The Policy, Organization & Rules

of the

World Federation of Independent Scouts

 Issued under the authority of the
World Council of the
World Federation of Independent Scouts

WFIS 2007

1st Edition - September 2007

Throughout this PO&R HIS or HIM may be

read as SHE or HER.
 Definitions

Association An organized body of Boy Scouts consisting of two or more operating

Groups.

Commissioner - A Scouter with overall responsibility for the operation of a

District, Area or Region.

Group - An organized body of Boy Scouts consisting of one or more

Sections.

Independent - A Boy Scout Association that is not connected to a Political Body or

Religious Group. An independent Boy Scout Association must be free
from outside influence, guidance, or control, and must be totally self-
governing.

Section - A Beaver Colony, Wolf Cub Pack, Boy Scout Troop or Rover
Crew when forming part of a registered Scout Group. It is
recognized that different Associations may have different names
for these Sections for legal reasons.
Article 1 Aim
The Aim of World Federation of Independent Scouts is to contribute to the
education of young people, through a value system based on the Scout
Promise and Law, to help build a better world where people are self-fulfilled
as individuals and play a constructive role in society. This is achieved by:

Involving them throughout their formative years in a non-formal

educational process
Assisting them to establish a value system based upon spiritual,
social and personal principles as expressed in the Promise and
Law.

Article 2 Mission
The Mission of World Federation of Independent Scouts is to help young
people to develop mentally, physically, and morally through programs of
companionship, adventure training and public service to their communities.

Article 3 Governance
The World Council of the World Federation of Independent Scouts is the
Secretariat of the World Federation. The World Council is directed by the
President of the World Federation of Independent Scouts, who is elected
every five years, by the member associations of the WFIS.

The World Council was first established in Laubach, Germany in 1996.

As the secretariat of the World Organization, the World Council has a

number of important functions.

It assists the Regional Councils and their subsidiary bodies in the

fulfillment of their functions. This includes the preparation of
meetings and the provision of the necessary services to
implement the decisions of the various bodies.
It provides services for the promotion of Independent Scouting
throughout the world.
It maintains relations with Independent Scout organizations and
helps them develop Scouting in their country.
It promotes the development of Independent Scouting in
countries where it does not exist.
It supervises the organization of international and regional Scout
events such as world and regional jamborees.
It may suspend any member Association, or Regional Council for
cause.
 Regional Councils are currently located in Europe, North America, South
America, and South-West Asia. Further Regional Councils may be added as
needed, at the discretion of the World Council.

New Associations, who apply for membership in areas of the world not
currently covered by a WFIS Regional Council, may apply for membership
in the nearest WFIS Regional Council they are comfortable with.

Article 4 Title and Purpose of the WFIS

The organization of the Independent Scout Movement at the World level is
governed by this PO&R.

The purpose of the World Federation of Independent Scouts is to foster the

Independent Scouting Movement throughout the world by:

(a) Promoting unity and understanding of its Aim and

Mission.
(b) Facilitating its expansion and development.
(c) Maintaining its specific character.

Article 5 WFIS Emblems

The emblem of the WFIS is a plain gold arrowhead with a motto bar
underneath with the letters WFIS on it.

WFIS Emblem
 Member associations may wear the WFIS Zulu shield badge on their
uniform shirt.

Article 6 WFIS Flag

The flag of the WFIS is a plain green flag with the WFIS emblem in the
centre.
Article 7 Membership
Membership in the World Federation of Independent Scouts is open to all
Scout Associations which fulfill the requirements for membership. Authority
to confer such membership is vested in the World Council through the
Regional Councils.

More than one Scout Association per country may be members of the
World Federation of Independent Scouts, or a Federation made up of
several independent Scouting associations may apply for membership.

Membership of an independent Scouting Association in the World

Federation of Independent Scouts requires:

(a) Establishment of its existence and evidence of its operation,

either nationally or regionally.
(b) Having a minimum of two (2) operating Groups.
(c) Adoption and adherence to the Aim and Mission of the WFIS as
laid down in this PO&R.
(d) Enrolment to be open to all persons who agree to conform to
the purpose, principles and method of the independent
Scouting Movement.
(e) Maintenance of the Organization as an independent, non-
political, voluntary movement.
(f) Registration with the World Council.
(g) Regular payment of its registration fees.
(h) Notification to the World Council of any changes to its
Constitution.
(i) Member associations must follow B-Ps original program as laid
out in Scouting For Boys, B-Ps original program may be
modernized for health, safety, first-aid, camping standards,
and environmental reasons only.
(j) Submission of an annual report to the Regional Council.

Article 8 Membership Application Procedure

Applications for membership may be requested from any Regional Council,
or from the World Council.

Individual Scouts, Explorers, Pathfinders, Rovers, Rangers or Leaders may

not be members of the World Federation of Independent Scouts.

Associations must apply for admission in writing to their Regional Council.

