Re: A time to tell video (long)
Chris Boardman (keschool@RMPLC.CO.UK)
Fri, 31 Jan 1997 06:46:08 +0000
I am moved by your discussion on this topic. A key leader at our local
county camp site, who was interested in coming to Holland with us and
came to a meeting at my house about the Jamboree, was arrested while we
were away and is now in jail as a result of serious abuse of Cub Scouts.
Our county has reacted to strong press criticism from parents of victims
who rightly felt that a proper apology had not been offered by the
association. Even if you plan as a parent just to help drive children to
a scouting event you are expected now to undergo a police check, supply
two references and face an interview panel! Possibly, rather over the
top.
Anyhow, the video sounds very interesting. Is it in the BSA catalogue
(which a list reader is kindly sending to me), or do I need to order a
copy elsewhere? I think our county might be interested in seeing it,
especially as all leaders shall be asked to attend an 'awareness'
session this year.
Last year, all Scouters in the UK were sent a card to carry with them. I
must confess that my wallet is rather full (with ID cards mostly, rather
than cash!), but the card is in my scout folder which goes to each pack
night. I am sure the association would not mind my reproducing it here:
'YOUNG PEOPLE FIRST'
It is the policy of the Scout Association to safeguard the welfare of
all members by protecting them from physical, sexual and emotional harm.
A code of practice for Adults in Scouting.
Designed for you to keep with you - carry it.
*Code of Behaviour*
Do treat everyone with respect
Do provide an example you wish others to follow
Do plan activities which involve more than one other person being
present, or at least which are within sight or hearing of others
Do respect a young person's right to personal privacy
Do have separate sleeping accomodation for leaders and young people
Do provide access for young people to talk to others about any concerns
they may have
Do encourage young people and adults to feel comfortable and caring
enough to point out attitudes or behaviour they do not like
Do maintain a healthy adult lifestyle
Do remember that someone else might misinterpret your actions, no matter
how well-intentioned
Do recognise that caution is required even in sensitive moments of
counselling, such as when dealing with bullying, bereavement or abuse.
Do not permit abusive youth peer activities (eg initiation ceremonies,
ridiculing, bullying)
Do not play physical contact games with young people
Do not have any inappropriate physical or verbal contact with others
Do not jump to conclusions without checking facts
Do not allow yourself to be drawn into inappropriate attention seeking
behaviour such as tantrums or crushes
Do not exaggerate or trivialise child-abuse issues
Do not show favouritism to any individual
Do not make suggestive remarks or gestures
Do not reky on just your good name to protect you
Do not believe "it could never happen to me"
What happens if ...?
If you suspect a child is being abused:
1. Immediately tell your Group Leader or District Commissioner
2. Record the *facts* as you know them and give a copy to your District
Commissioner
3. Ensure that the child has access to an independent adult
4. Ensure that no Scouting situation arises which could cause any
further concern.
If a child discloses to you abuse by someone else:
1. Allow the child to speak without interruption, accepting what is said
2. Alleviate feelings of guilt and isolation, while passing no judgement
3. Advise that you will try to offer support, but that you *must* pass
the information on
4. Same steps as 1-4 as in suspecting a child is being abused.
If you receive an allegation about any adult or about yourself:
1. Immediately tell your Group Scout Leader or District Commissioner
2. Record the *facts* as you know them and give a copy to your District
Commissioner
3. Try to ensure no-one is placed in a position which could cause
further compromise
You *must* refer, you *must not* investigate.
Copyright The Scout Association 1994
Chris Boardman
Cub Scout Leader
1st Bournville Panther Cub Scouts, Birmingham UK
Contributor, Scouting Magazine, London
Terry Howerton Sakima Group, Inc. SCOUTER Magazine Kansas City | 
