Diversity & Inclusion

It is important to do whatever we can to ensure everyone feels welcomed, respected and included within our Scouting environment regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, socio-economic status, ability, physical and mental health, physical attributes, religious or spiritual belief, national origin or political beliefs.

“We cannot assume everyone is the same, which is why it is critical that we constantly think about how to adapt our approach to make sure everyone feels included.”

The World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM) defines diversity as ‘recognising people as individuals, understanding that each one of us is unique, and respecting our individual differences’. For us in Scouting, we have a shared responsibility to make sure we include everyone and celebrate diversity of all kinds.

Ensuring Inclusion

The Scout program should always be adventurous, fun, challenging and inclusive. Welcoming everyone, doing our best, enjoying ourselves, having adventures and being challenged along the way is what Scouting is all about.

Through Scouting, we recognise that not everyone is the same, and that adventurous, fun and challenging can look very different to different people. This means the consideration of accessibility and inclusion through adjustments to our approach need to take place to ensure everyone grows and develops through Scouting.

A truly inclusive Unit is one that:

• Provides a space that a diverse range of people are able and wanting to join in
• Enables people to quickly feel comfortable and welcome to be themselves
• Enables people to participate and experience similar personal outcomes
• Is able to maintain the above.