The Regional Council shall confirm the admission provisionally in writing

(subject to an acceptance vote by the Regional Council), and shall enclose a
formal membership application form. The Regional Council shall ask for
copies of the applying associations PO&R, Section Handbooks, Photos of
activities, and a copy of their Child Protection Policy.
 The applying association shall return the application form along with the
other requested material to the Regional Council. This material is reviewed
by the Regional Council, and a vote is held by the Regional Council, and if
accepted, the applying association becomes a Prospective Member,

At the next Regional Conference the application is presented. Before this

can happen, a Commissioner must have visited and met with the applying
association to get an actual look at their association, to ensure that it is
being run as a proper independent and traditional association.

If the association is found to be acceptable to the visiting Commissioner, a

detailed report is tabled by them on all aspects of their visit, and a vote is
held by the members of the Regional Council. If accepted, the Prospective
Member is granted Probationary Membership for a two (2) year period.

At the end of their Probationary Membership period, if it is acceptable to

the Regional Council, another vote is held by the Council, and they may be
granted full membership in the World Federation of Independent Scouts.

If it is found that the association with Probationary Membership is not ready

for full membership, a further two (2) probationary year period can be
called for and voted on.

Article 9 Membership Rights and Obligations

Each member association will have one (1) vote at their Regional Council
Assembly, and one (1) vote at a World Council Assembly or World Scouting
Conference, regardless of the number of registered members they have.

Each member association shall pay the annual WFIS registration fee. This
annual fee shall be fixed by the World Council.

Article 10 Termination of Membership

The World Council may provisionally suspend the membership of any
member association which, in its opinion, no longer fulfills the requirements
for membership.

If the World Council maintains its suspension, the suspended association

will be invited to make a written or oral defence at the next World
Conference. The World Conference has the broadest power to then decide
on an appropriate course of action. If its decision is to expel the
association, such decision requires a two-thirds majority of the votes cast.
 Any member association may withdraw from the WFIS by written notice
addressed to the Secretary of the World Council.

A member association which, for any reason, ceases to be a Member, shall

no longer be entitled to the privileges and services of the WFIS, to
recognition by its members, and to use the emblems and other material
associated with independent world Scouting.

Article 11 World Conferences

The World Conference is held every five years at the call of the President,
normally in conjunction with the World Jamboree.

Member Associations are represented at any meeting of the World

Conference by a delegate or delegates not exceeding four (4) from any one
member association.

The functions of the World Conference are:

(a) To consider the policy and standards of the Independent

Scouting Movement throughout the world and to take such
action as shall further the purpose of the WFIS.
(b) To formulate the general policy of the WFIS.
(c) To consider reports and recommendations presented by the
World Council.
(d) To consider recommendations brought forward by member
associations.
(e) To consider proposed amendments to the PO&R and the WFIS
Constitution.
(f) Each member association shall have one (1) vote.
(g) In the event of a tie, the motion is defeated.
(h) There shall be no proxy voting at the World Conference.

Article 12 World Council Elections

The WFIS World Council elections are held every five years. Each member
association is entitled to cast one (1) vote for each position on the Council.

Each member association is entitled to nominate one (1) person for each of
the five (5) different World Council positions. The person nominated can be
from any WFIS member Association; the persons nominated do not have to
be from the Association nominating them.
Nominations are sent forward to the appointed Elections Commissioner by
the Chief Commissioner of each member Association after discussions with
the general membership of the Association.

Every person accepting their nomination shall forward a detailed Scouting

Resume to the appointed Elections Commissioner so it may be posted on
the WFIS World Council website for all members to view.

Regional Councils do not cast a vote in the WFIS World Council elections.

Voting for the WFIS World Council election is done via email between set
dates, no more than 14 days apart.

Votes are cast by the Chief Commissioner of each member Association, on

behalf of his/her Association after discussions with the general membership
of the Association.

There are five (5) positions on the World Council. They are:

President
Vice President
Secretary
Treasurer
Woodbead Training Coordinator

The WFIS World Council elections should be overseen by a neutral

observer, called the Election Commissioner to ensure that the election itself
is run on fair and impartial grounds.
Article 13 World Council - Duties and Responsibilities
The duties and powers of the World Council are:

(a) To promote the WFIS around the world.

(b) To offer advice and encouragement to the Regional Councils.
(c) To offer advice and encouragement to new independent
Scouting Associations.
(d) To raise and control funds of the World Council.
(e) To receive, acquire, accept and hold for, or in the name of the
WFIS, by grant, gift, purchase, devise, legacy, any and all real
and personal property required or useful for the purposes of
independent World Scouting.
(f) To promote the organization and effective operation of Regional
Councils on the terms laid down in the PO&R of the World
Council.
(g) To referee any Regional dispute, or disputes between member
associations.
(h) To suspend for cause any Regional Council, member association,
or any member thereof, subject to an appeal of any suspension
to the World Council.
(i) To recommend youth and adults for decorations and awards.
(j) To set up and operate Woodbead training courses. To ensure
that Regional Woodbead courses meet the required WFIS
standard, and to certify Woodbead National Trainers.
(k) To operate the WFIS Pfadfinder Belt Award.

Article 14 Regional Council Elections

The Regional Council elections are held every three years. Each member
association is entitled to cast one (1) vote for each of the five (5) positions
on the Council.

