What we do

The Scouts are the UK’s biggest mixed youth organisation; Reading Central is one of the largest Districts in the Royal Berkshire with a total membership of over 10,000 and growing.

We prepare young people with skills for life

The Scouts are the UK’s biggest mixed youth organisation; Reading Central is one of the largest Districts in the Royal Berkshire with a total membership of over 10,000 and growing.

As Scouts, we believe in preparing young people with skills for life.

We encourage young people to do more, learn more and be more. Each week, we help over 460,000 young people aged 6-25 enjoy fun and adventure while developing the skills they need to succeed, now and in the future.

We’re talking about teamwork, leadership and resilience – skills that have helped Scouts become everything from teachers and social workers to astronauts and Olympians. We help young people develop and improve key life skills.

We believe in bringing people together. We celebrate diversity and stand against intolerance, always. We’re part of a worldwide movement, creating stronger communities and inspiring positive futures.

What Scouts do  

Young people in the Scouts take part in an exciting programme of activities from kayaking to coding. They develop character skills like resilience, initiative and tenacity; employability skills such as leadership, teamwork and problem solving; and practical skills like cooking and first aid. And research proves it really works. A 2018 report says Scouts are 17% more likely to show leadership skills and work well in teams. They’re a third more likely to support their communities too.

Volunteer today

Whether you can spare an hour a month or a day a year, we have hundreds of opportunities both behind the scenes and directly supporting young people. With full support and award winning training, you can volunteer on a flexible basis. Not only is it incredibly rewarding and great fun, you’ll learn some brilliant skills transferable to the workplace too. We welcome volunteers from every community and background. You don’t need to have been a Scout. You just need to believe in a more positive future and the difference we can make together.

Get involved

Search for your local Group to find out how to develop your skills, learn new ones and be part of the Scouting story.