Discipline Policy

1st Burghfield & Sulhamstead Scout Group (herein referred to as the group) has a standard of acceptable behaviour that is required by young people (Beavers, Cubs and Scouts) within the group. The following is required by its youth members:

• Take an active part in activities provided;
• Show respect to each other and to leaders (including adult helpers);
• Listen and do not talk over each other or leaders (including adult helpers);
• Attend meetings on time and in uniform;
• Follow instructions given;
• Be respectful of others feelings;
• Do not show any unnecessary physical contact;
• Do not act in a disruptive manner;
• Adhere to the group’s anti-bullying policy.

The group has a strict anti-bullying policy (in line with the Scout Associations policy) and at no time will bullying (either physical or mental) be tolerated.

It is the group’s aim and the responsibility of all adults in Scouting to help develop a caring and supportive atmosphere, where bullying in any form is unacceptable.

Adults in the group aim to:

• Be aware of the potential problems bullying may cause;
• Be alert to signs of bullying, harassment or discrimination;
• Take action to deal with such behaviour when it occurs, following Association policy guidelines;
• Provide access for young people to talk about any concerns they may have;
• Encourage young people and adults to feel comfortable and caring enough to point out attitudes or behaviour they do not like.

Disciplinary Action, Warnings and Suspension/Dismissal

In the situation where a leader finds a young person is contravening the above, disciplinary action may be taken under the following guidelines:

1. Seek advice. For example by discussing with fellow leaders, the Group Scout Leader, Scoutbase Factsheets or supportive websites.
2. Discuss with parent/guardian for any background or guidance that may be of assistance.

If behaviour does not improve, then a leader (who shall advise the Group Scout Leader) may:

1. Give a verbal warning to the young person;
2. Give a second verbal warning to the young person and inform the parent/guardian;
3. Give a written warning to the young person giving a deadline for improvement and advising that formal suspension and/or dismissal will be sought for non-compliance.

Summary Suspension and Dismissal

In the event that a young person is accused of a serious criminal offence or of behaviour that puts adults, young people or property at serious risk, the young person may immediately be suspended, pending further investigation which may lead to dismissal.

Suspension is not a disciplinary sanction or an indication of guilt: it ensures that no situation can arise that may cause further concern and allows a period where further information may be received and, if appropriate, within which the statutory agencies (typically the police or social services) may carry out their duties.

Where a young person's membership has been suspended, they may not participate in any activity connected with Scouting and must not wear the uniform or badges.

The parent(s)/guardian(s) of the young person must be informed of the suspension in writing.

Any of the above actions MUST be recorded on the youth member’s personal file.