The Scout Association is an inclusive and values based Movement which supports its Members to engage with spirituality in an exciting and meaningful way. The Scout Association is an open Association and does not identify with one faith exclusively. Membership is open to all those individuals who share our fundamental values, and are willing to make a commitment to them, expressed by the Promise and Law.
The Scout Promise
There are a number of variations of the Scout Promise to reflect the range of faiths, beliefs and attitudes, and nationalities, in the UK within Scouting.
For humanists, atheists and those with no defined faith
On my honour,
I promise that I will do my best
to uphold our Scout values,
to do my duty to the King,
to help other people
and to keep the Scout Law.
For Hindus and Buddhists
On my honour,
I promise that I will do my best
to do my duty to my Dharma
and to the King,
to help other people
and to keep the Scout Law.
For Christians, Jews and Sikhs
On my honour,
I promise that I will do my best
to do my duty to God
and to the King,
to help other people
and to keep the Scout Law.
For Muslims
In the name of Allah,
the Most Beneficial
and the Most Merciful,
I promise that I will do my best
to do my duty to Allah
and to the King,
to help other people
and to keep the Scout Law.
Why is the Promise important?
The Promise is a simple way to help young people and adults keep the Fundamentals of Scouting in mind. The Promise is the commitment made by all Members as they join Scouting, promising to share the values of Scouting. It is therefore vital that every Member considers the Promise, and discusses its meaning before making the Promise and being invested into Scouting.
There are a number of variations of the Promise to reflect the range of faiths, beliefs and attitudes; and nationalities in the UK within Scouting. Each version is written to be appropriate to the broad level of understanding of each of the age groups within the Movement. We believe that this approach is inclusive. Celebrating and understanding difference, including difference in faiths and beliefs, is an important aspect of the educational and developmental side of Scouting.
The Scout Law
1. A Scout is to be trusted.
2. A Scout is loyal.
3. A Scout is friendly and considerate.
4. A Scout belongs to the worldwide family of Scouts.
5. A Scout has courage in all difficulties.
6. A Scout makes good use of time and is careful of possessions and property.
7. A Scout has self-respect and respect for others.
The Scout Flag
The Scout flag is dark green, bearing the Scout symbol and Motto.
The Explorer flag is Olive green, with symbol and Motto
The Scout Motto
Be Prepared
Uniform and badge placement
You don’t need a uniform to join. But once you’ve settled in, you’ll start speedily earning badges, and you’ll need to know where to put them!
