For information call us on: 0845 300 1818

Recruitment: a fresh approach

Newsletter

Overview:

A newsletter is a good way of keeping parents informed about what is going on in the local Section. Many Scout Groups and Districts already do this to let parents know of any important dates that might be coming up and to make them aware of what their young people will be doing in the future. Why not include a section in your newsletter about ways in which parents can help?

Top tips:

• Plan your newsletter! Think carefully about what you want to include and stick to this. Do not include irrelevant information otherwise parents may avoid reading it in the future.
• Read the 'Everyday Adventure' pack, available to download from scouts.org.uk. It gives hints and tips about creating lots of different documents including local newsletters. By using the templates provided you can quickly and easily make an exciting newsletter using The Scout Association’s brand identity. It even has lots of pictures for you to use to brighten up your newsletter.
• Make your newsletter as readable as possible. Try to organise it into separate sections and make each section as concise as possible. Make use of the fonts, logos and clip art that are available to use on ScoutBase by following the link below.
• Include details of upcoming events with information about how parents can help on these specific days. If a parent can get involved in an event that interests them, they will get to know the young people and the leadership team and may become more willing to take on further responsibilities. This is a good way of getting parents to take that all important first step in helping out.
• Make the tone of your newsletter as friendly as possible. Encourage people to contact you if they would like any further information. This will allow people who are not sure if they can commit to the role to speak to someone and clarify further without making any commitments.
• Remember to promote flexibility in Scouting by suggesting role-sharing with friends and taking up a particular responsibility rather than the entire role. For example, a fund-raising or events team takes the pressure off one person. It means that people can help when they are available and that you have lots of people to share ideas with.

Case studies:

Be the first to tell us about your experience of using a newsletter to recruit parents or famiy members. Contact the Adult Support Team at adult.support@scout.org.uk or on 0845 300 1818.

Support material:

• Factsheet FS310515: Newsletters (Contents, standards and production of newsletters)

Download factsheets for free using the ‘ScoutBase Library’ link below or order a printed copy from the Information Centre (0845 300 1818)

Further Information (Links):

Campfire Circle scheme www.scouts.org.uk/campfirecircle
ScoutBase Clipart Library www.sbuk.org.uk/info.centre/catalog.php
ScoutBase Library (Factsheets)www.scoutbase.org.uk/library/hqdocs/facts/
Everyday Adventure resources www.scouts.org.uk/adventure