St John needs help with growing youth groups

Monday 04 March 2019

More volunteer youth leaders are needed to help with an increasing number of children taking part in Badgers and Cadets with St John Guernsey.

They help with the smooth running of weekly meetings, which include first aid training, team-building skills, games and other activities.

Badgers is the junior section of St John, for children aged 6-10 years, while Cadets is for older children and teenagers aged 10-18 years.

Badgers has a 'lively programme of activities', including first aid, communication, the environment and the community. The children can also learn about the history of St John and the importance of healthy and active lifestyles, while Cadets also get first aid training as well as personal development, creativity, communication, service, lifestyle and community. The older children also work towards achieving their Grand Prior Award.

St John Guernsey’s Chief Operating Officer, Nikki Harrison said: “Our Badger and Cadet groups are flourishing at the moment and we have experienced an increase in demand for both age groups, but the popularity means that now are almost at the stage of having to put names on a waiting list.” 

Previous experience is not essential as volunteers complete an induction course and will be given training in first aid and other skills. All new helpers will be required to undergo police checks before starting any work with young people.

Ms Harrison says; “volunteering with St John can be really rewarding as you watch the children build self-confidence and learn new skills. As well as supporting the young people St John also supports volunteers who want to develop their own skills and give something back to the community.”

To find out more about volunteering as a youth leader email sally.byrne@stjohn.gg