Mansfield & District Scouts announce changes to boost decision-making process

Mansfield Scout District has announced a series of major developments designed to place young people at the heart of decision‑making and future planning.

The changes come as long‑serving volunteer Pete Hawley prepares to step down from his district Lead Volunteer role at the end of October, following years of dedicated service.

Pete played a crucial role in keeping Scouting going through the Covid‑19 pandemic, helping Groups adapt to lockdowns, online programmes, and new safety requirements. He also supported volunteers through the national transformation of Scouting, guiding the District through significant structural and programme changes.

As Pete steps back, incoming District Lead Volunteer Roger Ambler will be leading a renewed focus on full inclusion and youth empowerment, ensuring young people have meaningful influence over how Scouting develops across Mansfield.

A key part of this new direction will be the launch of the Mansfield Scouts Youth Forum, an initiative for young people within the District aged 14–25. The Forum will give young members a direct voice in shaping district priorities, planning events, advising leaders, and driving youth‑led projects.

“Young people are not just the future of Mansfield Scouts — they are leaders right now.,” said Mr Ambler. “With over 1,000 young people involved locally, and with Scouting being fully inclusive, it’s vital that their voices shape our direction. The Youth Forum and new young adult roles will ensure their ideas, energy, and perspectives influence everything we do. We also want to welcome new young people into Scouting and encourage adults to support us in a wide range of roles — not just face‑to‑face leadership.”

Mansfield District Scouts has also announced a renewed focus on growth across the District, with particular attention on expanding Scouting provision in the Rainworth and Blidworth communities. 1st Rainworth and Blidworth Scout Group was a proud member of the District where Scouting once thrived but was forced to close several years ago.

The District’s leadership team will be engaging with schools, community organisations, and prospective volunteers to build sustainable, well‑supported sections that can once again serve Rainworth and Blidworth’s young people.

“These communities have huge potential”, added Mr Ambler. “We know there are families, young people, and prospective volunteers who would benefit from local Scouting opportunities. Our goal is to build sustainable, well‑supported provision that reflects the needs of Rainworth and Blidworth and becomes a proud part of our wider District.”

For more information or to get involved, contact [email protected] or follow https://www.facebook.com/mansfielddistrictscouts