but of course lots of young people dropped in to the pop up shop in Swan Walk.

They were able to get an idea of the activities that can be available, canoeing, caving, camping, shooting and much more.

To find out more about Scouting in Horsham visit www.horshamscouts.com and to express an interest in joining e-mail [email protected]

If you think you know Scouting think again and contact us to find out more. We Scout….. do you?

Report and picture contributed by Horsham District Scouts.