ON March 16, 2020, across the country, all face-to-face Scouting closed its doors with immediate effect, due to Covid-19.

Despite facing the challenges the pandemic created, many Scout Groups were able to "think outside the box" and provide alternative ways to keep the organisation running. 

Here in Mid Devon, adult members really stepped up to the plate and were able to be creative in different ways, to ensure that delivery of an enjoyable and engaging programme, could still be provided for their young members.

In turn, this ensured membership was largely retained.

"Zoom" became everyones friend and virtual camps also became a great alternative to the real thing!

This year in September 2021, all adult members were finally able to re-group face-to-face at their annual meeting held at the Boniface Centre in Crediton.

Scouting has thankfully returned to what is a new "normal", with meetings taking place back in the many scout huts across the patch.

At the meeting, Trevor Waycott, District Commissioner, welcomed everyone back. The focus of the evening was very much one of celebration and achievements during the unprecedented times.

It was also a time to reflect and look forward to a positive new Scouting year. The resilience shown by all during the time apart is testament of how in tough times, hard work, dedication, and working as a team really pays off. 

Whilst retaining the youth membership, it is not always possible to retain adult leaders.

Covid-19 hugely impacted on this, forcing a couple of local groups to sadly close. Currently across the district there are many varied vacancies.

Scouting is enjoyable for all no matter what your age. There really isn’t anything better than volunteering and seeing the impact you can make to a young person’s life.

If you think you would like to get involved and make a difference, please contact Trevor Waycott for more information.

Debbie Richards

District Administrator/Secretary