Growing Scouting for All: The UCF Project

Over the past 23 months, Scouts NI has been making great progress in widening access to Scouting through the Underrepresented Communities Fund. Since the project’s launch in November 2023, our Strategic Growth officer, supported by our staff and volunteer teams has been working to bring Scouting to new communities, particularly those facing social or geographic barriers.

Incredible Growth and Reach

The numbers tell an inspiring story! Against a target of opening 20 new sections, recruiting 220 young people and 60 adults we have so far –

• Opened 28 new sections across Northern Ireland.
• Recruited 368 young people from diverse backgrounds.
• Had 80 new adult volunteers step forward to lead, inspire, and support scouting.
• Created 3 new community partnerships which will sustain long-term growth and enhance our programme.

This growth far exceeds our original targets and demonstrates the energy, creativity, and resilience of our staff and volunteers.

Reaching the Heart of Communities

The UCF project has adapted to Northern Ireland’s unique landscape by focusing on underrepresented communities, including those from different backgrounds, whilst assisting those effected by rural isolation, community division, and socio-economic deprivation. From Ballinderry’s rural community to urban renewal in Belfast and Londonderry, new sections have flourished thanks to local enthusiasm and partnership support.

Notable successes include:

• Creating new Scout groups
• Launching Multiple new Squirrel Dreys, Beaver colonies, Cub packs and Scout sections
• Creating new Explorer Units
• Re-opening Scout Groups

Innovation and Inclusion

Community engagement events have proven key, school assemblies, open nights, and presence at major public gatherings such as the Portrush Air Show, Newtownards Armed Forces Day and College / University recruitment events have generated multiple youth contacts and dozens of volunteer enquiries.

New partnerships, including Resonate, the NI Museums Council and Concern Worldwide, have produced innovative inclusion initiatives like the NI Challenge Awards, designed to promote understanding and shared community values.

Learning and Looking Ahead

The project has highlighted the importance of local support and communication, especially from District teams working along with Scouts NI support staff. Challenges such as leader training timelines and administrative processes have been identified and are being addressed collaboratively.

Looking forward, the focus will be on:

• Strengthening newly opened sections with ongoing mentoring.
• Supporting developing projects throughout Northern Ireland.
• Expanding collaboration with SEN schools to improve access for all young people.
• Developing and training District volunteer support teams to sustain future expansion.

A Shared Success

The UCF project showcases what can be achieved when volunteers, staff, and partners work together to bring Scouting to every corner of Northern Ireland. From small beginnings to thriving units, the message is clear – If we Scout together the future is Scouting growing, being more inclusive, and stronger than ever.

– Paul Meikle (Former NI Strategic Growth Officer)