How Scout groups across Northampton stay in touch despite lockdown

Scout groups across Northampton have been finding ways of keeping in touch during lockdown, despite the fact they cannot meet in person.

1st Hardingstone is the largest Scout group in Northamptonshire with about 130 children and 20 volunteer leaders and supporters.

Vicky Taylor, from 1st Hardingstone, said it was a shock when Scout meetings were stopped in March when lockdown began.

"It was all very sudden, and very sad. We didn't want to do to stop the meetings but we obviously had to - no-one knew then how long it was going to be for," Vicky said.

Since then, the volunteer leaders have been working hard to ensure the children kept in touch.

"All the groups have been doing virtual Scouting online. We have done lots of different things - we had a virtual camp out for VE Day with everyone in their own gardens," she said.

Group meetings have also been held in Zoom and private WhatsApp groups have been set up to post messages about different activities.

"We have carried on over the school holidays - normal face to face Scouting would have stopped - but we have carried on. It's being really nice for the young people to have constant contact. It has had a positive impact on mental health," Vicky said.

Vicky said everyone had been amazing during lockdown, but she wanted to particularly praise the leaders who are also key workers.

"Some of the leaders are key workers and they have still been volunteering while dealing with everything else. They have all been amazing," Vicky added.