Each member association is entitled to nominate one (1) person for each of
the five (5) different Regional Council positions. The persons nominated do
not have to be from the Association who nominated them.

Every person accepting their nomination shall forward a detailed Scouting

Resume to the appointed Elections Commissioner so it may be posted on
the Regional Council website for all members to view.

Voting for the Regional Council elections is done via email between set
dates, no more than 14 days apart.
 There are five (5) positions on Regional Councils. They are:

President
Vice President
Secretary
Treasurer
Woodbead Training Coordinator

The Regional Council elections should be overseen by a neutral observer to

ensure that the election itself is run on fair and impartial grounds.

Article 15 Regional Council - Duties and Responsibilities

The duties and powers of the World Council are:

(a) To promote the WFIS within their Regional boundary.

(b) To offer advice and encouragement to its member
associations.
(c) To offer advice, support and encouragement to new
independent Scouting Associations.
(d) To raise and control the funds of the Regional Council.
(e) To guide new member associations through the membership
application process.
(f) To receive, acquire, accept and hold for, or in the name of the
WFIS, by grant, gift, purchase, devise, legacy, any and all real
and personal property required or useful for the purposes of
independent World Scouting.
(g) To referee any disputes between member associations.
(h) To suspend for cause any member association, or any member
thereof, subject to an appeal of any suspension to the World
Council.
(i) To submit an annual report to the WFIS World Council.
(j) To recommend youth and adults for decorations and awards.
(k) To set up and operate Woodbead training courses. To ensure
that their Regional Woodbead courses meet the required WFIS
standard.
Article 16 Promise and Law
All members of the World Federation of Independent Scouts are required to
adhere to a Scout Promise and Law reflecting, in language appropriate to
the culture and civilization of each member Scout Organization, the
principles of Duty to God, Duty to others and Duty to self, and inspired by
the Promise and Law conceived by the Founder of the Scout Movement in
the following terms:

The Scout Promise

On my honour I promise that I will do my best
To do my duty to God and the King (or to God and my Country);
To help other people at all times;
To obey the Scout Law.

The Scout Law

1. A Scouts honour is to be trusted.
2. A Scout is loyal.
3. A Scouts duty is to be useful and to help others.
4. A Scout is a friend to all and a brother to every other Scout.
5. A Scout is courteous.
6. A Scout is a friend to animals.
7. A Scout obeys orders of his parents, Patrol Leader or Scoutmaster
without question.
8. A Scout smiles and whistles under all difficulties.
9. A Scout is thrifty.
10. A Scout is clean in thought, word and deed.

Article 17 Awards Youth and Adult

The World Council shall, from time to time, make awards to both Youth and
Adult members for brave and commendable actions.

These awards are:

For special heroism and extraordinary risk, The Scout Medal of Honour.
This Award is a silver coloured cross, with a green and silver ribbon.

For exceptional service to youth on an international, or worldwide basis,

The Bronze Lion. This Award has a green and gold ribbon.

For good service to Independent Scouting, The Service Cross. This Award
is a bronze cross suspended from a white and red ribbon.

In recognition of help to the WFIS, the Thanks Badge can be awarded to

members and non-members.
Article 18 The Pfadfinder Belt Award

The WFIS shall offer a Pfadfinder Belt Award as per Annex A of this PO&R.

Article 19 Woodbead Training

The WFIS World Council, through their Woodbead Training Coordinator,
shall ensure that the standard of Woodbead training given in the Federation
is of the highest possible standard.

The WFIS Woodbead Training Coordinator shall ensure that each Regional
Council has a qualified Woodbead Training Team, of whom at least one
member should be a WFIS certified national trainer.

It is desirable that if there are sufficient qualified trainers available, that

Woodbadge training for leaders be conducted at all World and Regional
Jamborees.

The following courses are WFIS recognized:

(a) Introduction to Traditional Scouting

(b) Woodbeads Part 1
(c) Woodbeads part 2
(d) Trainer Part 1 (Third Bead)
(e) Trainer Part 2 (Fourth Bead)
(f) National Trainer Certification Course

Course outlines for the courses listed A to E are available from the WFIS
Woodbead Training Coordinator for use by member associations.

The WFIS Woodbead Training Coordinator shall ensure that each Regional
Council has a qualified Woodbead Training Team, of whom at least one
member shall be a WFIS certified national trainer.
Article 20 Child Protection Policies
The major responsibility of adults in the WFIS is the safety and progress of
our youth members. We have a responsibility to ensure that only suitable
adults are recruited.

Our Code of Ethics requires our associations and Regional Councils to

provide a safe environment in which our youth members feel respected and
protected.

Adults interacting with young people in Scouting should do so with integrity

and respect for the young person. There is a danger that some Scouting
contexts can be used to exploit or undermine young people. All adult
actions should be guided by what is best for the young person and in the
context of quality, open working relationships. Verbal, physical, emotional
or sexual abuse of any kind is totally unacceptable.

