For Parents & Carers

Everything you need to know to support your young person's Scouting journey.

Online Scout Manager

We use Online Scout Manager (OSM) to manage attendance, events, badges and payments. As a parent, you can log into the OSM Parent Portal to:

View and sign up for upcoming events and camps
See your child's badge progress
Update your contact details
Manage payments and subscriptions
Give consent for activities and photos

First time logging in?

1 Your section leader will send you an email invitation from OSM
2 Click the link in the email to create your parent account
3 Set your password and you're in — you can also download the OSM app

Haven't received an invitation? Contact your section leader or email info@1stforresscouts.co.uk

Practical Information

Uniform

Each section has its own uniform. New members don't need to have uniform on their first night — there's no rush.

Beavers: Turquoise sweatshirt + group necker

Cubs: Green sweatshirt + group necker

Scouts: Teal shirt/blouse + group necker

Explorers: Beige shirt/blouse + group necker

Uniform can be purchased from the Scouts Shop or second-hand via your section leader.

What to bring each week

Full uniform (once you have it)
A water bottle
Outdoor shoes/wellies if going outside
A warm/waterproof layer (we go outside in all weather!)
A good attitude and a sense of adventure

Term dates

We broadly follow the school term dates. Sections may also run holiday activities and camps during breaks.

Your section leader will communicate specific dates and any changes via OSM. Keep an eye on the parent portal for the latest information.

Costs

We charge a termly subscription to cover running costs, insurance and badge materials. We keep costs as low as possible and no young person will be turned away because of cost.

Camps and special events may have an additional charge — these are communicated well in advance via OSM.

If cost is a concern, please speak to your section leader in confidence. We can help.

Frequently Asked Questions

My child is nervous about starting — is that normal?

Absolutely! Most children are nervous on their first night. Our leaders are experienced at welcoming new members and will make sure your child feels included from the start. They'll be paired with a buddy to help them settle in.

Do I need to stay during meetings?

For Beavers, parents are welcome to stay for the first session or two while your child settles in. After that, you're free to drop off and collect. For Cubs, Scouts and Explorers, drop-off and collection is the norm.

What if my child has additional needs?

Scouting is for everyone. Please let us know about any additional needs so we can make reasonable adjustments. Speak to your section leader before or on the first night.

Can my child try before committing?

Yes — new members are welcome to attend a few sessions before committing. There's no obligation until you're sure it's the right fit.

How do I pay subscriptions?

Payments are managed through Online Scout Manager. You'll receive an invoice via the parent portal and can pay by bank transfer or card.

What happens in bad weather?

We go outside in all weather — that's part of the adventure! For extreme conditions, we'll move activities indoors to the hall. Please make sure your child has appropriate clothing.

Still have questions?

We're always happy to help. Get in touch and we'll get back to you.