Re: A time to tell video (long)
Cheryl Singhal (csinghal@CAPACCESS.ORG)
Fri, 31 Jan 1997 11:18:43 -0500
On Fri, 31 Jan 1997, Chris Boardman wrote:
> 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.
>
Most distressing for you, I'm sure.
> 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.
Sounds like an absolutely WONDERFUL way to discourage parent
participation. I certainly would not have offered to chaperone a class
party in the classroom if I'd had to go through that rigamarole. (Even
though I DO have a security clearance.) Yes, I appreciate the concept
behind it, but think about it:
the momentarily sympathetic parent who might be pressured by guilt into
agreeing to drive two boys to the campout (after all, it'll only take an
hour) is not going to follow-through (after all, it'll take MUCH more
than an hour to fill out the paperwork and attend the intereview AND make
the drive itself).
> Last year, all Scouters in the UK were sent a card to carry with them. I
>
> It is the policy of the Scout Association to safeguard the welfare of
> all members by protecting them from physical, sexual and emotional harm.
Separating those three items into three distinct items has always
bothered me. While I _know_ from the background what distinctions are
allegedly being made, I find the distinctions deeply troubling, because
they tend to encourage young people to believe these three ARE separate.
>
> A code of practice for Adults in Scouting.
> Designed for you to keep with you - carry it.
>
> *Code of Behaviour*
Ummm, this is a great idea, and the points covered are excellent, but ah,
as an American, accustomed to carrying money that is about 2.5x5inches --
just HOW big is this card (or alternatively, how small is the print)? <g>
Terry Howerton Sakima Group, Inc. SCOUTER Magazine Kansas City | 
