Families from Swansea’s Chinese community were warmly welcomed to a Scouts open day in Sketty as new adult volunteers were formally recognised by the High Sheriff of West Glamorgan.
The event, supported by ScoutsCymru’s Scouting Support Team and local volunteers, marked the end of the half-term break during the Spring Festival period. Children and parents had the opportunity to try activities, meet leaders and learn more about what Scouting offers young people across Wales.
A highlight of the day was the presentation of the High Sheriff’s Welcome to Scouting badge to two new volunteers who recently stepped forward to support the local group.
🏅 Gabriella, a student at Swansea University training to become an English teacher
🏅 Tom, graduating this year in International Relations
Both began volunteering following the launch of the High Sheriff’s badge initiative at the end of last year.
Since its introduction, more than 30 new adult volunteers have joined Scouting in West Glamorgan alone.
Speaking at the event, the High Sheriff of West Glamorgan said:
“After the pandemic, many Scout groups saw a significant drop in volunteers and leaders. Some risked closure, while others developed waiting lists because they simply didn’t have enough adults to support the number of young people wanting to join.
Scouting is not just activities. It is learning resilience, building leadership, spending time outdoors, mixing across cultures and backgrounds, growing in confidence and preparing for life.
As High Sheriff, a role deeply rooted in supporting volunteering, young people and crime prevention, I felt strongly that we needed to recognise those who step forward. Recognition builds belonging. Belonging keeps volunteers. Volunteers keep Scout groups alive.”
The Sketty open day also reflected growing partnership working between ScoutsCymru and the Chinese in Wales Association (CIWA), helping to connect families with local Scouting opportunities and encourage wider participation.
Helen Gough, ScoutsCymru Scouting Support officer for West Wales said:
“It was a real pleasure to see volunteers and community partners working together to create such a welcoming and inclusive space. Moments like this demonstrate what can be achieved when communities collaborate around a shared goal and supporting young people to develop confidence, skills and a sense of belonging.”
Many parents expressed interest in volunteering following the event, and several young people are now exploring joining their local Scout groups.
ScoutsCymru supports young people aged 4–25 and thousands of adult volunteers across Wales, helping them gain skills for life through adventure, teamwork and community action.
For more information about volunteering or joining a local group, visit www.scoutscymru.org.uk.
