Scouts, Guides, and representatives from the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme joined forces on Wednesday to welcome Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media, and Sport (DCMS), Nadine Dorries.
On the day when the UK government launched its Youth Guarantee initiative, pledging investment in youth services around the UK, 13th Slough Sikh Scouts hosted a special evening of activities, attended by numerous dignitaries.
In attendance was Chief Executive of the Scout Association, Matt Hyde, who said: “Hugely welcome today’s announcement from DCMS on investment in youth organisations including Scouts, which will support greater access so that every young person can do regular out of school activities, have adventures away from home and get the chance to volunteer.”
Funding opportunities like these allow uniformed organisations like ours to provide skills for life to every young person, irrespective of their background. Those visiting 13th Slough were able to see first-hand some of the activities – indoor and out – that make Scouting in our county so special, which is just a small cross-section of what we do collectively across Berkshire.
The group was praised by Scouts’ Head of Policy and Public Affairs Ben Sundell for its contribution to the evening. “So many smiles all round – it was just amazing to be part of such a positive event celebrating everything you do at 13th Slough Sikh Group and the exciting announcement, which is really going to help Scouts to reach even more young people who need it across the country,” he said.
“Your dedication was responsible for making this a fantastic visit. You are all wonderful models of Scouts values, and the group and district are so lucky to have all of you. In all my years working in political relations, that is honestly one of the most positive reactions I’ve received from the MP and their team.”
Several of the young people in 13th Slough Sikh Group reflected on their own personal feelings of being involved in Scouting, and how it can help to shape the world.
“Being in a Scout Group is like being in a family really,” said one. “We’ve fed the homeless, worked with charities, we’ve done sponsored mountain climbs, including Snowdonia.”
Another added: “There are so many opportunities at Scouts; it helps your CV as you’re going into college and university, and it offers loads of opportunities that you wouldn’t normally have been able to do before.”