Promise, Law & Values

While most Scout groups are individual charities in their own right, we are all guided by our umbrella organisation: The Scout Association, which exists by authority of a Royal Charter, granted by King George V in 1912.


There are some overriding principles that all Scout groups adhere to, so you can be sure that wherever you are, we’re all trying to offer a similar experience, balancing out adventure and safety.

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If your children are looking for something to do that is not related to technology - come and join us!

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The Scout Association Vision


“By 2023 we will have prepared more young people with skills for life, supported by amazing leaders delivering an inspiring programme. We will be growing, more inclusive, shaped by young people and making a bigger impact in our communities.”

We are guided by Our Values

01

Integrity

We act with integrity; we are honest, trustworthy and loyal.

02

Respect

We have self-respect and respect for others.

03

Care

We support others and take care of the world in which we live.

04

Belief

We explore our faiths, beliefs and attitudes.

05

Co-operation

We make a positive difference; we co-operate with others and make friends.

A purple fleur de lis icon on a white background.

Our Promise

After joining in for the first few weeks, young people and adults will make the Scout Promise to become members.


This is the standard promise for Scouts and adults:


On my honour,

I promise that I will do my best

to do my duty to God and to The King,

to help other people

and to keep the Scout Law.


There are simpler versions for Squirrels, Beavers and Cubs and variations to recognise the different faith communities our members belong to & also a version for those of no faith.

A purple fleur de lis icon on a white background.

Our Law

  1. A Scout is to be trusted.
  2. A Scout is loyal.
  3. A Scout is friendly and considerate.
  4. A Scout belongs to the world-wide family of Scouts.
  5. A Scout has courage in all difficulties.
  6. A Scout makes good use of time and is careful of possessions and property.
  7. A Scout has self-respect and respect for others.


The World Scout Membership Badge


The purple membership badge is worn by all young people and leaders worldwide who have made their promise- that’s over 31 million Scouts in 216 countries & territories!

A purple scout badge with a white fleur de lis in a circle.

It is steeped in symbolic meaning


  • Arrowhead: chosen by Baden Powell to point the way to service (duty to God) and unity
  • 2 “arms” of the fleur-de-lys: service to others and obedience to the Scout law
  • 2 five point stars: truth and knowledge, the 10 points in total represent the original 10 Scout laws
  • Binding round the fleur-de-lys: the bond showing the family of Scouting
  • Encircling rope: the unity and family of the World Scout Movement
  • Reef knot: knot which can’t be pulled apart represents the strength of the strength and unity of world scouting
  • Colours: white represents purity, purple denotes leadership and service.