All members shall abide by and comply with the Child Protection Policies
which are included in Annex B of this PO&R

Article 21 Ethics Policy

All members shall abide by and comply with the Ethics Policies of the WFIS,
which are included in Annex C of this PO&R

Article 22 International Scout Fellowship

The WFIS International Scout Fellowship (ISF) was authorized in August
2007 by the World Council. The ISF provides a resource base from which
Groups can access skills instructors, administrative support, or training.

Typical roles for Fellowship members are to provide specialist skills to

Scouting activities, for example, badge testing, canoe instruction,
pioneering or other adventurous pursuits.

The Fellowship can also provide extra hands at camps, enabling the camp
leaders to run and organize activities without having to overstretch
themselves, with much of what could be considered as a support or logistics
function (for example, cooking meals).
Members of the WFIS International Scout Fellowship (ISF) shall wear the
ISF Zulu shield badge on their uniform shirt.

ISF members shall wear the uniform of their home countries Scout
Association, with the membership badge shown above, and a yellow
neckerchief.
ANNEX A The Pfadfinder Belt Award

The Pfadfinder Belt is the challenge of a lifetime, which is open to Scouts

aged over 16 and members of the Rover Section. It is a chance to take part
in a ten-day expedition that brings a real understanding of a different
country, its people and way of life.

The Pfadfinder belt is described as 'the antidote to the package holiday'. It

is designed to help young people develop a real understanding of another
country by travelling through that country, completing surprise projects,
working as a small team and meeting local people.

The Requirements:

To complete the Pfadfinder Belt, a Scout or Rover must:

Be over 16 years old

Plan and train for an international expedition as part of a small team
Travel to another country and travel through that country over ten
days
Complete a self selected major project
Complete about ten smaller projects
Keep a Logbook during the expedition
Take part in a debriefing after the expedition
Make a presentation about the expedition

Travel:

Most Pfadfinder belt expeditions are undertaken on foot, although other

forms of transport including canoe, boat, bicycle and horseback are equally
acceptable. Some teams may wish to use local public transport as part of
their expedition and, as long as this provides real opportunities to meet and
talk with local people, then it is acceptable. Teams may wish to mix forms
of travel. Please note that hitchhiking is not permitted by The WFIS.

Duration:

The expedition should last for at least ten days. The Pfadfinder Belt is more
of a marathon than a sprint! During this time, the team should spend at
least 30 hours travelling from place to place and visit at lest four different
towns or villages. For a typical team travelling mainly on foot, this would
suggest a route of about 100 miles (160km). However, it is important that
the route and distance take into account the local geography, methods of
transport, physical ability of the team members, daytime temperatures and
likely weather. Time spent travelling to and from the country of the
expedition should not be included.
Training:

Teams must complete training appropriate to the expedition they plan. For
most young people, completing projects while on the move will be a new
experience. A 'mini- Pfadfinder Belt' in which teams undertake a journey
over a weekend, near to home and with two or three surprise projects is
excellent preparation. Training should cover expedition safety and
emergencies, physical preparation and some considerable discussion about
the best ways of approaching and meeting local people for help with
projects.

It is essential that, by the end of the training, teams understand that the
aim of the Pfadfinder Belt is to 'develop a better understanding of another
country, its people and way of life'. Teams that approach the Pfadfinder as
a purely physical challenge are unlikely to achieve the requirements.

Where and When:

Many Pfadfinder belt expeditions are organised by a Country or Association.

These expeditions benefit from the cost savings of group travel and the
extra support that an experienced Country or Association team can offer. In
this case the team may not have much influence over the destination and
dates for the expedition. However, decisions about the precise route will
always remain with the team.

Alternatively, Scouts and Rovers can organise their own Pfadfinder Belt
expeditions as a small team, perhaps as part of a larger trip or camp.

Route:

The route should be chosen with the following in mind:

It should pass through at least four towns or villages

It must not include any wild country
It should support the major project and provide opportunities for
completing smaller projects

In many countries, it will be easier to meet local people in villages rather

than larger towns.
Equipment:

You will be on your own for at least 10 days, so all the gear must be
reliable. Boots must be broken in, while adequate clothing for the
conditions anticipated and suitable lightweight tents must be obtained.

Check what fuels are readily available in the country.

While you will be living largely on the food of the country being visited,
ensure that you have dehydrated foods available as a reserve.

You should aim to carry no more than 16kg each or one fifth of your own
body weight.

Safety and Team Size:

The safety of teams is essential. Pfadfinder Belt expeditions should not be

undertaken in adventurous country. Where it is necessary to pass through
rough areas, the adventurous activity rules must be followed. Because it is
essential to meet local people in order to complete the projects, it is much
more effective to travel in semi-populated areas and in small groups.
Teams should consist of no fewer than four people, but the size of team will
depend on the hazards likely to be met.

In most areas where Pfadfinder Belt expeditions take place, there should be
good access to a mobile telephone network and this should be seriously
considered as one of the emergency contact options, but not the only
option. Teams should be clearly briefed about what to do in an emergency.
Common-sense advice, appropriate to the country being visited, should also
be given about approaching and meeting local people. Many teams have
reported that wearing a Scout uniform at all times provides a quick and
effective way of being recognised as a Scout.

