Frequently Asked Questions

 

 

Do I need a First Aid Certificate?

 

No.  Warranted leaders do a first aid course as part of the leadership qualification and all helpers have the opportunity to attend a course but there is certainly no need to have a certificate before you start helping.

 

Do I need a CRB check?

 

Yes, if you help on a regular basis or go on a camp or holiday.  The CRB check is carried out specifically for Guiding and does not cost you anything.  You will also be asked for references from two people who have known you at least two years.  This is to help ensure the safety of the girls. 

 

Do I get paid?

 

No, all leadership within Guiding is voluntary.  However, there is no reason why it should cost you anything as all expenses can be claimed.

 

How much time is involved?

 

Basically as much or as little as you want.  Weekly meetings are usually between an hour and an hour and a half in length.  There are then opportunities to attend trainings and meetings with other leaders and to become involved with planning and preparation and camps and holidays.  However none of this is compulsory.

 

What if I’m not religious?

 

Guiding is open to everyone regardless of their religious belief.  If you choose to become a warranted leader you have to be willing to make the promise which includes the statement “to love my God”. The wording is my God to include all beliefs even one which is fairly undefined.  The girls also all make this promise.  While all our units meet in churches, neither leaders nor girls need to be part of the church.  Some of our current leaders have no other connection to the church where their unit meet.

 

Do I have to wear uniform?

 

The uniform is one of the things which make Guiding special.  Warranted Adult Leaders and Young Leaders have a uniform which they choose from a range of available items.  Unit Helpers don’t have a uniform but can choose to wear some special Guiding tops.

 

Would I be on my own in charge of the girls?

 

Leaders work together as a team and there are always at least two adults at a meeting. You may occasionally be in sole charge of a small group doing a particular activity but only once you are ready for it.

 

Do I need any previous experience?

 

No, all you need is enthusiasm to help the girls develop themselves and increase their confidence while having fun.  For each age group there are resources and a framework for the leaders to build activities around.

 

 

If you have any other questions not covered here please get in touch