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Girlguiding Scotland is on the hunt for Highland volunteers to help bring guiding to more girls


By Ali Morrison

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GirlGuiding at Blair Activity Centre - July 2021 - © Julie Broadfoot - www.juliebee.co.uk
GirlGuiding at Blair Activity Centre - July 2021 - © Julie Broadfoot - www.juliebee.co.uk

GIRLGUIDING Scotland is on the hunt for Highland volunteers to help bring guiding to more girls.

There are currently almost 500 girls on the waiting lists to join Rainbows, Brownies, Guides and Rangers throughout the Highlands.

Participants take on adventurous activities such as climbing, canoeing, sailing and orienteering and have the opportunity to get involved in camps, international events, girl-only festivals and overseas development projects.

In local ‘units’, girls complete badges and challenges that cover topics from circus skills, stargazing and scientific investigation, to first aid, camping and community action.

Girlguiding Scotland says volunteers benefit in many ways, gaining confidence, meeting new people, being part of a community, taking on challenges and having fun

A survey carried out by Girlguiding found that nearly a third of girls and young women in Scotland feel lockdown has had a negative impact on their mental health with high levels of worry, stress, and loneliness.

Girlguiding Scotland volunteer Tricia Forrester said: “It has been especially hard during the pandemic.

“We have had to come up with new and innovative ways to help support girls and young women’s wellbeing during these uncertain times.

“Being a volunteer for Girlguiding Scotland has really helped me embed myself into the community as well as being so rewarding, knowing that I am providing girls and young women with a safe space to have fun, connect with their friends and build skills for their future.”

Moira McKenna, chief guide for Girlguiding Scotland, said: “We currently have a strong team of around 10,000 volunteers, but with growing demand we want to ensure that all girls and young women have the opportunity to join Girlguiding.

“We are looking to increase the adult membership to help more girls and young women access the benefits that guiding has to offer.

“We are looking for more volunteers to get involved to make a meaningful impact in the lives of girls and young women, building on the incredible work during the pandemic.

“New volunteers can choose from opportunities to work directly with young members and lead on the delivery of activities; go on international trips and adventure weekends away; and access bespoke training.

“The campaign highlights how volunteering with Girlguiding Scotland supports people’s self-development and improves their confidence and wellbeing.”

Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer or a girlguide should visit www.girlguidingscotland.org.uk

READ: GOING FOR GOLD: Inverness business Anderson Clark awarded with the Investors in People Gold Accreditation


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