Behaviour Policy

At 3rd Farnworth Scout Group we want every young person to enjoy Scouting in a safe, respectful and positive environment. Our Behaviour Policy helps everyone understand what is expected so that meetings remain fun and inclusive for all.

Our Code of Behaviour

  • Have fun — we come to Scouts to enjoy ourselves while respecting others and living by the Scout Promise and Law.
  • Attend regularly — young people should arrive on time and in clean uniform where possible.
  • Work as a team — everyone is expected to join in and support their Lodge, Six or Patrol.
  • Show respect — leaders and young people listen to each other and respect beliefs, opinions and belongings.
  • Use appropriate language — aggressive or inappropriate language (including swearing) is not acceptable.
  • No bullying — we have zero tolerance for bullying, harassment or unkind behaviour.
  • Follow instructions — young people must listen when leaders are speaking, especially during safety briefings.
  • Play fairly — accept decisions in games and activities with good grace.
  • Look after property — deliberate damage to equipment or venues may result in suspension.

Positive Behaviour

We actively recognise and encourage positive behaviour. This may include verbal praise, Lodge/Six/Patrol points, and increased opportunities for responsibility and adventurous activities.

Behaviour Warning System

If behaviour falls below expectations, leaders will use the following stepped approach.

Verbal Warning

The young person will be asked to stop the behaviour and reminded what will happen if it continues. Examples include persistent disruption, ignoring instructions, or refusal to follow game rules.

Yellow Card

If behaviour continues, a Yellow Card will be issued.

  • The incident will be recorded by the Section Leader
  • Parents/guardians will be informed
  • The young person will sit out for 10 minutes
  • The Group Lead Volunteer will be notified

Examples may include threatening language, challenging a leader’s authority, or careless damage to property.

Red Card

If a second Yellow Card is received in the same meeting, or for serious incidents, a Red Card will be issued.

  • The young person will take no further part in that meeting
  • Parents/guardians will be informed as soon as practical
  • The Group Lead Volunteer will be notified
  • Parents may be asked to collect their child early

Serious incidents that may lead directly to a Red Card include bullying, physical aggression, vandalism, or deliberate defiance where safety is at risk.

Suspension

A Red Card automatically results in suspension from the next meeting. Depending on circumstances, this may be longer. A return plan will be agreed between leaders and parents before the young person comes back.

Repeated Concerns

If a young person receives four Yellow Cards within a rolling six-month period, this will be treated as a Red Card suspension.

Three Red Cards may lead to formal exclusion proceedings in line with Scout policy.

Appeals and Support

We operate an open-door policy and encourage parents/carers to speak with the leadership team if they wish to discuss behaviour or any concerns.

Data Handling

Records of Yellow Cards are kept for six months. Red Card records are retained while the young person remains a member of the Group. Information is only shared with relevant leaders and the family.