Budget:

Most Pfadfinder Belt expeditions operate on a tight budget. In practice, this

helps because it encourages teams to eat local food, avoid large
commercial campsites and to take advantage of home hospitality.
Projects:

Each team should choose a major project. The assessment team should
approve the project before departure. A good major project is one that:

Surveys of the leisure and recreation interests of young people and

the facilities available to them.
Investigates typical rural industries and crafts
Makes a comparison of lifestyles in the villages and uplands
Follows the course of a river and investigate the different
communities it serves, their industry, agriculture and lifestyles

Another good major project is one that:

Looks at the culture of the country or region being visited.

Discovers the folk music of the people.
Discovers the politics of the country or region.
Discovers what the history of the country or region is.

Each team should also complete ten smaller projects. Five of these should
be surprise projects set by the other members of the Network or Unit.
These projects should be given to the team 24 hours before departure.
Teams should be able to choose projects from a longer list of around 20
projects, in order to provide flexibility and choice based on local
circumstances.

A good project is one that:

Needs help or information from local people

Will prompt the team to try or do something that they might
otherwise have missed
Takes an hour or so to complete
Is based around something unique or special about the area being
visited.
For example 'chat to the oldest person you can find in a village about
the changes they have seen in the area during their lifetime' or 'in
the UK, many people use the Internet every day. How important is
the Internet to people in the area you're visiting?'
Debriefing:

As soon as the expedition is completed and, if possible, before leaving the

country being visited, the team should hold an informal debriefing with a
Leader. This is designed to help the team reflect on:

What they have done

The people they have met
How theirs views have developed about the country visited
How they worked as a team
The appropriateness of their planning and training
What they have achieved

The debriefing is not an assessment and no judgements should be made.

Logbook:

The logbook is assessed. Its purpose is to help teams keep and

presentation. The logbook could be kept on paper, dictated or completed as
a video diary. Photographs or slides are also useful and can help to support
the presentation.

Assessment:

The Pfadfinder Belt is assessed by a team who will base their decision on:

How much the team have developed their knowledge of the country,
people and way of life
How much the team members have developed personally and as a
team from the experience
The quality of the expedition

The members of the assessment team will normally include:

Any expedition leaders.

The Network Co-ordinator.
Another person appointed by the District, Country or Association.

The debriefing, the presentation and a discussion with the team normally
help to make the decision. Successful teams receive a certificate and the
Pfadfinder Belt, which is a belt with a special buckle and is available from
the WFIS Supplies.
Pfadfinder Belt expeditions may count towards the 'Other Adventurous
Projects' requirements of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Gold Expedition,
provided that a notification form is sent to the appropriate Association
Headquarters at least four months before the expedition. The Pfadfinder
Belt can also be used to fulfil the requirements of the St George Award
expedition or parts of the other Awards, but it may not be used more than
once.
ANNEX B CHILD PROTECTION POLICY

DISCIPLINE
Infrequently, there may be a necessity for appropriate disciplinary
measures. The WFIS encourages positive reinforcement to correct
unsuitable behaviour.

The following examples are inappropriate discipline methods:

Physical blows or force.

Confinement.
Emotional abuse.
Humiliation.
Any other form of abuse.

PHYSICAL CONTACT
When dealing with young people, there is acceptable touching and
unacceptable touching. A handshake is acceptable; a hug is sometimes
acceptable; and an embrace is usually unacceptable. Touching which gives
offence or causes any discomfort in not acceptable.

RELATIONSHIPS
The correct relationship between an adult and a youth member is that of
the adult being an instructor, leader, detached friend and guardian. It is a
position of integrity, trust and maturity.

LANGUAGE
The Code of Ethics requires that we do not use vulgar or inappropriate
language when working with youth members.

DISCRIMINATION
The WFIS welcomes people as members regardless of gender, race,
culture, religious belief, sexual orientation, or economic circumstances.
Discrimination of any sort is unacceptable.

HARASSMENT
Harassment breaks down the positive and protective environment we seek
to develop. Harassment is emotionally harmful, and goes against all
Scouting principles. Sexual harassment is any verbal or physical behaviour
of a sexual nature which is unwelcome and offensive.
PRIVACY
An individuals right to privacy must be recognised and taken into
consideration in such matters as sleeping places and toilet facilities. Adult
members should have separate sleeping quarters from the youth members.

ALCOHOL POLICY
No adult member or adult helper shall consume alcohol or any other mood
altering substance prior to, or during, any Scouting activity, whether youth
are present or not.

SMOKING
No adult member or adult helper shall smoke during, any Scouting activity.

GENERAL DUTY
Every adult members responsibility goes beyond the confines of his or her
specific appointment to their own youth. Adults are expected to intervene
when they identify breaches of any part of this Policy.

CHILD ABUSE
There are certain signs which Leaders should be aware of, which might
indicate that a young person has suffered from abuse or trauma. It is
important to note, however, that all of these indicators can occur in other
situations where abuse has not been a factor and that the list which follows
is not exhaustive.

Acting-out, aggressive behaviour.

