Grant awarded to keep Scouts safe during outdoor activities
Commissioner’s fund invests £1,390 towards new equipment
A Scout group in Corby has received a £1,390 grant to help keep young people safe while taking part in outdoor adventures.
The funding, awarded by Northamptonshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone through the Safe and Sound Communities Fund, has gone to the 7th Corby Kingswood Scout Group.
The money will be used to buy walkie talkies and emergency shelters, helping leaders monitor children during expeditions and protect them from the elements. The equipment will support Scouts aged between four and 14, including Squirrels, Beavers, Cubs and Scouts.
Commissioner Stone said supporting the welfare of young people was a key priority.
“Looking after young people is really important on lots of levels,” she said. “When their needs aren’t met, they can become very vulnerable. We want to prevent that from happening.”
She said organisations like the Scouts provide a wide range of positive opportunities, while also helping to keep young people safe and connected.
“I’m very mindful that this is largely a volunteer workforce,” she added. “Any group that delivers a professional and safe service for young people will always meet with my approval.”
The Commissioner also highlighted the importance of keeping activities affordable, particularly for families on lower incomes.
“Paying to take part can be a barrier for some families,” she said. “The more we can remove those barriers and provide access for young people, the better it is for everyone.”
She added that youth groups can play a key role in preventing anti-social behaviour by helping young people build social connections, confidence and life skills.
The Safe and Sound Communities Fund offers grants of up to £10,000 to organisations that support public safety priorities, including keeping young people and women safe. More than £103,000 has been awarded to projects across Northamptonshire in the past year.
Community groups are encouraged to apply if their work supports the Commissioner’s public safety plan.