Squirrels
9 September 2021
![]() After a two-year pilot project and extensive consultation we’re absolutely delighted to introduce you to Squirrels, our new programme for four and five year olds. Today is the day when we tell the world about Squirrels. There’s a sneak peek of our video with Bear breaking the news below. We’ll share this on our social media channels at 7am today – if you can share it on your own channels with anything else you see about Squirrels from 7am, that’d be amazing #SquirrelScouts. ![]() ![]() With Squirrels, we can open new doors with underrepresented communities. Our pilots have thrived in Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities, and areas of deprivation. They’ve reinvigorated districts, allowing us to welcome a new pool of potential volunteers and families we wouldn’t ordinarily reach. It’s the best of Scouts – learning by doing and getting into the great outdoors – combined with early years best practice of storytelling, routine and play. ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() But there’s no rush. This is a new age range and we’re rolling Squirrels out steadily so that we prioritise reaching the families who can benefit the most – those hardest hit by the pandemic. Over 200 Squirrel Dreys are starting this term, with even more to come over the next couple years. (Commissioner approval is required to get started with Squirrels and join a cohort). We’re also using this exciting news about Squirrels to attract funders and partners to support this new section, and encourage new adults to volunteer. They can get involved through the website scouts.org.uk/squirrels ![]() ![]() It’s even bigger news for the young people who’ll join. After the disruptions of the pandemic, it’s all the more important to be making friends, having fun and finding their #SkillsForLife, at an age and in communities where access to Scouts can really shape their life chances. |