SCOUT groups in Worcester are appealing to the public for volunteers.

Scouts Hereford & Worcester are finally going back to face-to-face activities. However,with the pandemic affecting the number of volunteers, the Scouts are appealing to the public for adult volunteers.

Meg Williams, Growth and Development Officer for the Scouts said, “Covid-19 has obviously affected how Scout groups can meet and run.”Since the end of March, groups around the county have been returning to face-to-face activities. She added, “Most of our groups have been very resourceful and transferred Scouting to online virtual sessions. However, we have lost some members during the past twelve months, up to 20% in certain areas of the County.” Miss Williams confirms the Scouts have welcomed financial support from Scouts both local and national, with aid provided from the council and government. She said, "This has helped greatly and seen some fantastic investment with new equipment, repairs to building". She added "Without volunteers, Scout groups run the risk of closing which would have a devastating impact on the young people in that community."

The restrictions easing has meant groups have been able to return to traditional Scouting activities. Harry Bantham-Jones, Youth Commissioner for Scouts Hereford & Worcester said, “Over the past year we have tried to make the most of the situation that we all found ourselves in. We thought it was still very important for our members to still get outdoors and to be active, whilst staying safe”.

Activities involved the children taking part in crafts and a physical egg hunt with QR codes hidden around Worcestershire, for families to find.

Scouts Hereford & Worcester currently has over 6,000 members spread across 9 Districts. All groups have been required to complete covid risk assessments to ensure the safety of all involved before they can return.