Volunteer Joining Process

Here's a guide, explaining the step by step process of joining Scouts as a volunteer. After transformation, some parts of the joining process has changed, so below is a clear explanation of the joining process. At the bottom of the page, you will find a link to this process in a simplified, at a glance flowchart form.

This page contains information for both new volunteers and existing volunteers that will be supporting new volunteers in the joining process.

1. DBS Check

Within 30 days of joining Scouts, your Group Lead Volunteer will need to complete a DBS check. This is a simple process that is completed online and you will need to provide 3 forms of ID to verify your identity. 
For existing volunteers completing a DBS Check: Read the guide on completing disclosures

2. Safety & Safeguarding Learning

Within 30 days of your new role, you will need to login to MyMembership to complete your Safety and Safeguarding learning. 
Once signed in to your MyMembership, use the left hand side panel to navigate to Learning. Here you will see all of the learning that you are required to complete. Above this table will be a blue My Learning link - click on this and it will take you to the learning platform page. Click on the learning that you would like to complete. Once you have completed your learning it will automatically update on MyMembership. 
Detailed guide on how to complete learning: Watch the video here

3. References

References are used to keep young people safe and check all volunteers are right for Scouts. In the first 6 weeks of your role, you will need to login to MyMembership to enter your reference details.
Detailed guide on how to submit reference details: Watch the video here

4. Welcome Conversation

Once the above has been completed, you will be invited to attend a Welcome Conversation. Usually, this should be within 6 weeks of joining Scouts. This will take place with your Section Lead Volunteer and someone from outside the Scout Group. This is a conversation where you can introduce yourself, ask questions about your role within your Scout Group, and to ensure that you understand our Scouting values.
For existing volunteers conducting a welcome conversation: How to record a welcome conversation on MyMembership

5. Internal Check

Scouts UK Headquarters (UKHQ) automatically check new volunteers against our internal records to make sure there’s nothing that would prevent them from becoming full members. This process is quick, and both new volunteers and Team Leaders can view any restrictions applied to someone’s membership by UKHQ on our digital system.

6. Declaration

As you have taken on a new role, you will be asked to accept a declaration which will commit you to upholding the Scout values, follow Scout policies and complete the required learning. This will be done via MyMembership.
How to sign your declaration: Watch the video here

7. Growing Roots Learning

Within 6 months you will need to complete the outstanding Growing Roots learning. Again, this can be found on My Learning accessed via My Membership. 

That's it! If you need any help completing your learning journey, just ask your Team Leader.

View the Volunteer Joining Process Flowchart