Scouting is currently active in 216 countries and territories with a global membership of over 28 million.  Two thirds of the international membership is in the developing world.  Hertfordshire Scouts have a long tradition of being actively involved in a lively international programme and taking part in a variety of global events.  All sections of the Movement from Beaver Scouts to members of the Scout Network, the Scout Fellowship and adult leaders can participate in international activities.  The international dimension in the weekly programme can offer many opportunities for young people to get involved in global challenges.  Beaver Scouts, Cub Scouts and Scouts can work towards achieving global challenge awards. 

Explorer Scouts can gain the coveted Queen’s Scout Award and go on with members of the Scout Network to win the Explorer Belt.  Whole Groups or individual sections can participate in the International Friendship Partnership Award.
All the details of these awards can be found at http://www.scoutbase.org.uk/library/hqdocs/badges  and programme ideas for bringing global issues into sectional meetings are located on the programmes online website https://scouts.org.uk/pol/home.do

Many Hertfordshire Scouts travel abroad each year.  In the past, Cub Scouts have spent a week in Paris, Scouts have taken part in the Haarlem Jamborette in the Netherlands, Explorer Scouts have trekked in Namibia and Scout Network Members have been involved with a development project in Kenya.  Early in 2008, two of our Young Leaders represented the UK at the Scouting and Humanitarian Action Conference in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. 

If you are planning to take young people abroad, be it a day trip to Boulogne, or a challenging expedition in Peru you will need to obtain a Visits Abroad Pack from the ACC (International) – see below.  The Pack is full of planning ideas and information on insurance, Scouting contacts overseas and the all-important registration card to ensure good back-up at home.

For help and support on all areas international, please contact:
Mike Aston This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it