Thanks to Malcolm for this update from Isle of Wight Scouts. Ed
Paul is a Police Inspector and has just started working back on the Island having been working on the mainland in a role which included planning the police response for the Olympic Torch relay.
Paul has been involved with Scouting all his life, as he now tells us in this short biography :
“I can remember going to Corf Camp near Newtown long before I was old enough to join Cubs as my father was a Scout leader at 2nd Cowes. I had a great time learning skills outside of school and building new friendships and I stayed at 2nd Cowes until I joined the RAF at 18 as a musician, and even then I was able to help a Scout Troop at RAF Locking.
“I have four children and I was keen for them to enjoy Scouting too and jumped at the chance to help at 1st Gurnard when we returned to the IOW over 20 years ago. I have seen the group grow in that time in 2013 saw more adults join us, including my wife and daughter as Beaver Scout leaders. My grandchildren are now in the Beaver Colony and Cub Pack too so it’s definitely in the blood.”
Paul also goes on to tell us his thoughts about his plans for the future of Isle of Wight Scouting:
“Taking on the role as County Commissioner is both daunting and exciting. We have over 1400 members on the IOW but I would really like to see that increase as we have so much to offer. With subs at around £2 a week girls and boys can join us from 5 ¾ and stay until they are 25.
“My aim is to ensure that our young people shape scouting, that will be the best way to ensure we are offering a relevant movement whilst still sticking to the main aim of helping our members reach their potential and have a positive impact on society. I have set myself a target to meet all the sections on the Island in 100 days to get everyone’s view right from the start.
“Adult volunteers are at the heart of Scouting and as a Scout you will get every bit as much out of it as you put in, and to help you to be effective in your role we provide training and support.
“The Isle of Wight County training team provides a comprehensive programme of training to build on and enhance your skills and knowledge. Some elements of training can count towards externally-recognised qualifications while others help build confidence and develop you as a person.”
The Scouting movement is growing
Paul will be guiding Isle of Wight Scouts through a time of change. Scouting today is growing. We are more diverse with more communities turning to Scouting for opportunities, activities and expertise.
Young People are now taking a greater role in decision-making locally and nationally. They have become the face and voice of Scouting, and our Young Leaders are helping to deliver great programmes.
As part of our national Vision 2018 programme we will be working to encourage our Young People to become even more involved with shaping their own future and their own community.
You can find about scouting on the Island at www.isleofwightscouts.org.uk
