ScoutsCymru: where confidence grows and futures take shape

Across Wales, thousands of young people are gaining confidence, building resilience and discovering what they’re capable of, often in ways that stay with them for life.

That’s the impact of ScoutsCymru.

As the national body for Scouting in Wales, ScoutsCymru supports over 14,000 young people, powered by 4,500+ amazing volunteers and delivered through around 300 local groups. Together, they create spaces where young people can try new things, develop leadership skills and feel part of something bigger.

It’s open to young people aged 4 right through to 25, so there’s a place for everyone. For younger members, it’s all about fun, learning and trying new things, while for those aged 18 to 25, it becomes more about staying connected, building networks, travelling, and meeting like-minded people as they head into further education or the world of work.

We spoke to Kerrie Gemmill, CEO of ScoutsCymru, and Lisa Newberry, Communications Manager, about the difference Scouting is making in Wales and beyond.

Can you tell us about ScoutsCymru?

ScoutsCymru is part of a global movement, but its impact is felt locally in communities across Wales, every single week.

Open to young people aged 4 to 25, it offers more than just activities. It offers a journey  that starts with fun and discovery and grows into confidence, independence and connection.

“ScoutsCymru has been part of communities in Wales for over 100 years, and we’re incredibly proud of that history,” says Kerrie. “In fact, we celebrated our centenary last year! But what matters just as much is what we’re doing now - creating opportunities for young people to grow, try new things and feel like they belong.”

What would you say is the mission of ScoutsCymru?

“People often think of Scouting as camping and that’s definitely part of it,” Kerrie explains. “But it’s also about developing real-life skills. So things as diverse as cooking, tech, public speaking, teamwork and problem-solving, these are experiences that stay with young people for life.”

That focus on life skills is matched by something equally important and that’s mindset.

“A big part of what we do is encourage curiosity,” says Lisa. “We want young people to ask questions, think for themselves and explore the world around them. Those skills are so important, especially in the world we’re living in now where we’re all constantly bombarded with information.”

What are some of the most impactful projects you’ve recently supported?

The impact of Scouting isn’t just built on one-off moments, but the fact it happens week after week, in safe and supportive environments where young people can step away from everyday pressures and simply grow.

But some initiatives bring that impact into sharp focus. 

Kerrie said: “One standout projects was a programme we ran to encourage more women into adventurous activities like hill walking. We realised there was a gap there, so we piloted a course and it was oversubscribed three times over. A lot of the women said they’d held back because of confidence, or they felt like they didn’t have the right kit or experience. But by the end of it, they felt confident enough to lead activities themselves, which was incredible to see.”

International experiences are another powerful example, particularly for young people who may not otherwise have the chance to travel.

“We’ve seen young people come back from international trips with a completely different outlook,” Lisa explains. “They’re more confident, more independent and more aware of the world around them. For many families, that transformation is huge and we hear from parents who have seen a shift in confidence as a result of an international trip.”

What does the partnership between GlobalWelsh and ScoutsCymru mean to you, and how does it support your mission?

Scouting is a global movement and this partnership is about reconnecting that global network with its Welsh roots.

“Scouting is a global network,” Lisa says. “Many former Scouts go on to do incredible things in all sorts of fields. This partnership helps us reconnect with them, not just to celebrate their journeys, but to create opportunities for young people in Wales through mentorship, shared experiences and inspiration.”

“It also helps to challenge outdated perceptions. Scouting has sometimes been seen as quite traditional or male-dominated,” Kerrie adds. “But today it’s fully inclusive. We welcome people from all backgrounds, genders, cultures and communities to a safe space  where everyone can feel they belong, be themselves and thrive. It’s partnerships like this that help us show how much Scouting has evolved.”

Beyond that, there is growing recognition of the wider value of Scouting, particularly in professional settings.

“Volunteering doesn’t just benefit communities,” Kerrie says. “And the partnership will help raise awareness within business communities about the value of volunteering, not just for communities, but for employee wellbeing, engagement, and development."

How can new volunteers, individuals, or businesses get involved with ScoutsCymru?

Behind every opportunity is a volunteer and there are many ways to be part of that.

“Volunteering is flexible,” Lisa explains. “People can give a few hours a month and still make a real difference. And support doesn’t always have to be financial - equipment, expertise or simply helping to spread the word can all have a huge impact.”

From supporting local groups to sharing skills or opening doors, involvement can take many forms.

“At a local level, people can support their nearest Scout group by sharing skills, helping with recruitment, or raising awareness. Ultimately, it comes down to three things: volunteering, investment and connection,” Kerrie says. “Everyone has something they can contribute.”

What do you wish more people knew about ScoutsCymru?

“I think there are still misconceptions about what Scouting is and who it’s for. But the reality is simple: it’s open to everyone! No matter your background, gender, or ability, there’s a place for you in Scouts,” Kerrie says. “That inclusivity is something we’re really proud of.”

“When you look at everything young people get access to - from outdoor adventures and travel to life skills like leadership, teamwork and confidence - it’s incredible,” she adds. “It’s not just one experience, it’s a whole range that helps shape who they become.”

None of it would be possible without volunteers.

“Thousands of people across Wales give their time every single week,” Kerrie says. “They are the backbone of Scouts, and without them, none of this would exist.”

Looking ahead, what are your ambitions for the coming year?

The year ahead is focused on growth, opportunity and ensuring even more young people can take part.

Plans include a large-scale camp bringing together around 2,000 young people, alongside international trips to Canada, Ireland and Bavaria. A youth parliament will also give young people a platform to share their views and shape conversations that matter to them.

At the same time, there is a clear focus on sustainable growth.

“We’ve currently got thousands of young people on waiting lists,” Lisa says. “So one of our biggest priorities is growing in a way that allows more young people to take part, while making sure our volunteers feel supported.”

You’ve also launched a survey - how does that fit into those future plans?

At its core, the survey is about reconnecting a global community.

ScoutsCymru is looking to understand where former members are now, how their experiences have shaped them, and how those stories can inspire the next generation.

“It’s about connection,” Kerrie explains. “We want to find out where people have ended up and bring those stories back to Wales. It’s a chance to show young people what’s possible and reconnect people, but also to inspire the next generation. To show young people that Scouting can take you anywhere. 

And honestly, it’s just really exciting to think about where all those former Beavers, Cubs and Scouts might be now, and how we can bring those stories back to Wales.”

If you’ve ever been involved in Scouts or know someone who has, ScoutsCymru would love to hear from you.

Take a few minutes to share your story here >>