Working with uniformed groups

Working with uniformed groups is a good place to start. They are manageable – small numbers, motivated groups to work with. You can often work together with their leaders to develop a programme of activities. They come with helpers to support and are used to working on activities to achieve badges.

Civilian uniformed groups

Groups such as Brownies, Scouts and others like them work towards themed badges which are often linked with developing skills, taking on new challenges and experiencing new activities. It is worth speaking to the leader of your local group to see if there is an activity you could offer them that would help their young people achieve one of their badges.  Examples of the types of badges the groups work towards include:

• Brownie badge finder
• Scouts badge book

You can find your nearest group through the main website for each organisation:

• Girl Guiding
• Scouts
• Boys Brigade
• Girls Brigade
• Woodcraft folk

Armed forces cadet organisations

The cadet organisations help young people (usually aged 10-18 years old) develop new skills, something about challenges and positive approach to problem solving. Their scheme often include volunteering elements or activities which develop teamwork or leadership. It is worth speaking to your local group to see if there are any activities which you could offer that would support their programme.

You can find your nearest group through the main website for each organisation:

• Army Cadets
• Sea Cadets
• Volunteer Cadet Corps
• Air Cadets
• Royal Marine Cadets

Duke of Edinburgh scheme

The Duke of Edinburgh scheme is a tiered programme of activities for young people aged between 14-24. Each level of award revolves around themes including physical activities, skills development, volunteering and an expedition.

A number of the older uniformed groups and cadet organisations encourage their members to take part in the Duke of Edinburgh scheme. It is also increasingly popular at Secondary school.