Lack of trust.
Overly compliant behaviour.
Regressive behaviour.
Lack of friends.
Excessive attachment to adults.
Unusual reluctance to join in normal activities involving the
removal of clothing, such as swimming.
Reluctance to go home or to interact with a particular
individual or group.
Depressed appearance.
Change in attendance pattern / unexpected dropout.
Change in the characteristic way of behaving.
Signs of familial discord.
There are a number of different types of abuse and these
include physical abuse; neglect; psychological / emotional
abuse; sexual abuse.
PHYSICAL ABUSE
Physical abuse of a young person involves the intentional non-accidental
use of force on the part of the person interacting with a young person in his
/ her care aimed at hurting or injuring the young person, or knowingly not
preventing such injury.

Signs of Physical Abuse:

Unexplained bruising in soft tissue areas.

Repeated injury.
Black eye/s.
Injuries to the mouth.
Torn or bloodstained clothing.
Burns and scalds.
Bites.
Fractures.
Marks from implements.
Inconsistent stories / excuses relating to injuries.
Behavioural signs.

NEGLECT
Passive abuse or neglect involves the persistent or severe neglect of a
young person, whether wilful or unintentional, which results in serious
psychological impairment of the young person's health, development or
welfare.

Signs of neglect:
Nutritional deprivation.
Persistently dirty / smelly clothing or appearance.
Inadequate clothing.
Non-healing of injuries / ailments.
Signs of parental neglect.
Behavioural signs.

PSYCHOLOGICAL / EMOTIONAL ABUSE

Emotional abuse occurs when an individual suffers harm as a result of being
intimidated, emotionally exploited, and exposed to constant denigration,
ridicule, rejection or verbal attack for their supposed shortcomings. This is
the least recognised form of harm done to children, yet the long-term
psychological consequences may be more traumatic than in the case of
simple physical injury.

Signs of Psychological / Emotional Abuse:

These are largely behavioural.
SEXUAL ABUSE
Sexual abuse is the involvement of dependent, developmentally immature
children and adolescents in sexual activities that they do not fully
comprehend, to which they are unable to give informed consent or that
violate the social taboos of family or carer or which are against the law.
This involves the use of young people by others for sexual gratification and
self power and includes many forms, from e.g. talking in a sexual way,
exposure, touching etc., to full sexual intercourse.

Sexual activities are abuse if one person with greater power whether due to
age, physique, status, understanding or knowledge takes advantage of the
vulnerability, fears, weaknesses, lack of understanding, helplessness or
need of another person.

Abuse is also present if mutual consent is absent. For consent to be

present, it must be "informed" and it must be freely given. Young people
cannot know the dangers and risks, whether emotional or physical, of
engaging in sexual relationships where they are the vulnerable partner. In
these circumstances they cannot give informed consent. Sexual abuse can
involve older children abusing younger children if the above criteria exist.
These cases must also be dealt with according to the standards of the Child
Welfare Services of each country.

Signs of Sexual Abuse:

Hints about sexual activity / abuse.

Age-inappropriate understanding of sexual behaviour (especially by
young children).
Inappropriate sexual play with other children or toys.
Preoccupation with touching sexual parts of the body.
Bloodstained underclothing.
Reluctance to remove clothing.
Excessive fear or dislike of adults / older children.
Unexpected change in the child's attitude towards Scout activities.
Other behavioural signs.

REPORTING PROCEDURE FOR CHILD ABUSE

It is important to remember that when one is reporting suspected child
abuse in good faith it is not the same as making an accusation of abuse i.e.
reporting does not mean accusing.
REPORTING PROCEDURE FOR CHILD ABUSE
Responsibility for investigation of child abuse cases suspected or otherwise,
lies with the Child Welfare Services of each country and the Police Services.
Responsibility for monitoring and co-ordinating the management of such
cases rests with the Child Welfare Services. It is not appropriate for
individuals, Groups, Districts, Associations or Regional Councils etc., to
carry out internal investigations into cases where child abuse is suspected.

CHILD ABUSE REPORTING PROCEDURE WITHIN A SCOUTING

CONTEXT
Any person who knows or suspects that a child is being harmed or is at risk
of harm has a legal duty to convey his / her concern to the local Child
Welfare Authorities & Police immediately.

Once the authorities have been notified, the proper Scouting Authorities
should be notified and made aware of the situation.

When matters regarding the safety of other children arise in a Scouting

context it will be necessary for the proper Scouting Authorities to be
informed of the allegations made so that suspension of the Leader or
Helper from activities which involve young people may be carried out until
the conclusion of an investigation by the Legal Authorities. It is important
to record carefully all concerns and allegations made.

CONFIDENTIALITY
Confidentiality must be maintained in respect of all issues and people
involved in concerns about abuse. A guarantee cannot be given to a person
providing information relating to concerns about or knowledge of abuse that
the information received will be kept absolutely confidential. However, all
information should be treated in a careful and sensitive manner and should
be discussed only with those who have a need to know.
ANNEX C ETHICS POLICY

Scouting has held a valued place in society since its inception over one
hundred years ago. Socialisation is the process whereby a person acquires
a social identity, learns appropriate behaviour and conforms to expectations
held by members of the group to which s/he belongs or aspires to belong.
The importance of our Movement in socialisation has long been recognised.
The role of the Movement in modern society has become increasingly more
significant in the social and cultural life of many countries.

