Dear all, 

There has been a bit of confusion as to the use of the Scout owned mobile climbing wall, on community type events; in regard to appropriate dress code. 

In particular, correct footwear. 

While we stipulate appropriate footwear must be worn by Scouts, the same rules are not always applied to the public. This has put some of our Instructors in a difficult position, with pressure placed on them by the organizers to "just let the kids have a go" 

The rules we have for Scout members are  to be exactly the same as rules that apply to the public, using the Climbing Wall.  

If approached by a community group to run say the Climbing wall, you need to ensure the organizers are fully aware there are certain requirements which need to be abided to, in regard to the wearing of appropriate footwear. (Whether they provide signs, or even mention it in their advertising flyer of the event, it's up to them!)

Our Instructors are all trained up to a high level of expertise, with safety being  paramount in that training.   As Instructors, they are responsible for the safety of all who use the wall, and have the final say in whether a person is physically able, and appropriately dressed, to participate on the activity or not.    

While it is wonderful we are able to showcase what today's Scouting is all about within these community type events, at the same time lets also display our professionalism and commitment to safety in what we do. Please pass on to your local groups.      

If anyone has any questions, please let me know. 

With regards, ? ? ? ?                                

Mark Fell (Dingo)
Region Commissioner Activities