This page was last updated – 07th April 2021
Next anticipated review – 12th April 2021
Scouting in Wales moved to Amber readiness level on 27th March 2021.
This means:
How many adults and young people can attend a section meeting?
There is no limit to the number of young people or adults that may attend an outdoor section meeting. Adults attending a session should be limited to those delivering the session. Remember that outdoor activities are subject to Scout adult to child ratios which differ by section. Outdoor sessions should be for one, individual Scouting section. Multiple sections or Groups mixing together should be avoided. Where small sections may struggle to be viable to operate independently they may join with another section at this time. Remember the adult to young person ratios are different for different sections.
Can we hold an outdoor activity that moves between locations like a walk or hike?
No, outdoor sessions should be held at one specific location that does not change during the activity. This is to allow the location to be properly risk assessed. Walking, hiking, expeditions and similar are not a permitted outdoor activities.
Can we hold a meeting, information or recruitment session for parents/guardians other adults?
No, adults attending an outdoor session must be limited to Scout volunteers required for the delivery of the session only. Meetings of parents/guardians/other adults for information meetings, recruitment talks or social events etc. are not permitted at this time.
Can Scout Network meet outdoors while in Amber?
No. Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers are covered by Welsh Government guidance relating to childrens activities and are permitted. As Network members are 18+ they must adhere to current guidance that applies to all adults in Wales regarding mixing.
What are the rules on social distancing?
Adults and young people aged 11 and over should maintain a 2 metre social distance. Social distancing of young people aged under 11 should be encouraged but is not essential.
What are the rules on face coverings?
Adults and young people aged 11 and over must wear a face covering when unable to maintain a 2 metre social distance.
Can we sing, chant or play musical instruments?
Singing, chanting and musical activities are all considered to be high risk activities, and should be avoided.
Can leaders attend several section meetings on the same night?
Yes, adults can attend multiple section meetings or activities on the same day. They should ensure they are aware of social distancing and face covering guidelines and follow hand hygiene procedures as outlined in your Amber risk assessment.
Can young people several section meetings on the same night?
Yes, young people can attend multiple section meeting or activities in the same day. This includes young people attending both Explorers and Young Leader sessions. They should ensure they are aware of social distancing and face covering guidelines and follow hand hygiene procedures as outlined in your Amber risk assessment.
Can more than one section meet on the same night / in the same location?
Yes, sections can meet the same time in the same location providing the space is large enough that they can be run completely separately from each other. It is worth considering staggered pick up and drop off times to ensure social distancing can be maintained.
Did previous guidance state that there could only be 30 young people and six adults at an outdoor session?
This was draft guidance and was revised by Welsh Government on 26th March 2021.
We’re now pleased to say there will be no restrictions on Section sizes able to meet outdoors. This will apply to all Sections excluding Scout Network. Outdoor sessions should be for one, individual Scouting section. Multiple sections or Groups mixing together should be avoided. You should be confident that you can still maintain social distancing measures. This is not an opportunity to exceed your numbers for a normal section meeting.
For activities with no youth members present you must follow government guidelines for adults.
Some of our young people have 1 to 1 support, is this still allowed?
Carers able to attend outdoor sessions. They are exempt from distancing from the child or adult they care for.
What is the difference between a COVID risk assessment and an activity risk assessment?
COVID risk assessments are venue specific. They cover all aspects of COVID security relating to a location rather than a specific activity. They must be submitted via the COVID risk assessment portal and approved prior to undertaking a Scouting session. Further information can be found here: https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/getting-back-together-safely/
Activity Risk Assessments do not contain general COVID control methods. They are held and used locally and do not need to be submitted to the COVID Risk Assessment portal. They contain the risk and control methods specific to an activity.
Do I need to resubmit my COVID risk assessment from 2020?
If your Risk Assessment for Amber was approved last year you must make sure that that it is still relevant. If it is still relevant and accurate, then you do not need to resubmit it via the portal.
Don’t forget that if there are any significant changes in the way you will be operating, or the hazards associated with your return then you will need to update your risk assessment and discuss with the approver the changes you have made, you may be asked to resubmit it.
Do we need a risk assessment for each outdoor venue?
Try to think ahead about all of the outdoor venues you might be using and include them in your Amber risk assessment. If you plan to use another outdoor venue that’s not already in your Amber risk assessment you will need to submit a new risk assessment
Can all sections be approved for a readiness level on the same risk assessment?
Yes. A Group Scout Leader could write the Group’s Risk Assessment in conjunction with the Leaders of each section. It is then presented to, and approved by, the Executive Committee and noted in their meeting minutes that it was approved, it is then sent to the Approver within the District or Area.
Can we hold an outdoor activity that moves between locations like a walk or hike?
No, outdoor sessions should be held at one specific location that does not change during the activity. This is to allow the location to be properly risk assessed. This means walking or hiking is not a permitted outdoor activity.
Can adults or young people travel outside of their local area within Wales for Scouting?
Yes. Volunteers and young people can travel outside of their local community as long as they stay within Wales. Volunteering is exempt from the 5 mile / stay local travel rule.
Can adults or young people travel across the Wales-England border for Scouting?
Yes. Cross border travel for the purposes of adult volunteering and young people attending Scout sessions is permitted by the guidance that covers both Wales and England.
Where can I get PPE / hand sanitiser from?
ScoutsCymru have identified a supplier that has offered a good price called Gloves ‘n’ Stuff, however local suppliers may be cheaper so always check prices. You can use any supplier. To find out more about the ScoutsCymru supplier please drop us an email: admin@scoutscymru.org.uk
Does a visor count or does it have to be a face mask?
A visor is acceptable. The guidance states a ‘face covering’ not specifically a face mask
Can adults undertake maintenance work on Scout premises?
Yes, volunteers can carry out essential maintenance on property and grounds. this maintenance must be planned ahead of time and have approval from the executive committee. If the work requires more than one person to be present, the volunteers must remain socially distanced at all times and use the appropriate PPE if working inside. Common sense should be applied as to how many people can safely fit into an indoor space when other safety measures are needed e.g. footing a ladder. Lastly these occasions should be used for maintenance work only and not as a social gathering, no food or alcohol should be consumed.
Can we hire our hall out to a non-Scouting activity while Scouting is in the Amber readiness level?
The current guidelines state that community facilities must close (including Scout halls) unless the activity being undertaken meets the exemption criteria for public service, childcare or support groups. Please check up to date Welsh Government guidelines for clarity when making a decision.
If an activity is exempt, then it is acceptable for a Group Exec to allow a Scout hall to be used even if it is unable to be used for Scouting purposes.
For more information please see: https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/getting-back-together-safely/keeping-our-buildings-safe-and-secure/
Why are ScoutsCymru not giving more notice of changes or clearer information?
The speed and content of guidance provided by ScoutsCymru is limited by the information provided by Welsh Government. We are working closely with Welsh Government to obtain clear information as quickly as possible and challenge guidance that makes Scouting more difficult to deliver effectively.
My GSL / DC / AC says I have to take everyone’s temperature, but the Scouting guidelines say this isn’t necessary. What should I do?
You are not required to take temperatures. We are not providing training on this and thermometers require regular calibration. There are also lots of reasons that young people may have a raised temperature such as regular coughs and colds or exercise.
AGM: Do we need one? Can we have it online?
AGMs can be held online. If you need to delay your AGM you will need to notify the Charity Commission if you’re registered (or notify your DC if you’re not registered)
See more in POR Chapter 3, 23
It is hoped that Wales will move to the Yellow readiness level on 22nd April 2021. Indoor Scouting activities will be permitted. Further information will be added to assist planning in coming weeks.