The Scouts in Buckinghamshire reported an increase in the number of children and young people taking part.

The Scouts’ own figures show an increase of 11 per cent across the Scouts aged four to seventeen.

Currently the Bucks Scouts waiting list has nearly 3800 children.

James Palin, lead volunteer for Bucks Scouts said: “Since the restrictions were lifted, we have been inundated with requests for children to join.

“During lockdown many children were unable to participate in activities.”

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The “brilliant” volunteers came entertained the Scouts with virtual camps, reptiles via Zoom, Lego building and scavenger hunts at home during the pandemic, he said.

More volunteers are now needed so more youngsters can get involved.

He added: “Not only are we looking for people to work with children and young people, we are also looking for people to work in the background.

“Whatever time you can give us, we will find a role for you.”

The number of children in Beavers (boys and girls aged six to eight) has increased by over 22 per cent, with the numbers in Scouts (boys and girls aged 10 to 14) increasing by nearly 12 per cent. 

The activities the Scouts provide teach a range of skills young people benefit from throughout their lives, Mr Palin said. 

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"These will range from helping others and teambuilding skills, cooking, budgeting, leading a team and planning activities.

"We know that many of our younger volunteers have used their experience of being in Scouts to help them get into university, get apprenticeships, and job interviews.”

More information can be found at here.