Based at the end of Smugglers Lane, the 2nd Reepham group offers around 100 young people aged 6–18 years the chance to experience scouting in the local community and further afield with a wide range of activities and camps.
 
To give these young people a chance of everything it has to offer, the group relies on volunteer leaders to run activities each night and their sections’ nights away.
 
Following the first Covid lockdown, the scout group had six young people on its waiting list across the Beavers (6–8 years), Cubs (8–10 years), Scouts (10–14 years) and Explorers (14–18 years) sections.
 
“Within the first week post-lockdown we had 35 on the waiting list and 79 by the end of October 2021,” said group scout leader Neil Sainty.
 
“All sections returned to the numbers they had pre-pandemic, whereas other scout groups across the county lost numbers and some were even forced to close.
 
“It has taken until this September for us to be able take on any new members – and that’s only in the Beavers section. As of October we still have a waiting list of more than 50.”
 
However, in August the Explorer leaders had to step down, so the 2nd Reepham group had to close the section and move the Explorers to other local groups.
 
One scout leader has volunteered to run this section, but a minimum of two are needed to meet safe working and scouting guidelines, Mr Sainty explained.
 
As well as section leaders, 2nd Reepham has an executive committee comprising  a chair, treasurer and secretary. It is currently looking for a treasurer to take over from the current member of the core team as soon as possible as she has other commitments.
 
“This is a role that we cannot be without going forward,” said Mr Sainty. “We can offer full training if you feel you would like to take this on or share the role.
 
“I know it’s a big ask for anyone to give up their time and commitment to run a charity, but we do try to make a difference for the children in the local community. We offer full training and a chance to join in as often or as little as you want.”
 
The scout group will hold its annual general meeting at 7 pm on Sunday 30 October via Zoom. Please contact Neil Sainty if you would like to attend.
 
For further information, contact: Neil Sainty, Group Scout Leader, 2nd Reepham. Tel: 07714 703734. Email: 2ndreephamgroupgsl@gmail.com