The Scouting Movement has never been of greater importance than it

Is today, with all of the pressures and distractions (many less than healthy)
calling on the minds and emotions of young people from an early age.
Apart from its important role in socialisation, Scouting answers many needs
of today's children and young people, from healthy exercise in the out-of-
doors to stress reduction, from the thrill of achievement to the
enhancement of self-confidence and self-esteem.

The contribution of Leaders, who voluntarily give of their time to provide

such experiences for young people, is invaluable. Without them Scouting
could not flourish. This unique relationship, whereby adults and young
people voluntarily come together to learn and to share values, deserves all
the support and protection that can be provided. This Code of Ethics and
Good Practice is aimed at helping to provide such support and protection. It
is in the interest of everyone involved in Scouting that this Code will be a
living document, used by all involved in the Movement, and acted upon by
all those in management positions. Time and experience will necessitate
revisions and additions to the Code, which is integral to the nature of such
a document.

Core Values
The organisation of Scouting activities for young people should be guided
by a set of values which provide the foundation for all practices:

Importance of Childhood
The importance of being young must be understood and valued by
everyone in Scouting. The right to happiness while young must be
recognised and enhanced at all levels of the Movement.
Needs of the child
All Scouting experiences and contexts must be guided by what is best for
young people. This means that adults must understand the emotional,
physical and personal needs of young people. The stages of development of
young people should guide the types of activity provided within Scouting.
All adults should have the ability to respond positively to the individual
needs of each young person.
All adults involved in leadership roles should have a sound understanding of
the importance of enhancing self esteem for young people and should seek
to develop positive and healthy relationships with and between the young
people in their care.

Integrity in relationships
Adults interacting with young people in Scouting should do so with integrity
and respect for the young person. There is a danger that some Scouting
contexts can be used to exploit or undermine young people. All adult
actions should be guided by what is best for the young person and in the
context of quality, open working relationships. Verbal, physical, emotional
or sexual abuse of any kind are unacceptable.

Quality atmosphere and ethos

Membership of the Movement should be conducted in a safe, positive and
encouraging atmosphere. A child centred ethos will help to ensure that
competition and specialisation are kept in their appropriate place. Too often
competitive demands are placed on young people too early which results in
excessive levels of pressure on them and as a consequence, high levels of
drop-out from the Movement.

Equality
Young people should be treated in an equitable and fair manner regardless
of age, ability, sex, religion, social and ethnic background or political
persuasion. Young people with disability should be involved in Scouting in
an integrated way, thus allowing them to participate to their potential
alongside other young people.

The important role of Adult Leaders

The role of Leaders will be promoted and enhanced through the provisions
of this Code of Ethics and Good Practice. The right of Leaders to obtain a
healthy sense of achievement and satisfaction through their involvement in
Scouting must be recognised.
The necessity for education and training
Scouting exposes young people to new challenges, some of which occur in
environments with certain risks. Adults who take responsibility for young
people in Scouting have a duty to ensure that they are competent to
provide safe and rewarding experiences for those in their care. Appropriate
training and educational opportunities need to be developed for all Leaders
in the Movement.

Self awareness
All Leaders should have a realistic understanding of their level of
competence in relevant areas. This should include an understanding of the
reasons for their own involvement in Scouting and recognition that the
main goal of Scouting is to provide positive experiences for young people.

Relationships between Young People

Interaction between young people should be conducted in a spirit of mutual
respect and fair play. Such interaction can be promoted by adults who
create an environment in which quality, open relationships are modelled
and valued and where the integrity of each individual is respected.

Benefits of Scouting for Young People

Young people have a lot to gain from Scouting. Their natural sense of fun
and spontaneity can blossom in positive Scouting environments which
promote progress in a child centred way. Scouting provides an excellent
medium in which young people can learn new skills, become more confident
and maximise their own unique potential. These benefits will accrue
through a positive and progressive approach to the involvement of young
people in Scouting which places the needs of the young person first and
winning and competition second. A child centred and progressive approach
to young people in Scouting will return many benefits in terms of the health
and well being of our future adult population.

Adult-Youth Relationships
Adult-Youth relationships should be:

1. Entered into by choice.

2. Open, positive and encouraging.
3. Defined by a mutually agreed set of goals and commitments.
4. Respectful of the creativity and autonomy of young people.
5. Defined by an ethical code of conduct relating to interaction, touching
and bullying.
6. Carried out in a context where young people are protected and where
their rights are promoted.
7. Free from verbal, physical, emotional or sexual abuse.
8. Respectful of the needs and developmental stage of the young person.
9. Aimed at the promotion of enjoyment and individual progress.
10. Respectful of the roles and responsibilities of Leaders.
11. Governed by a Code of Ethics and Good Practice in Scouting.
Quality Leadership
Adults have a crucial leadership role to play in the Scout Movement.
Whether as parents / guardians, helpers, instructors, administrators or
Leaders they hold positions which can contribute to creating a positive
environment for young people. The unique nature of Scouting provides
Leaders with the opportunity to develop positive and special relationships
with young people. Such relationships have tremendous potential in helping
young people to develop and express themselves in an open and secure
way.

