Joining a Scout group has historically been seen as an ‘uncool’ thing to do, but times are changing.
Scouting is in great demand, especially within the Asian communities, with waiting lists of over 350 children, with the current 11 groups that make up the Blackburn district all full.
Abu Hanifah Foundation, Olive Primary School and One Voice run Scout groups catering for children aged 6 – 18 years.
The three groups have grown to be the biggest, and most popular, in a matter of a few years.
Stuart Parker, who helps manage Blackburn Scouts, said: “It’s been incredible to see the growth in the last seven years.
“Scouting is definitely on the up.
“It offers young people routine and discipline as well as an opportunity to try new things, whilst having a lot of fun.”
Blackburn Scouts have recently appointed Abid Saleh as their new District Commissioner. He is hoping to make Scouting more accessible and deal with the ever-growing waiting lists.
Abid said: “It’s an exciting time to be part of Scouts.
“With celebrities like Bear Grylls and Kate Middleton being involved in Scouting, it’s becoming more and more popular amongst the kids.
“There’s no better way to help young people develop and give them skills for life.
“With over 400 children on a waiting list, we now need more schools and community organisations to help us grow.”
The Scouts Association says there are around 12,000 scouts from a south Asian background but many are left on waiting lists due to a lack of volunteers to help out.
To enquire about volunteering or setting up a new group visit the Blackburn Scouts website www.blackburnscouts.org.uk
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