Because of the personal input of volunteers the view might be held

that they are either beyond reproach or that the imposition of any
additional conditions or training would be unacceptable. However, given the
important and responsible roles which adults play at many different levels
in Scouting, it is essential that their competence and ability to deal with
young people in a fair, empathetic and ethical way is ensured.

Breaches of discipline and appeals procedures

Rules and expectations should be positively stated, agreed and
communicated clearly too all involved in any activity.

Confidentiality
Confidentiality must be maintained throughout all stages of dealing with a
complaint. Confidentiality is about managing information in a respectful,
professional and purposeful manner. Only those who need to know about a
complaint shall be given information. Informally revealing information to
anyone else should be avoided.

Sanctions
Sanctions are an important element in maintaining discipline. However,
Leaders should have a clear understanding of where and when particular
sanctions are appropriate.

Any sanctions which may be interpreted as being humiliating or improper

should not be used.

Care should be taken not to expose a young person intentionally or

unintentionally to embarrassment or disparagement by use of sarcastic or
flippant remarks about the young person, his / her family etc.

Leaders shall never use any form of corporal punishment or physical force
on a youth.
Guidelines for the use of sanctions
Sanctions should be used in a corrective way designed to help young
people improve now and in the future. Sanctions should not be used to
retaliate or to make the Leader feel better.

When violations of rules or other misbehaviours occur, sanctions should be

applied in an impersonal way. Proper use of the Court of Honour, Crew
Council, or Group Council will ensure that this happens.
Once a good rule has been agreed upon, ensure that young people who
violate it experience the unpleasant consequences of their misbehaviour.
Sanctions should not be waved threateningly over the heads of young
people. They should be implemented fairly and firmly.

One clear warning should be given before delivering sanctions.

Sanctions should be administered in a consistent way.

If an appropriate action cannot be devised right away, the young person

should be told that the matter will be dealt with later, at a specified time.

Once sanctions have been imposed, it is important to make the young

person feel a valued member of the group again.

Sanctions should not be seen by the young person as a rewarding

experience for his / her inappropriate behaviour.

Young people should not be sanctioned for making genuine errors.

Physical activity (e.g. running laps or doing push-ups) shall not be used as
sanctions. To do so only causes young people to resent physical activity,
something which they should learn to enjoy throughout their lives.

Sanctions should be used sparingly. Constant sanctioning and criticism

cause young people to turn away from Scouting.

Sanctions should be fair and in the case of persistent offences should be

progressively applied. The following steps are suggested:

- Statement and agreement of rules

- Warning if a rule is broken
- Sanction if the rule is broken a second time (e.g. temporary
exclusion from the activity)
- Individual interview if the rule is broken again
- Longer term exclusion for continued breaking of rules and
involvement of parents / guardians.
Substance abuse
The use of drugs, alcohol and tobacco shall be actively discouraged as
being incompatible with a healthy approach to Scouting activity.

A Scout Leader should never smoke when taking part in an activity.

Associations should be encouraged to organise receptions and celebrations

in a manner that is suitable for the age group concerned.

Officials shall ensure that those in their charge are aware of the illegality of
forbidden drugs or other abusive substances.

Councils and Groups shall not seek direct sponsorship from the alcohol and
tobacco industries.

Safety
All activities being undertaken should be suitable for the age, experience
and ability of the participants. Where protective equipment is deemed
necessary it shall be used.

All persons involved in organising Scouting activities should have First Aid
expertise available for all activities and events. They should have a proper
First Aid Kit, including gloves for each open wound injury.
All injuries, including minor ones, should be recorded, with a note of the
action taken.

Abuse
Parents / guardians, care givers (i.e. persons who while not parents /
guardians have actual responsibility for a child) or others can harm children
either by direct acts, or by a failure to provide proper care, or both. Such
acts include physical injuries, severe neglect, and sexual or emotional
abuse. The detection and prevention of child abuse depends on the
collaborative effort of everyone concerned. Central to the success of this
effort are the following:

- Knowledge of the behavioural and physical indicators of various

forms of abuse.
- Knowledge of the appropriate response and action to be taken where
abuse is revealed or suspected.
-Vigilance, and avoidance of all situations conductive to risk.
- Open, trusting and co-operative relationships within the Group /
Section, and with parents / guardians, Leaders and others concerned
with young people's progress or welfare.
Sources of abuse
The source of abuse of a child involved in Scouting may be within or outside
of the organisation, and could include one or more of the following:

-Leaders
-Another child / adolescent in the Group / Association
-Person providing transport or other assistance
-Family member / carer
-Person outside of home / organisation

This Code of Ethics and Good Practice outlines the major issues which need
to be addressed if the Independent Scouting Movement is to develop to the
highest standards of quality and respect for the needs and dignity of young
people. Responsibility lies with all individuals to act on the
recommendations which have been included and to work co-operatively in
helping to make membership of the Movement a happy, safe and rewarding
experience for all.